Yesterdays news!!
Wednesday 18 April - Kagoshima Japan
We have just arrived back on the boat after a very interesting day in Kagoshima. We went first to a Samurai village. Here we were able to walk through the gardens of private houses. They were really stunning- simple yet very elegant.
After the village we went to the Kamikaze Pilot Peace Museum. Whilst the Japanese honour the heroism of the Kamikazi pilots, the museum is about ensuring that there are never again able to be brain washed into believing that Kamikaze missions makes them into a deity- at least that was our guides view.
Very sobering that over 1000 young pilots took off from this area on kamikaze missions.
After lunch went to Sengan-an Garden. This was the summer villa of the Shimadzu family. A beautiful garden and history. Whilst we were at the garden, the volcano Sakura erupted. Fortunately the wind was blowing in the right direction or we would have been showered with ash.
Tomorrow we head to Nagasaki. Sure to be an interesting day also.
I will put some links to todays places on the link page.
Greg and Daylle
We have just arrived back on the boat after a very interesting day in Kagoshima. We went first to a Samurai village. Here we were able to walk through the gardens of private houses. They were really stunning- simple yet very elegant.
After the village we went to the Kamikaze Pilot Peace Museum. Whilst the Japanese honour the heroism of the Kamikazi pilots, the museum is about ensuring that there are never again able to be brain washed into believing that Kamikaze missions makes them into a deity- at least that was our guides view.
Very sobering that over 1000 young pilots took off from this area on kamikaze missions.
After lunch went to Sengan-an Garden. This was the summer villa of the Shimadzu family. A beautiful garden and history. Whilst we were at the garden, the volcano Sakura erupted. Fortunately the wind was blowing in the right direction or we would have been showered with ash.
Tomorrow we head to Nagasaki. Sure to be an interesting day also.
I will put some links to todays places on the link page.
Greg and Daylle
Tuesday 17th April
At sea between Kobe and Kagoshima.
A pretty relaxing day pottering around the ship. Went to an interesting (at least for Greg) lecture on plate techtonics and earthquakes particularly around the Pacific rim ie where we are sailing.
Our first Formal Dining night was great. Beautiful stringed quartet playing with a very elegant meal followed by a live show- singers and dancers- very enjoyable.
Time for bed, ready for sightseeing in Kagoshima.
Sorry no photos today- more tomorrow.
Greg and Daylle
At sea between Kobe and Kagoshima.
A pretty relaxing day pottering around the ship. Went to an interesting (at least for Greg) lecture on plate techtonics and earthquakes particularly around the Pacific rim ie where we are sailing.
Our first Formal Dining night was great. Beautiful stringed quartet playing with a very elegant meal followed by a live show- singers and dancers- very enjoyable.
Time for bed, ready for sightseeing in Kagoshima.
Sorry no photos today- more tomorrow.
Greg and Daylle
Sunday 15th
Left Tokyo this morning by Bullet Train-Shinkansen Express Nazomi 109.
Departed Tokyo 11:50, arriving at Shin-Kobe at 14:41. Not sure the actual distance, but the train speeds smoothly along. Leaves he Australian rattlers for dead!
Toko Central station is huge. Fortunately Tokyo tourguide gave us detailed instructions to give to Taxi drive and Station staff. Having got the taxi to the right entrance the rest was easy.
Left Tokyo this morning by Bullet Train-Shinkansen Express Nazomi 109.
Departed Tokyo 11:50, arriving at Shin-Kobe at 14:41. Not sure the actual distance, but the train speeds smoothly along. Leaves he Australian rattlers for dead!
Toko Central station is huge. Fortunately Tokyo tourguide gave us detailed instructions to give to Taxi drive and Station staff. Having got the taxi to the right entrance the rest was easy.
Monday 16th April
After uploading yesterdays page I realised that in the enthusiasm of boarding ship, I hadn't finished typing up the highlights. WiFi is a little difficult. Whilst the ship is docked in Japan, the ship satellite WiFi cannot be used. It is pretty expensive though USD 24 per hour! and I believe slow.
We arrived on board about 3:00, after a great Bullet train ride. 2:40mins for about 500klms I think. Fantastic comfortable carriage and so smooth.
Checking in was a breeze- about 20 checkin stations and we were the only ones checking in at the time.
After the compulsory lifeboat drill- learning which lifeboat we are assigned to, time to explore the ship. It really is a lovely ship. Sure there are a few areas where another coat of paint would inprove it, but overall we were pleasantly surprised at the high standard. Over the next few weeks we will take a few photos of the ship decorations and facilities.
We had a quick afternoon tea, then went to an interdenominational church service led by a very, very old retired US airforce chaplain. Pretty dull- a commented he was a traditionalist rather then following the new fad of Contemporary services!!
Our first dinner in the Main Dining room was fantastic. Not overly big meals but very well presented. Similarly for breakfast.
Today we went on a tour of Osaka.
Osaka Castle was great. Very interesting and pretty with the Cherry Blossom around it. We then drove through parts of the city, before lunch on the 38 floor of a high rise building. great Japanese lunch again.
After lunch, visits to a Temple and Shopping area.
Temple was good, but we think we are templed out!!!
The shopping area was interesting. See more descriptions on photo page.
Greg and Daylle
After uploading yesterdays page I realised that in the enthusiasm of boarding ship, I hadn't finished typing up the highlights. WiFi is a little difficult. Whilst the ship is docked in Japan, the ship satellite WiFi cannot be used. It is pretty expensive though USD 24 per hour! and I believe slow.
We arrived on board about 3:00, after a great Bullet train ride. 2:40mins for about 500klms I think. Fantastic comfortable carriage and so smooth.
Checking in was a breeze- about 20 checkin stations and we were the only ones checking in at the time.
After the compulsory lifeboat drill- learning which lifeboat we are assigned to, time to explore the ship. It really is a lovely ship. Sure there are a few areas where another coat of paint would inprove it, but overall we were pleasantly surprised at the high standard. Over the next few weeks we will take a few photos of the ship decorations and facilities.
We had a quick afternoon tea, then went to an interdenominational church service led by a very, very old retired US airforce chaplain. Pretty dull- a commented he was a traditionalist rather then following the new fad of Contemporary services!!
Our first dinner in the Main Dining room was fantastic. Not overly big meals but very well presented. Similarly for breakfast.
Today we went on a tour of Osaka.
Osaka Castle was great. Very interesting and pretty with the Cherry Blossom around it. We then drove through parts of the city, before lunch on the 38 floor of a high rise building. great Japanese lunch again.
After lunch, visits to a Temple and Shopping area.
Temple was good, but we think we are templed out!!!
The shopping area was interesting. See more descriptions on photo page.
Greg and Daylle
Update Saturday 14th
Today we travelled to Hakone near Mt Fuji
Unfortunately a wet day and heavy cloud limited the visability.
We got away to an early start and arrived at Lake Ashi in goodtime or a walk around the recreated feudal check point. This checked people who tried to escape from the area or who were carrying forbidden communications.
We then went or a ruise around the lake. This lake is at 750 m above sea level, fed by melting snow and rain. Unfrtunately the spectacular montan scenery was shrouded in cloud and the rain forced us insidethe boat cabin.
After another fantastic Japanese lunch we caught the Ropeway (cable way gondolas) upto Boiling Valley. This is a volcanic area with sulphur fumes spewing out ofthe ground. We had limited walkingaround due to the very cold wind and rain. Not to worry- thats one of the hazards of travelling. Makes us sympathetic of people coming upto Three Sisters!
We are loving the Japenese food- with there myriad small dishes.
Had an intersting dinner tonight, dumplings, pork and kimchee, tempura chicken and finishing with homemade ice cream bread- sweet bread roll filled with ice cream.
Good thing we are walking so much.
Greg and Daylle
Today we travelled to Hakone near Mt Fuji
Unfortunately a wet day and heavy cloud limited the visability.
We got away to an early start and arrived at Lake Ashi in goodtime or a walk around the recreated feudal check point. This checked people who tried to escape from the area or who were carrying forbidden communications.
We then went or a ruise around the lake. This lake is at 750 m above sea level, fed by melting snow and rain. Unfrtunately the spectacular montan scenery was shrouded in cloud and the rain forced us insidethe boat cabin.
After another fantastic Japanese lunch we caught the Ropeway (cable way gondolas) upto Boiling Valley. This is a volcanic area with sulphur fumes spewing out ofthe ground. We had limited walkingaround due to the very cold wind and rain. Not to worry- thats one of the hazards of travelling. Makes us sympathetic of people coming upto Three Sisters!
We are loving the Japenese food- with there myriad small dishes.
Had an intersting dinner tonight, dumplings, pork and kimchee, tempura chicken and finishing with homemade ice cream bread- sweet bread roll filled with ice cream.
Good thing we are walking so much.
Greg and Daylle
Thursday 19th April Nagasaki Japan
After a smooth overnight sail from Kagoshima, we arrived in Nagasaki at 8:00am, ready for an 8:30 departure on our tour along the coast to Shimabara.
First stop Shimabarra castle. Another castle which had not survived from its former days, but reconstructed about 50 years ago. Interesting place- Shimbara was the first etablishment of Christian settlement with the arrival in 16th Century of Francis Xaviera Jesuit priest. At one time most of the region claimed to be christian.
After the Shimabarra rebellion of 1637 - which was primarily a rebellion against unjust taxation, the Christians were considered to be a threat and Chritianity was outlawed and many were killed and persecuted until most of Christianity was eliminated. This coincided with Japan closing the country to foreign influence for over 200 years.
We also visited Shimabarra Samurai Village. Only a couple of original style homes, but again the gardens and walled streets are impressive.
For me one of the days highlights was the visit to an area where the houses had been buried by volcanic debris following Mt Fugen eruption in 1991 ans subsequent landslide in 1992.
