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
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
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!
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!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
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:
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
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
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
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
Monday, August 25, 2008
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
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, August 24, 2008
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
Kiko
Friday, August 22, 2008
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
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
Thursday, August 21, 2008
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
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
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.
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
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
Monday, August 18, 2008
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
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
To Grandmother's House we Go!
Remember when travelling to grandmother's house was such a thrill....well when you are 9 years old and don't mind sitting in the back seat of a beatle-bug car with your brother and newborn baby sister in the middle and a 1000 miles ahead of you....it was fun....Where oh where did my mother pack the luggage in that thing? Wasn't the engine in the rear and the front hood just an itty bitty of a trunk?
Well, we've come a long way baby! Now, just my toiletries will take that much room. And so, for my friends who have not yet started to pack, I offer this advice: Are you going to a family picnic, or are you seeing the most fabulous sights in the world which, by the way let me remind you, will be captured forever and ever on your SD chip....so be a diva if you dare. My SIL is the chicest dresser; always has the right thing for the right place. But beware if you see her suitcase for a 3 day weekend....oh my gosh. Can you say, hernia anyone? I wonder how much she has flown since the recent airline weight changes? Life does have trade-offs! And I share that just so I don't look so consumptiously spoiled with my one large rolling checked bag and my yet to be determined "emergency clothes" bag with jewelry (fabulous lia sophia of course), essential cosmetics, drugs (I say that kindly and simply because the word prescriptions is JUST tooooo long, but there you go I had to spell it out anyway), the otc meds, trip documents, a book and magazine to while away the unsleepable hours, AND the purse.
And, I heard there are never enough hangers in the cruise cabin closets, so throw in some from the cleaners that have yet to be returned, how about a crushable hat, an over-the-door shoe bag for who knows whatever will fit, etc. etc.
This trip is definitely not the way to grandmother's house. I just stole a glance at my photos from my last trip to London and I definitely know what I will NOT pack....and where did that hair color come from? Yuk. My last trip, a week in length, and I was able to pack in a 24" roll aboard (could have been, but did check it for ease)....so what has changed in the few years since that last trip I ponder. Okay, justification again....London to Rome; could be cloudy rainy, cold, warm, hot, depending on the port. More justification.....elegant night dining, poolside lounges, guilt trips to the spa to stave off pounds, daytime at sea, daytime in ports. Now I feel better, don't you? So pack away, and just make sure you can haul your load!
Have a great day!
Kiko
Well, we've come a long way baby! Now, just my toiletries will take that much room. And so, for my friends who have not yet started to pack, I offer this advice: Are you going to a family picnic, or are you seeing the most fabulous sights in the world which, by the way let me remind you, will be captured forever and ever on your SD chip....so be a diva if you dare. My SIL is the chicest dresser; always has the right thing for the right place. But beware if you see her suitcase for a 3 day weekend....oh my gosh. Can you say, hernia anyone? I wonder how much she has flown since the recent airline weight changes? Life does have trade-offs! And I share that just so I don't look so consumptiously spoiled with my one large rolling checked bag and my yet to be determined "emergency clothes" bag with jewelry (fabulous lia sophia of course), essential cosmetics, drugs (I say that kindly and simply because the word prescriptions is JUST tooooo long, but there you go I had to spell it out anyway), the otc meds, trip documents, a book and magazine to while away the unsleepable hours, AND the purse.
And, I heard there are never enough hangers in the cruise cabin closets, so throw in some from the cleaners that have yet to be returned, how about a crushable hat, an over-the-door shoe bag for who knows whatever will fit, etc. etc.
This trip is definitely not the way to grandmother's house. I just stole a glance at my photos from my last trip to London and I definitely know what I will NOT pack....and where did that hair color come from? Yuk. My last trip, a week in length, and I was able to pack in a 24" roll aboard (could have been, but did check it for ease)....so what has changed in the few years since that last trip I ponder. Okay, justification again....London to Rome; could be cloudy rainy, cold, warm, hot, depending on the port. More justification.....elegant night dining, poolside lounges, guilt trips to the spa to stave off pounds, daytime at sea, daytime in ports. Now I feel better, don't you? So pack away, and just make sure you can haul your load!