Greg and Daylle
After a smooth overnight sail from Kagoshima, we arrived in Nagasaki at 8:00am, ready for an 8:30 departure on our tour along the coast to Shimabara.
First stop Shimabarra castle. Another castle which had not survived from its former days, but reconstructed about 50 years ago. Interesting place- Shimbara was the first etablishment of Christian settlement with the arrival in 16th Century of Francis Xaviera Jesuit priest. At one time most of the region claimed to be christian.
After the Shimabarra rebellion of 1637 - which was primarily a rebellion against unjust taxation, the Christians were considered to be a threat and Chritianity was outlawed and many were killed and persecuted until most of Christianity was eliminated. This coincided with Japan closing the country to foreign influence for over 200 years.
We also visited Shimabarra Samurai Village. Only a couple of original style homes, but again the gardens and walled streets are impressive.
For me one of the days highlights was the visit to an area where the houses had been buried by volcanic debris following Mt Fugen eruption in 1991 ans subsequent landslide in 1992.
Greg and Daylle
Friday 20th April Busan Korea
Arrived in Busan this morning.
A relatively quiet day - a city tour this morning. First stop Yongdusan Park, which is on a hill overlooking the central part of Busan.
The weather waspretty overcast and a bit of drizzle, but fortunately the rain held off. There is a tall observation tower, but we decided not to go up because of the haze and reduced visability.
After the park, we vistd the Fish Market. Whilst the sight of live fish swimming in bowls iscommon in Vietnam, there is a vast differenceto the market in Busan. Every day approx 150-180 tonnes of fish are auctioned and shipped around Korea.
Following the fish market we wanderered through the general market area. Lots of shops, didn't buy much.
After lunch we just walked around the area near the boat. Quite a few kilometres, but a relaxing time.
A few photos included under Korea.
Tomorrow is a day just sailing before we arrive in Vladivostok on Sunday morning.
Greg and Daylle.
Arrived in Busan this morning.
A relatively quiet day - a city tour this morning. First stop Yongdusan Park, which is on a hill overlooking the central part of Busan.
The weather waspretty overcast and a bit of drizzle, but fortunately the rain held off. There is a tall observation tower, but we decided not to go up because of the haze and reduced visability.
After the park, we vistd the Fish Market. Whilst the sight of live fish swimming in bowls iscommon in Vietnam, there is a vast differenceto the market in Busan. Every day approx 150-180 tonnes of fish are auctioned and shipped around Korea.
Following the fish market we wanderered through the general market area. Lots of shops, didn't buy much.
After lunch we just walked around the area near the boat. Quite a few kilometres, but a relaxing time.
A few photos included under Korea.
Tomorrow is a day just sailing before we arrive in Vladivostok on Sunday morning.
Greg and Daylle.
Saturday 21st April
On the seas between Busan Korea and Vladivostok Russia.
A nice quiet day of shipoard life. We had a one hour timeshift last night, so we had a good sleep in this morning. We have taken a likingto having our breakfast as well as dinner inthe Main Dining Room. Just a bit classier. Whilst the food in the buffet is good,it is nicer just to sit quietly an be waited upon.
There are lots of things to onboard - or sit and veg out reading etc. We are both going through books quickly.
We went to a lecture this morning on birds and marine life likely to be encountered. A very knowlageable naturalist.
Greg went to a digital photography workshop on retouching and fusing photos.
Tonight is another formal dining night - we'll get all dolled up. We re looking forward to these nights. Adds to the luxury and ambience of the boat.
Over the next few days I will add some photos from onboard the boat.
After Vladivostok tomorrow, we have anthr couple of days sailing north. As we go north, you can feel the temperature drop. But warm inside. Even around the pool is quite warm with the roof closed
On the seas between Busan Korea and Vladivostok Russia.
A nice quiet day of shipoard life. We had a one hour timeshift last night, so we had a good sleep in this morning. We have taken a likingto having our breakfast as well as dinner inthe Main Dining Room. Just a bit classier. Whilst the food in the buffet is good,it is nicer just to sit quietly an be waited upon.
There are lots of things to onboard - or sit and veg out reading etc. We are both going through books quickly.
We went to a lecture this morning on birds and marine life likely to be encountered. A very knowlageable naturalist.
Greg went to a digital photography workshop on retouching and fusing photos.
Tonight is another formal dining night - we'll get all dolled up. We re looking forward to these nights. Adds to the luxury and ambience of the boat.
Over the next few days I will add some photos from onboard the boat.
After Vladivostok tomorrow, we have anthr couple of days sailing north. As we go north, you can feel the temperature drop. But warm inside. Even around the pool is quite warm with the roof closed
Monday 23rd April -At Sea
Quiet day, lazing around the ship, listening to lectures, watching films, eating, sleeping. Ready for the same tomorrow.
Sunday 22nd April Vladivostok Russia
We docked at Vladivostok in the early hours of Sunday. They are very smooth at docking- didn't feel a thing. Woke up to look out onto the Terminal.
Unfortunately the Russian weather wasn't very welcoming. A temperature of about 8 degrees C, and steady rain.
We had arranged to do a walk around Vladivostok. Whilst weather was not ideal, we set out with our tour guide Anna and her sister Alex.
We explored some of the area around the waterfront and into the downtown area. The architecture is quite distinctive- the beautiful architecture of the Imperial period, contrasting with the drab and utilitarian Soviet boxes.
A lot of the buildings are in desparate need of renovation, but there is a bit of a renovation phase under way, and lots of buildings are covered in scaffolding.
We visited Vladivostok square, the location of major gatherings like May day.
Around the waterfront is the headquarters for the Pacific submarine fleet, and the submarine museum.
We visited the history museum, and souvenir shops etc, before heading back to the boat, pretty wet and starting to feel the cold. We intended going back out again, however the rain set in and we retreated to the Lido deck for lunch and the lounge for Cocktail and Irish Coffee!
Watched a movie in the cinema, before dinner and bed.
Greg and Daylle
Quiet day, lazing around the ship, listening to lectures, watching films, eating, sleeping. Ready for the same tomorrow.
Sunday 22nd April Vladivostok Russia
We docked at Vladivostok in the early hours of Sunday. They are very smooth at docking- didn't feel a thing. Woke up to look out onto the Terminal.
Unfortunately the Russian weather wasn't very welcoming. A temperature of about 8 degrees C, and steady rain.
We had arranged to do a walk around Vladivostok. Whilst weather was not ideal, we set out with our tour guide Anna and her sister Alex.
We explored some of the area around the waterfront and into the downtown area. The architecture is quite distinctive- the beautiful architecture of the Imperial period, contrasting with the drab and utilitarian Soviet boxes.
A lot of the buildings are in desparate need of renovation, but there is a bit of a renovation phase under way, and lots of buildings are covered in scaffolding.
We visited Vladivostok square, the location of major gatherings like May day.
Around the waterfront is the headquarters for the Pacific submarine fleet, and the submarine museum.
We visited the history museum, and souvenir shops etc, before heading back to the boat, pretty wet and starting to feel the cold. We intended going back out again, however the rain set in and we retreated to the Lido deck for lunch and the lounge for Cocktail and Irish Coffee!
Watched a movie in the cinema, before dinner and bed.
Greg and Daylle
Tuesday 24th April At Sea in the middle of Ice Flow
Early edition of todays update! We have struck serious sea ice this morning. Woke up to the site of ice all around us and the ship travelling very slow through the ice. After a couple of hours the Captain announced we were turning around and retracing our route back out through the ice.
It really sounds like this ice was unexpected. Or at least the extent and thickness was unexpected. This will cause significant delay and we don't yet know what the impact will be. Hopefully we don't have to skip some stops but i think this is likely.
The icearound is really beautiful. Now that we have retraced our route we are back into lighter ice with more water between!
I have created a page called Icebergs for some photos.
I believe there is a webcam available on the internet from the front of the ship, but I haven't been able to source the address. If anybody can find it online let me know and I will add a link.
Greg and Daylle
Early edition of todays update! We have struck serious sea ice this morning. Woke up to the site of ice all around us and the ship travelling very slow through the ice. After a couple of hours the Captain announced we were turning around and retracing our route back out through the ice.
It really sounds like this ice was unexpected. Or at least the extent and thickness was unexpected. This will cause significant delay and we don't yet know what the impact will be. Hopefully we don't have to skip some stops but i think this is likely.
The icearound is really beautiful. Now that we have retraced our route we are back into lighter ice with more water between!
I have created a page called Icebergs for some photos.
I believe there is a webcam available on the internet from the front of the ship, but I haven't been able to source the address. If anybody can find it online let me know and I will add a link.
Greg and Daylle
25th April Anzac Day At Sea
- Sea of Japan to the North Pacific
After turning around yesterday because of ice, we have now travelled around the Japanese island of Hokkaido and are entering the North Pacific Ocean.
Seas have been smooth and we have been able to cruise at 20 - 22 knots. Unfortunately even at this speed we have not been able to make up the time lost yesterday, so the Captain has had to cut Petropavlovsk in Russia from our itinerary. Instead we now head directly to Kodiak in Alaska.
This is a bit disappointing, we were keen to see a bit more of russia, particularly since Vladivostok was so wet when we were there. Still I understand the decision and in reality there wasn't any other option.
A quiet shipboard day today - listening to a few lectures, eating, walking, reading etc.
I have a bit of work I can do to while away a few hours.
I have updated the ships track, but a bit of track is missing from west coast of Hokkaido, but you can figure out where we went.
Greg
- Sea of Japan to the North Pacific
After turning around yesterday because of ice, we have now travelled around the Japanese island of Hokkaido and are entering the North Pacific Ocean.
Seas have been smooth and we have been able to cruise at 20 - 22 knots. Unfortunately even at this speed we have not been able to make up the time lost yesterday, so the Captain has had to cut Petropavlovsk in Russia from our itinerary. Instead we now head directly to Kodiak in Alaska.
This is a bit disappointing, we were keen to see a bit more of russia, particularly since Vladivostok was so wet when we were there. Still I understand the decision and in reality there wasn't any other option.
A quiet shipboard day today - listening to a few lectures, eating, walking, reading etc.
I have a bit of work I can do to while away a few hours.
I have updated the ships track, but a bit of track is missing from west coast of Hokkaido, but you can figure out where we went.
Greg
26 - 27th April North Pacific
Continuing to sail along towards Alaska, although still a long way to go, so a few days now at sea.
Having a few internet and email problems- I think back with my Australian Server, so I may not be able to upload the web page, and we haven't receive any emails since night of 26th.
Quiet restful days lazing around the ship. There are some very good lectures on wildlife and geology, and as we get closer to the Alaskan area, the emphasis has been on glaciers and polar bears and seals.
Also cooking classes, movies, live shows and book reading.
Greg and Daylle
Continuing to sail along towards Alaska, although still a long way to go, so a few days now at sea.
Having a few internet and email problems- I think back with my Australian Server, so I may not be able to upload the web page, and we haven't receive any emails since night of 26th.
Quiet restful days lazing around the ship. There are some very good lectures on wildlife and geology, and as we get closer to the Alaskan area, the emphasis has been on glaciers and polar bears and seals.
Also cooking classes, movies, live shows and book reading.
Greg and Daylle
28 April Bering Sea
We crossed from the Pacific Ocean into the Bering Sea over night, and travelling along a ring of islands, which lead into the Aluetian Islands which we should see tomorrow. Earlier today we passed by Attu Island. Not that close, but the snow covered mountains stood out. Unfortunately low cloud over the island cut off the tops of the peaks.
We also crossed over the International Date line so today is probably the 27th again, but since it started as the 28th we are keeping it as the 28th, and we will have another 28th tomorrow. Confused? It confused me when I was looking for some photos I took. Because the camera has inbuilt GPS, it automatically filed pictures that i took after we crossed the date line into yesterdays photos.
We had a traditional ceremony to mark the crossing of the Dateline, although we elected to be observers rather then participants being thrown into the pool!
I have added a few photos to Shipboard life for the last few days and an update of ships location.
Greg and Daylle
We crossed from the Pacific Ocean into the Bering Sea over night, and travelling along a ring of islands, which lead into the Aluetian Islands which we should see tomorrow. Earlier today we passed by Attu Island. Not that close, but the snow covered mountains stood out. Unfortunately low cloud over the island cut off the tops of the peaks.
We also crossed over the International Date line so today is probably the 27th again, but since it started as the 28th we are keeping it as the 28th, and we will have another 28th tomorrow. Confused? It confused me when I was looking for some photos I took. Because the camera has inbuilt GPS, it automatically filed pictures that i took after we crossed the date line into yesterdays photos.
We had a traditional ceremony to mark the crossing of the Dateline, although we elected to be observers rather then participants being thrown into the pool!
I have added a few photos to Shipboard life for the last few days and an update of ships location.
Greg and Daylle
Sunday 29th April North Paific Ocean off the coast of Alaska Peninsular
We are getting close to our first stop in Alaska. We are due to arrive in Kodiak at 12 noon tomorrow. This is a few hours late on our schedule but we will be staying until 9:00pm so we should get good opportunity to explore Kodiak.
Weather has improved dramatically- blue skies, but temperature is a fresh 1 degree C.
Pretty lazy days hanging around the ship, listening to wildlife lectures, watching movies, reading books, walking the Promenade Deck- 500 steps to a lap!
We will be glad to see land again though- its now a week since we left Vlaivostok, but we are now heading into the main part of the cruise- the Alaskan coastline, glaciers and mountain peaks, and hopefully some wildlife.
Another Formal Dining night today. These are a bit of fun, great food, pleasant chamber music.
We are trying not to eat too much! But the temptation is great. need to do more laps of the deck or spend more time in the Gym.
The treadmills in the gym have a great view, looking down over the bow of the ship.
Greg and Dayllet
We are getting close to our first stop in Alaska. We are due to arrive in Kodiak at 12 noon tomorrow. This is a few hours late on our schedule but we will be staying until 9:00pm so we should get good opportunity to explore Kodiak.
Weather has improved dramatically- blue skies, but temperature is a fresh 1 degree C.
Pretty lazy days hanging around the ship, listening to wildlife lectures, watching movies, reading books, walking the Promenade Deck- 500 steps to a lap!
We will be glad to see land again though- its now a week since we left Vlaivostok, but we are now heading into the main part of the cruise- the Alaskan coastline, glaciers and mountain peaks, and hopefully some wildlife.
Another Formal Dining night today. These are a bit of fun, great food, pleasant chamber music.
We are trying not to eat too much! But the temptation is great. need to do more laps of the deck or spend more time in the Gym.
The treadmills in the gym have a great view, looking down over the bow of the ship.
Greg and Dayllet
Monday 30th April Kodiak Alaska
Finally we step foot on dry land again after 8 days at sea. We arrived at Kodiak about 11:30, but by the time the ship berthed and US imigration officials came on board and processed visas and waivers and stamped passports, we started our tour of
Kodiak at 2 pm.
Kodiak could be described as a small town, population 7800. It survives on fishing and the US Coastguard.
The fleet from the TV show "World's Deadliest Catch" is based in
Kodiak, and all around the harbour are Crab Pots. There are a number of fish processing Plants. Interestingly there is only one cannery left, all the others have converted to quick freeze and there are lines of freezer trailers parked outside.
Kodiak island is very volcanic and the peaks that run down the island are spectacular. They have snow all year round, although the Orthodox Priest whe we visited a church commented on how temperate the climate was!! He said although it got cold, it actually wasn't as cold as parts of USA where he had lived before. And our day there was beautiful and sunny although a bit of a cold breeze. Like Blackheath in June.
The other places we went to in Kodiak was an Othodox Church- a little timber building built to replicate the first church in Kodiak. We visited a Russian tea house with Russian folk music which was interesting. Although Alaska is now part of USA, it has a strong Russian history. Now they say that one of the biggest groups is Philipino- here for the fishing work.
Greetings to all as we have now left Kodiak and are sailing to Glacier Bay.
Greg and Daylle
Finally we step foot on dry land again after 8 days at sea. We arrived at Kodiak about 11:30, but by the time the ship berthed and US imigration officials came on board and processed visas and waivers and stamped passports, we started our tour of
Kodiak at 2 pm.
Kodiak could be described as a small town, population 7800. It survives on fishing and the US Coastguard.
The fleet from the TV show "World's Deadliest Catch" is based in
Kodiak, and all around the harbour are Crab Pots. There are a number of fish processing Plants. Interestingly there is only one cannery left, all the others have converted to quick freeze and there are lines of freezer trailers parked outside.
Kodiak island is very volcanic and the peaks that run down the island are spectacular. They have snow all year round, although the Orthodox Priest whe we visited a church commented on how temperate the climate was!! He said although it got cold, it actually wasn't as cold as parts of USA where he had lived before. And our day there was beautiful and sunny although a bit of a cold breeze. Like Blackheath in June.
The other places we went to in Kodiak was an Othodox Church- a little timber building built to replicate the first church in Kodiak. We visited a Russian tea house with Russian folk music which was interesting. Although Alaska is now part of USA, it has a strong Russian history. Now they say that one of the biggest groups is Philipino- here for the fishing work.
Greetings to all as we have now left Kodiak and are sailing to Glacier Bay.
Greg and Daylle
Wednesday 2nd May Glacier Bay Alaska
What a magnificent place!!!
We arose just as we started to enter the bay. Occasional flurry of snow flakes, and some low cloud were a disappointment, yet somehow it almost seems the right weather to view this beautiful area. The glaciers are dependent upn the abundent snow that falls inthis region.
Looking at photos you could be forgiven in thinking that I was using Black and White film( or digital setting). The low cloud kept the blue sky from colouring the scenery. Yet some glaciers had bright blue ice, an indication of its purity, compared to dirty ice which had picked up lots of rock and soil as it worked its way down the valley.
We saw one whale briefly, lots of sea otters, sea lions, and bear tracks!!, but no bear.
We stopped for about an hour opposite one of the larger glacier. This glacier is moving very quickly and many chunks of ice fell off the face as we watched. Hence the large numbers of ice bergs, albeit mostly small.
We head now for Sitka, another small town on the coast of Alaska. We are due to arrive early tomorrow morning.
Greg and Daylle
What a magnificent place!!!
We arose just as we started to enter the bay. Occasional flurry of snow flakes, and some low cloud were a disappointment, yet somehow it almost seems the right weather to view this beautiful area. The glaciers are dependent upn the abundent snow that falls inthis region.
Looking at photos you could be forgiven in thinking that I was using Black and White film( or digital setting). The low cloud kept the blue sky from colouring the scenery. Yet some glaciers had bright blue ice, an indication of its purity, compared to dirty ice which had picked up lots of rock and soil as it worked its way down the valley.
We saw one whale briefly, lots of sea otters, sea lions, and bear tracks!!, but no bear.
We stopped for about an hour opposite one of the larger glacier. This glacier is moving very quickly and many chunks of ice fell off the face as we watched. Hence the large numbers of ice bergs, albeit mostly small.
We head now for Sitka, another small town on the coast of Alaska. We are due to arrive early tomorrow morning.
Greg and Daylle
Thursday 3rd May Sitka
We awoke to find ourselves moored in the middle of beautiful Sitka Sound. With no Cruise Ship Terminal, we had to go ashore by tender( ships lifeboats).