Have a great day!
Kiko
Sunday, August 17, 2008
I heard it thru the Grapevine!
I love recommendations, don't you? So here are two praised ports, of which prior to planning this trip I wouldn't have given the time of day. With sincere apologies to Vigo and Lisbon for my ignorance:
Vigo - This port will be on our own and we plan a walking tour of the old town. Great recommendation from a CruiseCritic reviewer "coxswain" who spent a wonderful afternoon with friendly people at Casa Samaniego on thier own, walking straight from the pier to old town. Did someone say FREE sangria with all tapas orders? hmmmm. I hear to follow the buses to the large department store for shopping. Aha, women of the world unite! Sounds like we will need to rest our weary feet after this day with a caffe con leche. Don't you want to start practicing that phrase right now...."honey, will you bring me a caffe con leche?" Try it on for size tonight and let me know if it was successful!!
Lisbon - Must see, must eat from "Photographia" on CruiseCritic in his own words: "The custard tarts can be found all over Portugal. They look like little creme brulees, in a tart shell. Even if they don't particularly look aesthetically pleasing to you, they taste incredible. Every restaurant and pastry shop sells them, and while undoubtedly some shops will be better than others, I certainly never had a bad tart in the entire two weeks I spent in Portugal!" Well, we have not 2 weeks but 8 hours on a tour of the romantic castles and scenery. I am finding this may be the surprise city of the itinerary. And from Paula L of Tulsa, who turned me on to this tour in the first place, she swears the "cheesecake" in Sintra is unlike ours in the USA, but a MUST, MUST, so much a MUST that she wishes she had taken two pieces to go instead of one!!! And this on an 'all you can possibly stuff in even when you don't need it, by golly you paid for it' cruise???? Mighty fine compliment indeed.
More grapes to come!
Happy Monday! Kiko
Vigo - This port will be on our own and we plan a walking tour of the old town. Great recommendation from a CruiseCritic reviewer "coxswain" who spent a wonderful afternoon with friendly people at Casa Samaniego on thier own, walking straight from the pier to old town. Did someone say FREE sangria with all tapas orders? hmmmm. I hear to follow the buses to the large department store for shopping. Aha, women of the world unite! Sounds like we will need to rest our weary feet after this day with a caffe con leche. Don't you want to start practicing that phrase right now...."honey, will you bring me a caffe con leche?" Try it on for size tonight and let me know if it was successful!!
Lisbon - Must see, must eat from "Photographia" on CruiseCritic in his own words: "The custard tarts can be found all over Portugal. They look like little creme brulees, in a tart shell. Even if they don't particularly look aesthetically pleasing to you, they taste incredible. Every restaurant and pastry shop sells them, and while undoubtedly some shops will be better than others, I certainly never had a bad tart in the entire two weeks I spent in Portugal!" Well, we have not 2 weeks but 8 hours on a tour of the romantic castles and scenery. I am finding this may be the surprise city of the itinerary. And from Paula L of Tulsa, who turned me on to this tour in the first place, she swears the "cheesecake" in Sintra is unlike ours in the USA, but a MUST, MUST, so much a MUST that she wishes she had taken two pieces to go instead of one!!! And this on an 'all you can possibly stuff in even when you don't need it, by golly you paid for it' cruise???? Mighty fine compliment indeed.
More grapes to come!
Happy Monday! Kiko
World Weather
Check out the World Weather gadget on my blog!
See the word "Setting"? Click there and then type in your city. If the city comes up as Celsius even though the bullet is in "F" just go back and click "C" then "F" and the temperature will be recognizable to you!
Today: London high 68 degrees, Lisbon 75 degrees, Barcelona 82 degrees, Rome 83 degrees.
See why packing is so difficult?
See the word "Setting"? Click there and then type in your city. If the city comes up as Celsius even though the bullet is in "F" just go back and click "C" then "F" and the temperature will be recognizable to you!