We had a great walk aroud the heritge and wildlife areas of Sitka, including the Raptor Centre where they retrain Bald Eagles etc to fly after thy have been injured.
Sitka has a rich hisory of settlement, starting with the indigenous Tlingit Indian people, followed by the Russians and finally the Americans. it was at Sitka, that the deal for the USA to purchase Alaska from the Russians in 1867 was concluded. The USA paid $7.2million for the entire state of Alaska.
Sitka at one stage was the capital of Alask. Currently it has a population of about 9000. The main industry is fishing and during summer tourism.
The indigenous people "the Tlingit " carved huge Totem Poles, which are scattered aound town, and at the Heritage Park, which is on the site of the Sitka Massacre of 1804, when the Rusians drove the Tlingit tribes away.
As we left Sitka, we saw about 10 whales, but they were only blowing and didn't want to stick their heads out of the water or play around. Maybe over the next few days we may get better whale sightings.
We are currently heading for Prince Rupert,our first stop in Canada.
Greg and Daylle
We awoke to find ourselves moored in the middle of beautiful Sitka Sound. With no Cruise Ship Terminal, we had to go ashore by tender( ships lifeboats).
We had a great walk aroud the heritge and wildlife areas of Sitka, including the Raptor Centre where they retrain Bald Eagles etc to fly after thy have been injured.
Sitka has a rich hisory of settlement, starting with the indigenous Tlingit Indian people, followed by the Russians and finally the Americans. it was at Sitka, that the deal for the USA to purchase Alaska from the Russians in 1867 was concluded. The USA paid $7.2million for the entire state of Alaska.
Sitka at one stage was the capital of Alask. Currently it has a population of about 9000. The main industry is fishing and during summer tourism.
The indigenous people "the Tlingit " carved huge Totem Poles, which are scattered aound town, and at the Heritage Park, which is on the site of the Sitka Massacre of 1804, when the Rusians drove the Tlingit tribes away.
As we left Sitka, we saw about 10 whales, but they were only blowing and didn't want to stick their heads out of the water or play around. Maybe over the next few days we may get better whale sightings.
We are currently heading for Prince Rupert,our first stop in Canada.
Greg and Daylle
Friday 4th May Prince Rupert
Prince Rupert is a larger town on the orth west coast of Canada. So put away the US dollars and break out the Canadian Dollars.
Prince Rupert was developed on fishing and canneries. Fishing still plays a major part, although there are significant Port developments in a Container Port, and Bulk Handling ports for grain and coal. They promote the Port as the closest to Asia for export of Canadian coal and grain.
We visited an old Cannery, developed into a heritage park. Very interesting, and local high school kids dramatised workers etc. The community fully embraces the visits of Cruise Ships, kids have time off school to be volunteer ambassadors etc.
As we come further south, the scenery is still spectacular, but the amount of snow predictably is reducing.
Saturday 5th May Cruising Inside Passage of Vancouver Island.
Our last day on board. A quiet day cruising through beautiful scenery with pine covered mountains coming down to a tranquil waters edge. A bit of snow on mountains just adds to the ambience.
We are only about 100 nmiles from Vancouver, so ship has slowed to time our arrival for 7:00am in the morning.
Greg and Daylle
Prince Rupert is a larger town on the orth west coast of Canada. So put away the US dollars and break out the Canadian Dollars.
Prince Rupert was developed on fishing and canneries. Fishing still plays a major part, although there are significant Port developments in a Container Port, and Bulk Handling ports for grain and coal. They promote the Port as the closest to Asia for export of Canadian coal and grain.
We visited an old Cannery, developed into a heritage park. Very interesting, and local high school kids dramatised workers etc. The community fully embraces the visits of Cruise Ships, kids have time off school to be volunteer ambassadors etc.
As we come further south, the scenery is still spectacular, but the amount of snow predictably is reducing.
Saturday 5th May Cruising Inside Passage of Vancouver Island.
Our last day on board. A quiet day cruising through beautiful scenery with pine covered mountains coming down to a tranquil waters edge. A bit of snow on mountains just adds to the ambience.
We are only about 100 nmiles from Vancouver, so ship has slowed to time our arrival for 7:00am in the morning.
Greg and Daylle
Monday 7th May - Vancouver
Arrived in Vancouver yesterday morning. By the time we cleared the ship and immigration etc, it was about 10.30 before we picked up our rental car and could start to head out on sightseeing.
First went to stanley park, which is a big parkland area on the harbour just next to the city area. Time for a coffee and orientation. Because it was such a beautiful day, we decided to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge. This is a really good suspension bridge across a gorge and forest of douglas firs and western red cedars. they also have a fantastic cliff walk- a walkway is hung of the side of a cliff.
After this we went back to Stanley Park and really enjoyed the afternoon wandering through the gardens, flowers and around the waters edge.
Today was another glorious day, blue skies and about 20 degrees, so we decided to go to Whistler - the ski resort about 100klms orth of Vancouver. What a beautiful place. The snow capped mountains were breath taking. We caught the chair lift up Blackcomb mountain. This was the only part open for skiing, but it was beautiful to sit on the deck of the restaurant and have lunch.
The drive up and back was full of stops to take photos, walk to waterfalls etc.
I have attached a few photos.
Greg and Daylle
Arrived in Vancouver yesterday morning. By the time we cleared the ship and immigration etc, it was about 10.30 before we picked up our rental car and could start to head out on sightseeing.
First went to stanley park, which is a big parkland area on the harbour just next to the city area. Time for a coffee and orientation. Because it was such a beautiful day, we decided to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge. This is a really good suspension bridge across a gorge and forest of douglas firs and western red cedars. they also have a fantastic cliff walk- a walkway is hung of the side of a cliff.
After this we went back to Stanley Park and really enjoyed the afternoon wandering through the gardens, flowers and around the waters edge.
Today was another glorious day, blue skies and about 20 degrees, so we decided to go to Whistler - the ski resort about 100klms orth of Vancouver. What a beautiful place. The snow capped mountains were breath taking. We caught the chair lift up Blackcomb mountain. This was the only part open for skiing, but it was beautiful to sit on the deck of the restaurant and have lunch.
The drive up and back was full of stops to take photos, walk to waterfalls etc.
I have attached a few photos.
Greg and Daylle
Thursday 10th May Vancouver- Calgary- Banff
Since my last post we have seen so much and crammed so much into the time.
On Tuesday we started out with some Vancover inner city highlights. We started off in Gastown, it is an area somewhat to similar to the Rocks area of Sydney. The most interesting thing was the steam powered clock. Vancouver has heating steam distributed by underground pipework. This clock has a small steam engine which lifts weights etc to drive the clock on the hour and 1/4 hr.
From there we went to Granville Island. This was also an old waterfront area, but more industrialised.
It is now a series of markets, produce and craft/ art, as well as marinas and various marine service industries.
From there a quick visit to Science World, similar to Questacon in Canberra. Very well put together, but the most interesting was an exibition on Leonardo di Vinci. Unfortunately not able to take photos inside the exibition, but it was full of amazing models of di Vinci's design, from scuba suit to flying machines etc. a major examination of Mona Lisa, how it was painted, etc.
Then off to Calgary. The immediate impression is one of how flat the area is, particularly after the mountains around Vancouver and Whistler. A spread out city with very good freeways. Generally easy to find our way around (except when the road the GPS wants is closed for road works or I enter the wrong address).
Visited some interesting places- Calgary Fort, some nice parklands, city centre.
And then onto Banff. If Whistler was a wow!, Banff is a WOW!!! Absolutely stunning scenery and a really pretty town. The highlights were the Gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain, and a relaxing time in hot thermal springs, looking out to the snow capped peaks.
We think the Gondola ride and the boardwalk trail at the top of the mountain is probably one of the best tourist atotractions we have ever seen. Absolutely stunning scenery but coupled with a very well thought out interpretative walk. As we got right to the summit, it got extremely cold. Who knows how cold? But I reckon the wind chill was probably about -20 degrees. So cold that the camera stopped working for a while until I could warm up the battery and camera.
The Hot Springs were really nice and relaxing. After the cold on the summit, it was great to soak in the pool for about an hour at 39 degrees.
Tomorrow we are off to Jasper, via Lake Louise. This area is surposed to be more spectacular then Banff, so I will have to consult the dictionary for more superalatives.
I'll try and upload photos tomorrow. In the meantime I have uploaded more photos for Vancouver.
Greg and Daylle
Since my last post we have seen so much and crammed so much into the time.
On Tuesday we started out with some Vancover inner city highlights. We started off in Gastown, it is an area somewhat to similar to the Rocks area of Sydney. The most interesting thing was the steam powered clock. Vancouver has heating steam distributed by underground pipework. This clock has a small steam engine which lifts weights etc to drive the clock on the hour and 1/4 hr.
From there we went to Granville Island. This was also an old waterfront area, but more industrialised.
It is now a series of markets, produce and craft/ art, as well as marinas and various marine service industries.
From there a quick visit to Science World, similar to Questacon in Canberra. Very well put together, but the most interesting was an exibition on Leonardo di Vinci. Unfortunately not able to take photos inside the exibition, but it was full of amazing models of di Vinci's design, from scuba suit to flying machines etc. a major examination of Mona Lisa, how it was painted, etc.
Then off to Calgary. The immediate impression is one of how flat the area is, particularly after the mountains around Vancouver and Whistler. A spread out city with very good freeways. Generally easy to find our way around (except when the road the GPS wants is closed for road works or I enter the wrong address).
Visited some interesting places- Calgary Fort, some nice parklands, city centre.
And then onto Banff. If Whistler was a wow!, Banff is a WOW!!! Absolutely stunning scenery and a really pretty town. The highlights were the Gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain, and a relaxing time in hot thermal springs, looking out to the snow capped peaks.
We think the Gondola ride and the boardwalk trail at the top of the mountain is probably one of the best tourist atotractions we have ever seen. Absolutely stunning scenery but coupled with a very well thought out interpretative walk. As we got right to the summit, it got extremely cold. Who knows how cold? But I reckon the wind chill was probably about -20 degrees. So cold that the camera stopped working for a while until I could warm up the battery and camera.
The Hot Springs were really nice and relaxing. After the cold on the summit, it was great to soak in the pool for about an hour at 39 degrees.
Tomorrow we are off to Jasper, via Lake Louise. This area is surposed to be more spectacular then Banff, so I will have to consult the dictionary for more superalatives.
I'll try and upload photos tomorrow. In the meantime I have uploaded more photos for Vancouver.
Greg and Daylle
Saturday 12 May Jasper to Banff.
Today we retraced our steps of yesterday in going back down the Icefield Parkway. Whilst it could have been a bit ho hum! In fact it was just as enjoyable and alost as slow travelling the 290 klms. Over the two days we have travelled 580 klms over the Icefield Parkway, and have probably averaged about 30 klms per hour. So many stops to talk a walk, take a photo or two( or 99). Today gave us the opportunity to stop at places we didn't yesterday.
Places like Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, many photo vantage points that were on the wrongside of the road yesterday, and finally Johnston Canyon. Wildlife was also a highlight. A lumbering bear was just wandering along the edge of the road. Cars were stopping and driving past and the bear just kept ambling along. Gotsome great photos. A mountan sheep was standing in the middle of a bridge, I think licking salt from de-icing salt. It wasn't movin for anybody and cars just had to swerve to get around. There were quite a lot of Elk, but I was waiting to get a photo Of a male with big antlers, but not to be . All in all a pretty exciting day.
Tomorrow we board the Rocky Mountaineer train and head back through the Rockies to Vancouver. Should be Beautiful.
I had a few problems uploading pages yesterday so I have reloaded today and they should work O.K
Friday 11th May - Banff to Jasper via Lake Louise and the Icefield Parkway
WOW! WOW! WOW!
Words and photos can't begin to describe what we experienced today!
Travelling along the road it seemed that at every bend it was another WOW or AHH!
Banff scenery was amazing but we weren't prepared for the beauty of Lake Louise.
Then the icefields - oh boy stunning and so special to be able to stand on the glacier - we did feel that the Fox Glacier in NZ gave a better look at a glacier as today's was pretty well covered with fresh snow. One of the drivers told us it was -15 last night!
The weather today has been absolutely glorious - clear blue skies andif out of the wind quite warm.
But out on the glacier was freezing! A very cold wind which blew gusts of snowy powder brrrrrr!
Our exciitng day was topped of by being able to see a Grizzly Bear on the side of the road - there he was about 25 metres from the side of the road happily munching at the grass and occassionaly looking up at the funny humans with little square things pointed at him - he was probably having a bear chuckle at us!
Daylle and Greg
Today we retraced our steps of yesterday in going back down the Icefield Parkway. Whilst it could have been a bit ho hum! In fact it was just as enjoyable and alost as slow travelling the 290 klms. Over the two days we have travelled 580 klms over the Icefield Parkway, and have probably averaged about 30 klms per hour. So many stops to talk a walk, take a photo or two( or 99). Today gave us the opportunity to stop at places we didn't yesterday.
Places like Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, many photo vantage points that were on the wrongside of the road yesterday, and finally Johnston Canyon. Wildlife was also a highlight. A lumbering bear was just wandering along the edge of the road. Cars were stopping and driving past and the bear just kept ambling along. Gotsome great photos. A mountan sheep was standing in the middle of a bridge, I think licking salt from de-icing salt. It wasn't movin for anybody and cars just had to swerve to get around. There were quite a lot of Elk, but I was waiting to get a photo Of a male with big antlers, but not to be . All in all a pretty exciting day.
Tomorrow we board the Rocky Mountaineer train and head back through the Rockies to Vancouver. Should be Beautiful.
I had a few problems uploading pages yesterday so I have reloaded today and they should work O.K
Friday 11th May - Banff to Jasper via Lake Louise and the Icefield Parkway
WOW! WOW! WOW!
Words and photos can't begin to describe what we experienced today!
Travelling along the road it seemed that at every bend it was another WOW or AHH!
Banff scenery was amazing but we weren't prepared for the beauty of Lake Louise.
Then the icefields - oh boy stunning and so special to be able to stand on the glacier - we did feel that the Fox Glacier in NZ gave a better look at a glacier as today's was pretty well covered with fresh snow. One of the drivers told us it was -15 last night!
The weather today has been absolutely glorious - clear blue skies andif out of the wind quite warm.
But out on the glacier was freezing! A very cold wind which blew gusts of snowy powder brrrrrr!
Our exciitng day was topped of by being able to see a Grizzly Bear on the side of the road - there he was about 25 metres from the side of the road happily munching at the grass and occassionaly looking up at the funny humans with little square things pointed at him - he was probably having a bear chuckle at us!
Daylle and Greg
Monday 14 May on Board Rocky Mountaineer
A slow start tothe day- the train was delayed for about 2 hours due to adding extra carriages and brake testing etc.
Quite a different day from yesterday. Initially from Kamloops, the countryside is dry and brown rolling hills etc. The rail track clings to the side of the canyons as we wind our way alongside the lakes and then rivers, leading to the rich alluvial farming plains.
We travel for quite a long way along the valley sides, as you can see from the photos.
At Hell's Gate, the valley narrows own to only 34m wide, yet discharges twice the volume of water that goes over Niagra Falls. It defies believe that the guy who was building the railroad, shipped materials in a boat through this narrow gorge.
We had a tour ofthetrin this morning, there is no doubt that Gold Leaf service is the way to go. Silver Leaf was pretty good, and Red Leaf is pretty basic, but still the same views outthe window.
Arrived in Vancouver after another long day- 12hrs since leaving last nights hotel.
Sunday 13 May On Board Rocky Mountaineer
Left Banff in beautiful sunshine on the Rocky Moutaineer. A pretty luxurious train.
The train wanders through the RockyMountains, continuing the fantastic visual experiences of the past few days. The glass domed roof gives vision in a virtually 360 degree sweep. The carriage is double decker- upstairs sitting and viewing and downstairs dining and open access platform. The service staff are great, bringing drinks and snacks whenever you want.
Leaving Banff and up until lunchtime, we are deep in the Rockies. Ragged peaks, snow capped, and fast flowing crystal clear rivers and lakes.
At one stage we went through spiral tunnels. These tunnels are quite an engineering feat, turning the train through 250 degrees and dropping 300 metres.
After lunch the country changed, and with the lower elevation, temperatures were appreciably higher. So much so, that as we passed Shuswap Lake, there wer people on the beaches sunbaking and even swimming.
Shuswap Lake is an extremely popular recreational lake, with a shoreline almost 1000 klms long. The shoreline is lined with cabins and larger houses, some squeezed between the railway line and water. There are many houseboats in summer, but at this time of the season only a few.
From Shuswap Lake, the country became a bit more rolling hills and agriculture, before finally arriving in Kanloops after almost 12 hrs on train. Photos of the day to be added later.
Greg and Daylle.
A slow start tothe day- the train was delayed for about 2 hours due to adding extra carriages and brake testing etc.
Quite a different day from yesterday. Initially from Kamloops, the countryside is dry and brown rolling hills etc. The rail track clings to the side of the canyons as we wind our way alongside the lakes and then rivers, leading to the rich alluvial farming plains.
We travel for quite a long way along the valley sides, as you can see from the photos.
At Hell's Gate, the valley narrows own to only 34m wide, yet discharges twice the volume of water that goes over Niagra Falls. It defies believe that the guy who was building the railroad, shipped materials in a boat through this narrow gorge.
We had a tour ofthetrin this morning, there is no doubt that Gold Leaf service is the way to go. Silver Leaf was pretty good, and Red Leaf is pretty basic, but still the same views outthe window.
Arrived in Vancouver after another long day- 12hrs since leaving last nights hotel.
Sunday 13 May On Board Rocky Mountaineer
Left Banff in beautiful sunshine on the Rocky Moutaineer. A pretty luxurious train.
The train wanders through the RockyMountains, continuing the fantastic visual experiences of the past few days. The glass domed roof gives vision in a virtually 360 degree sweep. The carriage is double decker- upstairs sitting and viewing and downstairs dining and open access platform. The service staff are great, bringing drinks and snacks whenever you want.
Leaving Banff and up until lunchtime, we are deep in the Rockies. Ragged peaks, snow capped, and fast flowing crystal clear rivers and lakes.
At one stage we went through spiral tunnels. These tunnels are quite an engineering feat, turning the train through 250 degrees and dropping 300 metres.
After lunch the country changed, and with the lower elevation, temperatures were appreciably higher. So much so, that as we passed Shuswap Lake, there wer people on the beaches sunbaking and even swimming.
Shuswap Lake is an extremely popular recreational lake, with a shoreline almost 1000 klms long. The shoreline is lined with cabins and larger houses, some squeezed between the railway line and water. There are many houseboats in summer, but at this time of the season only a few.
From Shuswap Lake, the country became a bit more rolling hills and agriculture, before finally arriving in Kanloops after almost 12 hrs on train. Photos of the day to be added later.
Greg and Daylle.
Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16th May - Victoria, Vancouver Island
After a pretty early start To the day, leavinig the hotel at 6:45 for the 7:30 coach and ferry to Victoria, we arrived about midday, walked from the Bus Depot to hotel, about 3 blocks, and set out to explore Victoria downtown and harbour area.