Today: London high 68 degrees, Lisbon 75 degrees, Barcelona 82 degrees, Rome 83 degrees.
See why packing is so difficult?
3 weeks and counting
I'm scouring some great websites this morning. Naturally, I am checking Cruisecritic.com every day but when there are so many topics where do you begin? For months now I have been gleaning great info from fellow guests at the Boards section which requires a registration. From there go to Roll Call, find your cruise line, then scroll until you find your departure date. Since our cruise is on Carnival, I'm also looking each evening at John Heald's blog as he is our CD (cruise director) and taking a look at his website will prepare you for life on board, as he frequently shares guest complaints and hoorays (of course always protecting personal identities)!
I've recently discovered CruiseDiva and plan to incorporate some of her checklist details into my own checklist that was shaped from other travel experiences as well as those from CruiseCritic. It's hard to imagine how everything on these lists will make it into my luggage and still allow for clothes. New addition will be duck tape, reluctantly I might add. I may have to even use it BEFORE I depart, as here is the current state of wardrobe affairs in my guest room.
Main suitcase is on the floor, zipped wide open, stacks of clothing inside. Result of bed? Now proudly allowing for one guest, as half the bed is available for a slim body. Plans are to decide on the carry-on bag selection this week. I'd love to do add my matching small bag on wheels. But that would mean I would need use the the piggy-back strap to link them together once I get off the plane, and while that is oh so convenient for pulling, it is horrible for pulling over cobblestones or steps (like on the tube or train). And then there is the unhooking when loading it on luggage racks on the train....just too cumbersome. The ladies bag to sit on top of the large roll-on is chic looking and meets the travel requirements. But it certainly doesn't fill the need of carry-on cosmetics, jewelry, medicines, and a change of clothing. So there's the dilemma. I usually like an open tote to place a small flat purse, laptop, magazines, jewelry roll, and the quart-size bag of liquids. My fear lies in the possibility that the airline will say "no, you must check that one too madam"....then what?
Now, I must say, have no pity for me, I am a tote nut.....so, I'll go searching in the deep recesses of my closet for a tote with zipper and although it probably won't MATCH or be cruise chic, I am sure I will find one with a zip. So, task for this week is to decide on luggage pieces, "pretend" pack my clothes, "pretend" pack DH's clothes, and then get ready to HALF each of our clothes into each other's suitcases, with the hope that if any suitcases are lost it won't be both of ours. Ah, and yes, update the checklists and see what can be checked off!
Have a great Sunday!
Kiko
I've recently discovered CruiseDiva and plan to incorporate some of her checklist details into my own checklist that was shaped from other travel experiences as well as those from CruiseCritic. It's hard to imagine how everything on these lists will make it into my luggage and still allow for clothes. New addition will be duck tape, reluctantly I might add. I may have to even use it BEFORE I depart, as here is the current state of wardrobe affairs in my guest room.
Main suitcase is on the floor, zipped wide open, stacks of clothing inside. Result of bed? Now proudly allowing for one guest, as half the bed is available for a slim body. Plans are to decide on the carry-on bag selection this week. I'd love to do add my matching small bag on wheels. But that would mean I would need use the the piggy-back strap to link them together once I get off the plane, and while that is oh so convenient for pulling, it is horrible for pulling over cobblestones or steps (like on the tube or train). And then there is the unhooking when loading it on luggage racks on the train....just too cumbersome. The ladies bag to sit on top of the large roll-on is chic looking and meets the travel requirements. But it certainly doesn't fill the need of carry-on cosmetics, jewelry, medicines, and a change of clothing. So there's the dilemma. I usually like an open tote to place a small flat purse, laptop, magazines, jewelry roll, and the quart-size bag of liquids. My fear lies in the possibility that the airline will say "no, you must check that one too madam"....then what?
Now, I must say, have no pity for me, I am a tote nut.....so, I'll go searching in the deep recesses of my closet for a tote with zipper and although it probably won't MATCH or be cruise chic, I am sure I will find one with a zip. So, task for this week is to decide on luggage pieces, "pretend" pack my clothes, "pretend" pack DH's clothes, and then get ready to HALF each of our clothes into each other's suitcases, with the hope that if any suitcases are lost it won't be both of ours. Ah, and yes, update the checklists and see what can be checked off!
Have a great Sunday!
Kiko
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Cruising buddies - on board Splendor
Happy faces you will see on board Splendor in 27 days! A few more technical issues on the other photos....maybe they have been "posted" too much elsewhere. Hee. hee.
Getting Around
The last two nights my DD (cruise talk for dear dog) has not been feeling her finest. She had a weekend trip to the spa, which is my word for "kennel", and although she came out happy and healthy, a few days later she had the blahs. Well a little more than the blahs, drinking water excessively, losing patches of fur on her side, under a leg, and you know where at the rump. We've been thru this before with our wrinkly rescue, but it always is of concern. So, the question is, delayed reaction from separation anxiety, and if so, is it from longing for the other four legged friends she left behind, or is she trying to tell me she will throw herself into a blue funk if I leave her again. At any rate, she's had a slight fever and I am using low dosage coated aspirin attached to a treat with a smear of peanut butter. She glady accepts it. We use the same dosage when she has a bout of swollen hocks. Cause unknown.
So looking forward to the 12 day cruise with friends, and this weekend is devoted to paperwork....I won't even go there. Okay, I will. I need a secretary, an admin assistant or a "wife".....maybe I better not say wife, as that would imply I am a bad one. Maybe I'm in denial, but I just cannot imagine how the average person stays bill-organized. That means I am bill-challenged. Omitting.....oops, freudian writing slip.....Admitting is a first step....I just don't know how many steps are in this program. Now, I must say I am proud of my online banking skills and money management....but send me a paper bill in the mail and I will lose it. I blame the 15 pieces of mail I get daily (15 x 7 = 105 pieces on average per week you see). The postcards, the mailers, the flyers....those folded and at my door or on the mailbox flag...urrrr), the various other junk mail pieces, some of which, and here is where I fall off the wagon, tempt me to keep JUST in case I might need them. I made a big leap forward last year when I hung a bulletin board in the garage. A space for a calendar, that I even marked with my party dates so DH (yes, dear hubby) would know where I was when he got home and saw I was nowhere to be found. A space for a baggie with coupons, a space for the eye exam reminder postcard, the oil change coupon, the pool passes (never used, but I sent for them just in case), the Saturday nights I can expect to see fireworks from my deck.....well above said bulletin board needs its own secretary too! Good thing it can't speak. How does everyone else do it? I never see a clue when I visit other friends' homes. I have the shredder next to where I open the mail....and I have the waste can just a short throw away too. I do not get around the bills very well. Oh to be Donald Trump with his entourage of assistants.
But I do get around the internet very well and have become very informed about travelling abroad; have checklists will use! But, I am procrastinating and must head to the dungeon, uh, I mean, home office to sort thru every thing I need to do before the NEXT 3 Saturdays pass me by. I've blown the "I was up all night with DD" excuse, and DD is resting nicely. So, until tomorrow, when I must report FINI as I do want to get back to my mile-high clothes on my guest bed begging to be chosen as part of the fun approaching journey.
Until then, good morning, and good-day!
So looking forward to the 12 day cruise with friends, and this weekend is devoted to paperwork....I won't even go there. Okay, I will. I need a secretary, an admin assistant or a "wife".....maybe I better not say wife, as that would imply I am a bad one. Maybe I'm in denial, but I just cannot imagine how the average person stays bill-organized. That means I am bill-challenged. Omitting.....oops, freudian writing slip.....Admitting is a first step....I just don't know how many steps are in this program. Now, I must say I am proud of my online banking skills and money management....but send me a paper bill in the mail and I will lose it. I blame the 15 pieces of mail I get daily (15 x 7 = 105 pieces on average per week you see). The postcards, the mailers, the flyers....those folded and at my door or on the mailbox flag...urrrr), the various other junk mail pieces, some of which, and here is where I fall off the wagon, tempt me to keep JUST in case I might need them. I made a big leap forward last year when I hung a bulletin board in the garage. A space for a calendar, that I even marked with my party dates so DH (yes, dear hubby) would know where I was when he got home and saw I was nowhere to be found. A space for a baggie with coupons, a space for the eye exam reminder postcard, the oil change coupon, the pool passes (never used, but I sent for them just in case), the Saturday nights I can expect to see fireworks from my deck.....well above said bulletin board needs its own secretary too! Good thing it can't speak. How does everyone else do it? I never see a clue when I visit other friends' homes. I have the shredder next to where I open the mail....and I have the waste can just a short throw away too. I do not get around the bills very well. Oh to be Donald Trump with his entourage of assistants.