The Inner Harbour is a beautiful area, with very grand old buildings, including the houses of Parliament and the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
It is surprising how far you can walk, just strolling around. To the sounds of Daylle's protests we walked over 20 klms in the day, exploring Fishermans Wharf for lunch( fish and chips), the general waterfront and the nooks and crannies of the downtown shops and historical areas, finishing up on Beacon Hill which overlooks the southern harbours, and out across to Washington State in USA and their snow capped peaks.
Wednesday was another glorious day. We picked up the rental car early and set off to explore a bit of the island and Burchart Gardens. We got to Burchart Gardens early. The brouchures say to allow an hour and half to two hours. We actually spent about 5 hrs there, although some of this was eating and drinking!! More later on this.
The gardens are absolutey stunning. It is easy to seewhy. They are so famous and such a tourist attraction. They flow from one garden to the other, but the most spectacular is probably the sunken garden, which was originally a limestone quarry for the adjacent cement works.
I think Daylle became a fanatical photographer, good thing I carried a spare camera battery. But the garden was just so lovely, it is hard to capture it in photo, without constantly snapping away.
After many hours of wandering the gardens it was time for a " High Tea"in the Dining Room. A really beautiful experience. On the photo page I will include a few pictures of afternoon tea, just to whet your appetities.
After the gardens, a visit to the Butterfly farm which was OK but couldn't match the grandeaur of the Burchart Gardens.
A drive around the northern part of the peninsular and through the town of Sidney saw us back in Victoria for the night.
Thursday 17th On route to Seattle.
After a great breakfast in a Dutch Bakery shop we stumbled upon, it was time to catch the ferry to Seattle, where I am writing this, ready to upload tonight.
Regards. Greg and Daylle.
After a pretty early start To the day, leavinig the hotel at 6:45 for the 7:30 coach and ferry to Victoria, we arrived about midday, walked from the Bus Depot to hotel, about 3 blocks, and set out to explore Victoria downtown and harbour area.
The Inner Harbour is a beautiful area, with very grand old buildings, including the houses of Parliament and the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
It is surprising how far you can walk, just strolling around. To the sounds of Daylle's protests we walked over 20 klms in the day, exploring Fishermans Wharf for lunch( fish and chips), the general waterfront and the nooks and crannies of the downtown shops and historical areas, finishing up on Beacon Hill which overlooks the southern harbours, and out across to Washington State in USA and their snow capped peaks.
Wednesday was another glorious day. We picked up the rental car early and set off to explore a bit of the island and Burchart Gardens. We got to Burchart Gardens early. The brouchures say to allow an hour and half to two hours. We actually spent about 5 hrs there, although some of this was eating and drinking!! More later on this.
The gardens are absolutey stunning. It is easy to seewhy. They are so famous and such a tourist attraction. They flow from one garden to the other, but the most spectacular is probably the sunken garden, which was originally a limestone quarry for the adjacent cement works.
I think Daylle became a fanatical photographer, good thing I carried a spare camera battery. But the garden was just so lovely, it is hard to capture it in photo, without constantly snapping away.
After many hours of wandering the gardens it was time for a " High Tea"in the Dining Room. A really beautiful experience. On the photo page I will include a few pictures of afternoon tea, just to whet your appetities.
After the gardens, a visit to the Butterfly farm which was OK but couldn't match the grandeaur of the Burchart Gardens.
A drive around the northern part of the peninsular and through the town of Sidney saw us back in Victoria for the night.
Thursday 17th On route to Seattle.
After a great breakfast in a Dutch Bakery shop we stumbled upon, it was time to catch the ferry to Seattle, where I am writing this, ready to upload tonight.
Regards. Greg and Daylle.
Thursday 17 to Saturday 19 May Los Angeles
Arrived in Los Angeles this morning after an early flight from Seattle.
Seattle was an interesting stay for a number of reasons. Interesting city with lots to do and see. As you can see in the photo we went up the Space Needle on Thursday afternoon. It was a pretty clear day so it was a great view. Then we went to EMP Museum of Music, Si-Fi and Pop Culture. It really was pretty cool and could have spent a lot longer there.
On Friday we went to the Boeing Factory and saw them making planes, 747, 777 and the new Dreamliner. An amazing place. What a production line. The Dreamliner, withits composite plastic shell etc is amazing.
We then visited the Aquarium whilst waiting for a Harbour Cruise. The cruise was nice and restful and interesting.
After the cruise, and a quick lunch of Fish and Chips from the historic fish shop on the piers, it was off to theMuseum of Flight. Seattle as you no doubt gather is big on planes etc. The museum of flight was really interesting and again could have spent more time there. We went aboard Airforce One( an earlier version last used I think by Jimmy Carter).
An early start to Saturday as we left the hotel at 5:45am to catch the 7:00 plane to Los Angeles.
A good flight with Virgin America. On arrival picked up hire car. I had mistakenly booked a car too small for our luggage so had to upgrade to standard size car- but then they didn't have one and gave me a Dodge Challenger. A bit of a yank tank but I'm getting used to it. A bit of a handful in tight parking spaces.
First stop was Santa Monica Pier for a couple of hours, inicluding lunch at Bubba Gumps. Of course we had to have a bucket of shrimp.
Santa Monica Pier is the end of the famous Route 66 across America.
We then set out for the J Paul Getty museum. Well, GPS struckout bigtime!! We got taken through all these narrow winding streets into the hills, only to come out at the back gate, with no access. Finally we found our wy, and what an amazing place. Really crowded. We left about 6:00pm, and the crowds were still coming in for a music concert.
Love Greg and Daylle
Photos to come later
Arrived in Los Angeles this morning after an early flight from Seattle.
Seattle was an interesting stay for a number of reasons. Interesting city with lots to do and see. As you can see in the photo we went up the Space Needle on Thursday afternoon. It was a pretty clear day so it was a great view. Then we went to EMP Museum of Music, Si-Fi and Pop Culture. It really was pretty cool and could have spent a lot longer there.
On Friday we went to the Boeing Factory and saw them making planes, 747, 777 and the new Dreamliner. An amazing place. What a production line. The Dreamliner, withits composite plastic shell etc is amazing.
We then visited the Aquarium whilst waiting for a Harbour Cruise. The cruise was nice and restful and interesting.
After the cruise, and a quick lunch of Fish and Chips from the historic fish shop on the piers, it was off to theMuseum of Flight. Seattle as you no doubt gather is big on planes etc. The museum of flight was really interesting and again could have spent more time there. We went aboard Airforce One( an earlier version last used I think by Jimmy Carter).
An early start to Saturday as we left the hotel at 5:45am to catch the 7:00 plane to Los Angeles.
A good flight with Virgin America. On arrival picked up hire car. I had mistakenly booked a car too small for our luggage so had to upgrade to standard size car- but then they didn't have one and gave me a Dodge Challenger. A bit of a yank tank but I'm getting used to it. A bit of a handful in tight parking spaces.
First stop was Santa Monica Pier for a couple of hours, inicluding lunch at Bubba Gumps. Of course we had to have a bucket of shrimp.
Santa Monica Pier is the end of the famous Route 66 across America.
We then set out for the J Paul Getty museum. Well, GPS struckout bigtime!! We got taken through all these narrow winding streets into the hills, only to come out at the back gate, with no access. Finally we found our wy, and what an amazing place. Really crowded. We left about 6:00pm, and the crowds were still coming in for a music concert.
Love Greg and Daylle
Photos to come later
Sunday 20 to Monday 21st. Sedona Arizona
So much has been crammed into the last few days, that today by comparison has been quite relaxing, albeit a long drive in the country.
Sunday started out a bit disorganised. We were booked on a Hollywood tour, and turned up at the appointed place and time. The tour guide showed up and advised the tour was cancelled for the morning due to amajor bike race which closed off all themajor Hollywood streets for the morning. So we rescheduled the tour for afternoon.
In the morning we ended up going to the La Brea Tar Pits. For those who are unfamiliar with these, this has been the great paleontological find ever. Animals now extinct have been trapped in the asphalt which bubbles up to the surface. They have recovered 35 Mammoths and millions of other fossil remains. They have an amazing museum of the actual skeletons they have recovered. We ended up spending all morning there it was so interesting. After a quick lunch at Farmers Market it was off to see Hollywood. The tour we did was very well done, albeit a bit long for people with only a passing interest in the Hollywood Lifestyle. The minibus was equipped with screens and at the appropriate place, film clips were played so you could recognise houses and set that were used.
After the tour, off to Disneyland, well at least the outside and Disney Downtown. Spent a couple of hours having dinner and wandering around the precinct around Disneyland.
This morning set off to head East to Arizona. What a mad house on the freeways!!! I thought we would miss the worst of the traffic, and maybe we did, but it was absolutely chaotic. However once we got a bit further out the drive was quite relaxing and enjoyable. It didn't take long for the countryside to change into arid, desert country and very hot. It was quite spectacular in its own way.- even the huge fields of windfarms were interesting. There would have been thousands of windfarm windmills.
And then onto Sedona- Red Rock Country. Vivid red rock mesas were all around
Managed to get a lovely flat for the night a- part of a golf course resort.
Lots of photos, but unfortunately I am running out of time to publish
A bit of a change of Itinerary coming up. Originally we were planning to stay in Mammoth Lakes and then drive through Yosemite , however we discovered that historically the mountain pass road is closed until june. But we have checked and the road is open early this year, so we are now going to stay in Mammoth Lake rather then Bakersfield?
Greg and Daylle
So much has been crammed into the last few days, that today by comparison has been quite relaxing, albeit a long drive in the country.
Sunday started out a bit disorganised. We were booked on a Hollywood tour, and turned up at the appointed place and time. The tour guide showed up and advised the tour was cancelled for the morning due to amajor bike race which closed off all themajor Hollywood streets for the morning. So we rescheduled the tour for afternoon.
In the morning we ended up going to the La Brea Tar Pits. For those who are unfamiliar with these, this has been the great paleontological find ever. Animals now extinct have been trapped in the asphalt which bubbles up to the surface. They have recovered 35 Mammoths and millions of other fossil remains. They have an amazing museum of the actual skeletons they have recovered. We ended up spending all morning there it was so interesting. After a quick lunch at Farmers Market it was off to see Hollywood. The tour we did was very well done, albeit a bit long for people with only a passing interest in the Hollywood Lifestyle. The minibus was equipped with screens and at the appropriate place, film clips were played so you could recognise houses and set that were used.
After the tour, off to Disneyland, well at least the outside and Disney Downtown. Spent a couple of hours having dinner and wandering around the precinct around Disneyland.
This morning set off to head East to Arizona. What a mad house on the freeways!!! I thought we would miss the worst of the traffic, and maybe we did, but it was absolutely chaotic. However once we got a bit further out the drive was quite relaxing and enjoyable. It didn't take long for the countryside to change into arid, desert country and very hot. It was quite spectacular in its own way.- even the huge fields of windfarms were interesting. There would have been thousands of windfarm windmills.
And then onto Sedona- Red Rock Country. Vivid red rock mesas were all around
Managed to get a lovely flat for the night a- part of a golf course resort.
Lots of photos, but unfortunately I am running out of time to publish
A bit of a change of Itinerary coming up. Originally we were planning to stay in Mammoth Lakes and then drive through Yosemite , however we discovered that historically the mountain pass road is closed until june. But we have checked and the road is open early this year, so we are now going to stay in Mammoth Lake rather then Bakersfield?
Greg and Daylle
Tuesday 22nd May. Grand Canyon
Started off the day with a drive around Sedona. Visited the Chapel of the Holy Cross. What an amazing chapel, built into the red rock massives. The photoabove gives some indication but you really have to see it to understand its beauty.
What was to be a short drive to the Grand Canyon, took until 6:30pm. As we drove out of Sedona there were many beautiful places to stop and view the scenery. One of the most amazing was the Sunset Volcano and the Wupatki Indian Ruins.
The sunset volcanoe was dormed only 1000 years ago. The early indian inhabitants have recorded how the ground started trembling and then a volcanic mountain was formed, lava flowing out and cinder hills being formed. It is amazing how this recent landform has dominated the landscape.
We then moved on into Wupatki Indian territory, stopping at some old ruins. These ruins are also about 1000 years old. Very striking, and the vivid red earth and rock adds to the atmosphere.
By this stage we thought we should head to Grand Canyon and check into hotel. Alas, as we approached the Grand Canyon there was so many stops to view the Canyon etc. i will try and post a few photos ASAP but again photos cannot do it justice. Tomorrow is serious Canyon exploring.
Greg and Daylle
Started off the day with a drive around Sedona. Visited the Chapel of the Holy Cross. What an amazing chapel, built into the red rock massives. The photoabove gives some indication but you really have to see it to understand its beauty.
What was to be a short drive to the Grand Canyon, took until 6:30pm. As we drove out of Sedona there were many beautiful places to stop and view the scenery. One of the most amazing was the Sunset Volcano and the Wupatki Indian Ruins.
The sunset volcanoe was dormed only 1000 years ago. The early indian inhabitants have recorded how the ground started trembling and then a volcanic mountain was formed, lava flowing out and cinder hills being formed. It is amazing how this recent landform has dominated the landscape.
We then moved on into Wupatki Indian territory, stopping at some old ruins. These ruins are also about 1000 years old. Very striking, and the vivid red earth and rock adds to the atmosphere.
By this stage we thought we should head to Grand Canyon and check into hotel. Alas, as we approached the Grand Canyon there was so many stops to view the Canyon etc. i will try and post a few photos ASAP but again photos cannot do it justice. Tomorrow is serious Canyon exploring.
Greg and Daylle
Wednesday 23 May Grand Canyon
What a full day. We didn't see the canyon from every lookout, we missed about 2!!!
After starting the day with an orientation video in the Visitors centre it was onto the shuttle buses which run around all the lookouts and various parts of the village etc. We were on and off shuttle buses from 9:30 am to 8:00pm, in between walking 14 klms according to my pedometer.
The Grand Canyon is indeed "Grand". The sheer scale of it is awesome. If I close cropped a photo I could almost replicate some of the cliffs and valleys in Blackheath, but when you zoom out, there is just no comparison.
For most of the South Rim, there is a trail that runs around the rim. We were astounded at just how close you can get to the canyon edge. The danger was highlighted yesterday when a man fell 650 feet to his death. We went past the scene on the way into the Grand Canyon park. There were emergency service vehicles every. Surprisingly they say the average number of deaths is only one per year.
We listened to Ranger Tom give his talk on the geology of the canyon-very interesting. Then it was time to head out to watch the sunset. The colours wer quiet vivid, although the visibilty was reduced with heavy wind borne dust and pollution from Los Angeles .
More photos to come, but just a few on this page.
Greg and Daylle
What a full day. We didn't see the canyon from every lookout, we missed about 2!!!
After starting the day with an orientation video in the Visitors centre it was onto the shuttle buses which run around all the lookouts and various parts of the village etc. We were on and off shuttle buses from 9:30 am to 8:00pm, in between walking 14 klms according to my pedometer.
The Grand Canyon is indeed "Grand". The sheer scale of it is awesome. If I close cropped a photo I could almost replicate some of the cliffs and valleys in Blackheath, but when you zoom out, there is just no comparison.
For most of the South Rim, there is a trail that runs around the rim. We were astounded at just how close you can get to the canyon edge. The danger was highlighted yesterday when a man fell 650 feet to his death. We went past the scene on the way into the Grand Canyon park. There were emergency service vehicles every. Surprisingly they say the average number of deaths is only one per year.
We listened to Ranger Tom give his talk on the geology of the canyon-very interesting. Then it was time to head out to watch the sunset. The colours wer quiet vivid, although the visibilty was reduced with heavy wind borne dust and pollution from Los Angeles .
More photos to come, but just a few on this page.
Greg and Daylle
Thursday 24th and Friday 25th Grand Canyon to Las Vegas
A fairly long drive from Grand Canyon to Las Vegas with a few stops on the way. Part of the road is the old route 66, the legendary route across the USA. Much of route 66 is now superseded by Interstate Freeways! But you can still drive on parts of it. So we got off the I40 at Williams, a quaint little town with lots of memorabilia. After Williams, back on the I40 for a while, until I got bored of freeways, then back onto Route 66 to Seligman. Then freeways all the way to Hoover Dam, and Las Vegas.
Hoover Dam was fabulous to visit. It is indeed one of the world's great engineering masterpieces. So we had to do the full Dam Tour. Down inside the hydro power station, a well as drainage and ventilation tunnels.
Then onto Vegas. What a glitzzy place. And our hotel is one of the glitziest! The Palazzo and Venetin are just opulence on a grand scale. We have a King Suite, overlooking "The Strip", but 35 floors up so there is no noise. The hotel is so big, you could stay weeks and never need to venture out in the daylight. We went for a walk at lunchtime trying to decide where to eat and came across Venice. Inside the Venetian side of the hotel is a canal with gondolas paddling up and down. And then there is a street of Italian lookg shops, opening out into a big square akin to St Marks Square in Venice. There was an Italian operetta being performed.
Last night we wandered for a while getting dinner etc. unfotunately it was pretty windy, and some of the free entertainment was cancelled.
Today is also extremely windy. Our helicopter trip back over the Grand Canyon, landing on the floor and having lunch in Indian village was also cancelled. Very disappointing, but understandable.
Tonight we are going to a show before a late dinner. Then tomorrow morning we head to Death Valley and Mammoth Lake.
Still haven't had a chance to upload photos for a while. I'll let you know when they are uploaded.
Greg and Daylle
A fairly long drive from Grand Canyon to Las Vegas with a few stops on the way. Part of the road is the old route 66, the legendary route across the USA. Much of route 66 is now superseded by Interstate Freeways! But you can still drive on parts of it. So we got off the I40 at Williams, a quaint little town with lots of memorabilia. After Williams, back on the I40 for a while, until I got bored of freeways, then back onto Route 66 to Seligman. Then freeways all the way to Hoover Dam, and Las Vegas.
Hoover Dam was fabulous to visit. It is indeed one of the world's great engineering masterpieces. So we had to do the full Dam Tour. Down inside the hydro power station, a well as drainage and ventilation tunnels.
Then onto Vegas. What a glitzzy place. And our hotel is one of the glitziest! The Palazzo and Venetin are just opulence on a grand scale. We have a King Suite, overlooking "The Strip", but 35 floors up so there is no noise. The hotel is so big, you could stay weeks and never need to venture out in the daylight. We went for a walk at lunchtime trying to decide where to eat and came across Venice. Inside the Venetian side of the hotel is a canal with gondolas paddling up and down. And then there is a street of Italian lookg shops, opening out into a big square akin to St Marks Square in Venice. There was an Italian operetta being performed.
Last night we wandered for a while getting dinner etc. unfotunately it was pretty windy, and some of the free entertainment was cancelled.
Today is also extremely windy. Our helicopter trip back over the Grand Canyon, landing on the floor and having lunch in Indian village was also cancelled. Very disappointing, but understandable.
Tonight we are going to a show before a late dinner. Then tomorrow morning we head to Death Valley and Mammoth Lake.
Still haven't had a chance to upload photos for a while. I'll let you know when they are uploaded.