But I do get around the internet very well and have become very informed about travelling abroad; have checklists will use! But, I am procrastinating and must head to the dungeon, uh, I mean, home office to sort thru every thing I need to do before the NEXT 3 Saturdays pass me by. I've blown the "I was up all night with DD" excuse, and DD is resting nicely. So, until tomorrow, when I must report FINI as I do want to get back to my mile-high clothes on my guest bed begging to be chosen as part of the fun approaching journey.
Until then, good morning, and good-day!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Teaching an Old Dog new tricks
Just one month to the reunion trip 8 months in the making! One month until embarkation, one month minus 3 days until stepping on the plane en route to London. I have to admit, I am a little bit nervous.....excited and happy, but given the distance from home and length of trip, I know there are plenty of opportunities for anything to go awry. Now, mind you, I am one of the most optimistic persons this side of the Mississippi, yet I know for me being prepared helps envelope me in a warm, satisfying, fuzzy feeling that I have done all I can to skirt any obvious pitfalls of a new and strange environment unlike home. Yet, that is exactly why I anticipate the journey......the thrill of broadening my scope of the world and the lingering memories which will forever change my future.
So here I sit this morning, sipping on my hot tea and munching on my crumpet. Yes, the crumpet I first ate so many years ago in England still makes its way into my morning routine from time to time, and with it the marvelous memories of my first venture into Britain. Give me a slightly overcast day, some butter quickly melting in the pores and jam to smooth the surface, and I am a very happy lass! No longer do have I have to search high and low for this imported treat now that we have specialty and grocery stores with gourmet selections. Aha.....see how quickly this simple breakfast transports me! Well, it isn't cloudy today, it's a glorious sunny day and my garden is vibrant with greens, tipped with burgandy, and awash with touches of the blue-green evergreens....a cornucopia of nature's palette.
Now, I really, really don't like the word "old" unless it is referring to antique furnishings, precious china, or vintage photos. But here I am beginning my first blog, the first day, the first paragraph, and the first tryst, or perhaps a lifelong affair, with a medium that has made its way into our lives, personalized and touching us when we want it, how we want it, the content we desire....the blog. But new to me it is, and bear with me as I venture into new territory. Nervous? Of course, but defying the saying that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Lookout blogspot here I come!
So here I sit this morning, sipping on my hot tea and munching on my crumpet. Yes, the crumpet I first ate so many years ago in England still makes its way into my morning routine from time to time, and with it the marvelous memories of my first venture into Britain. Give me a slightly overcast day, some butter quickly melting in the pores and jam to smooth the surface, and I am a very happy lass! No longer do have I have to search high and low for this imported treat now that we have specialty and grocery stores with gourmet selections. Aha.....see how quickly this simple breakfast transports me! Well, it isn't cloudy today, it's a glorious sunny day and my garden is vibrant with greens, tipped with burgandy, and awash with touches of the blue-green evergreens....a cornucopia of nature's palette.
Now, I really, really don't like the word "old" unless it is referring to antique furnishings, precious china, or vintage photos. But here I am beginning my first blog, the first day, the first paragraph, and the first tryst, or perhaps a lifelong affair, with a medium that has made its way into our lives, personalized and touching us when we want it, how we want it, the content we desire....the blog. But new to me it is, and bear with me as I venture into new territory. Nervous? Of course, but defying the saying that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Lookout blogspot here I come!
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