Greg and Daylle
Saturday 26th May Las Vegas- Death Valley - Mammoth Lakes
After a fabulous last night in Las Vegas - a show( Phantom of the Opera), a lovely dinner in the Venetian(St Marks square) and an opulent suite to sleep in, it was off to Death Valley.
Death Valley was a remakable place. Renown for the extremes of temperature, we were pleased that it was a very pleasant low 20s, with a good breeze. The area is remarkable geology, barren rocky outcrops etc, salt pans and little vegetation, yet on some of the surrounding mountains there was still snow. From Death Valley it was up to Mammoth Lakes. It is amazing how the terrain changes so quickly. Once we left Death Valley National Park, you run into the Sierra Montains. Rugged mountain peaks snow capped and beautiful.
Mammoth Lakes are a series of Lakes surrounded by mountains. It is a popular ski field, although the season is now closed. But as we werelookng around the area, light snow started falling!! Quite cold and windy. Getting us ready to return to Bleakheath!
Tomorrow we head to Yosemite National Park.
Greg and Daylle
After a fabulous last night in Las Vegas - a show( Phantom of the Opera), a lovely dinner in the Venetian(St Marks square) and an opulent suite to sleep in, it was off to Death Valley.
Death Valley was a remakable place. Renown for the extremes of temperature, we were pleased that it was a very pleasant low 20s, with a good breeze. The area is remarkable geology, barren rocky outcrops etc, salt pans and little vegetation, yet on some of the surrounding mountains there was still snow. From Death Valley it was up to Mammoth Lakes. It is amazing how the terrain changes so quickly. Once we left Death Valley National Park, you run into the Sierra Montains. Rugged mountain peaks snow capped and beautiful.
Mammoth Lakes are a series of Lakes surrounded by mountains. It is a popular ski field, although the season is now closed. But as we werelookng around the area, light snow started falling!! Quite cold and windy. Getting us ready to return to Bleakheath!
Tomorrow we head to Yosemite National Park.
Greg and Daylle
Sunday 27th May Mammoth Lakes - Yosemite
Today we set off from Mammoth Lakes in glorious sunny weather after an evening of light snow.
First stop was visitors centre at Mono Basin. This is an inland salt water lake- akin to Dead Sea. Intersting history and ecology.
Travelled the Tioga Pass (which was a bonus as usually still closed from snow at this time of the year) to the Yosemite Valley. Our original itinerary included this, but then Michael advised it could be closed so we changed, with a note to check availability. Fortunately the pass opened about 2 weeks ago.
The pass was magic with still lots of snow around and still in the trees which was quite pretty.
Yosemite Valley we think was pretty good too however being the big Memorial Day holiday weekend it was understatly overcrowded. After moving a 1 mile per hour and 2 hours we finally found a park and then walked - clocking up more Ks on our pedometers! So far upto almost 400 klms walked so far this holiday!
After a lunch we walked more and saw an amazing waterfall which only flows in spring and summer.
From the valley we made our way back out of the park - again very slowly in another traffic jam and finally to our bed for the night!
This morning stopped at Mariposa for breakfast. A great little Diner - family run, really friendly people.
I have uploaded a few US photos - Seattle to Sedona. Grand Canyon and beyond yet to come.
Greg and Daylle.
Today we set off from Mammoth Lakes in glorious sunny weather after an evening of light snow.
First stop was visitors centre at Mono Basin. This is an inland salt water lake- akin to Dead Sea. Intersting history and ecology.
Travelled the Tioga Pass (which was a bonus as usually still closed from snow at this time of the year) to the Yosemite Valley. Our original itinerary included this, but then Michael advised it could be closed so we changed, with a note to check availability. Fortunately the pass opened about 2 weeks ago.
The pass was magic with still lots of snow around and still in the trees which was quite pretty.
Yosemite Valley we think was pretty good too however being the big Memorial Day holiday weekend it was understatly overcrowded. After moving a 1 mile per hour and 2 hours we finally found a park and then walked - clocking up more Ks on our pedometers! So far upto almost 400 klms walked so far this holiday!
After a lunch we walked more and saw an amazing waterfall which only flows in spring and summer.
From the valley we made our way back out of the park - again very slowly in another traffic jam and finally to our bed for the night!
This morning stopped at Mariposa for breakfast. A great little Diner - family run, really friendly people.
I have uploaded a few US photos - Seattle to Sedona. Grand Canyon and beyond yet to come.
Greg and Daylle.
Monday 28th May San Francisco
We got off to an early start again today - suprise, suprise - not if you have ever travelled with Tour leader Greg!
Actually an early start meant we beat the holiday traffic into San Francisco and had a good half day to explore the sights and plan for the next 2 days.
We went to purchase tickets to Alcatraz at a few outlets and were dismayed that there were none available so decided to walk to the actual ferry ticket office and have been able to get tickets for Thursday morning - will make travelling home even more tiring as we will do Alcatraz then head to the airport for the SF to LA leg of our journey home.
Our hotel is fairly central to Downtown SF so we walked and explored down through Chinatown, Little Italy and to the iconic Fisherman's Wharf. It was very crowded but probably more because it was still holiday weekend so we will probably go back and have a bit more of leisurely look.
We travelled back to the hotel via one of the iconic cable cars - an interesting trip but again not as enjoyable due to the holiday crowd so we will try doing it again when not so busy.
Now back in our hotel after a yummy Thai dinner - time for a night cap and bed so we can be off exploring again tomorrow!
I have uploaded a few more photos for Gand Canyon and Las Vegas.
Greg and Daylle
We got off to an early start again today - suprise, suprise - not if you have ever travelled with Tour leader Greg!
Actually an early start meant we beat the holiday traffic into San Francisco and had a good half day to explore the sights and plan for the next 2 days.
We went to purchase tickets to Alcatraz at a few outlets and were dismayed that there were none available so decided to walk to the actual ferry ticket office and have been able to get tickets for Thursday morning - will make travelling home even more tiring as we will do Alcatraz then head to the airport for the SF to LA leg of our journey home.
Our hotel is fairly central to Downtown SF so we walked and explored down through Chinatown, Little Italy and to the iconic Fisherman's Wharf. It was very crowded but probably more because it was still holiday weekend so we will probably go back and have a bit more of leisurely look.
We travelled back to the hotel via one of the iconic cable cars - an interesting trip but again not as enjoyable due to the holiday crowd so we will try doing it again when not so busy.
Now back in our hotel after a yummy Thai dinner - time for a night cap and bed so we can be off exploring again tomorrow!
I have uploaded a few more photos for Gand Canyon and Las Vegas.
Greg and Daylle
Tuesday 29th May San Francisco.
Birthday specials for Daylle today but again we got off to an early start to make the most of the day!
Thank you to family and friends who sent birthday greetings.
Breakfast at Lefty O'Doul's a cafe/diner that we discovered yesterday which has heaps of baseball memoribiilia adoring the walls. Yummy pancakes (almost as good as grandson Ben's).
Then it was off for the great Segway ride - if you don't know what a Segway is then wait for the pics that Greg took of the "old" girl ! It was actually great fun once you mastered it although Daylle was still a little nervous when sharing the road with cars!
Following this we caught a bus back to the grand Golden Gate Bridge,checked out the history and engineering feats then walked a little bit of the bridge - then we walked and walked and walked but saw some great stuff along the way. Lunch from a little shop at the piers where the armed forces left from during WW1and WW2, so a bit of a history lessons! Then onto Hyde Pier which was the ferry pier before the great bridge was built. Now it is a floating museum of restored and being restored boats of all shapes and sizes.
Then we found ourselves amongst the tourist area and alas because it was her birthday Daylle was allowed to look and even purchase some things!
We walked onto Pier 39 which is the tourist mecca and had fun watching the colony of sea lions and their antics. It was quite obvious who the bosses were!
From there we walked a bit further and caught the Tram Car to the ferry wharf with the intention of catching a ferry across the harbour but then decided against that as it was getting late in the day.
Instead we caught a Cable Car to the other end of town which was fun as not very crowded the only problem being that we had to change lines to get back to the hotel - no problem except that line was overcrowded so we had to walk back and catch another line which dropped us a 1/2 hour walk from the hotel so more walking!
The day was topped off with a scrumptious meal in our hotel dining room beause Daylle' legs refused to walk any further (Greg even was feeling the walk!)
Love Daylle and Greg
Birthday specials for Daylle today but again we got off to an early start to make the most of the day!
Thank you to family and friends who sent birthday greetings.
Breakfast at Lefty O'Doul's a cafe/diner that we discovered yesterday which has heaps of baseball memoribiilia adoring the walls. Yummy pancakes (almost as good as grandson Ben's).
Then it was off for the great Segway ride - if you don't know what a Segway is then wait for the pics that Greg took of the "old" girl ! It was actually great fun once you mastered it although Daylle was still a little nervous when sharing the road with cars!
Following this we caught a bus back to the grand Golden Gate Bridge,checked out the history and engineering feats then walked a little bit of the bridge - then we walked and walked and walked but saw some great stuff along the way. Lunch from a little shop at the piers where the armed forces left from during WW1and WW2, so a bit of a history lessons! Then onto Hyde Pier which was the ferry pier before the great bridge was built. Now it is a floating museum of restored and being restored boats of all shapes and sizes.
Then we found ourselves amongst the tourist area and alas because it was her birthday Daylle was allowed to look and even purchase some things!
We walked onto Pier 39 which is the tourist mecca and had fun watching the colony of sea lions and their antics. It was quite obvious who the bosses were!
From there we walked a bit further and caught the Tram Car to the ferry wharf with the intention of catching a ferry across the harbour but then decided against that as it was getting late in the day.
Instead we caught a Cable Car to the other end of town which was fun as not very crowded the only problem being that we had to change lines to get back to the hotel - no problem except that line was overcrowded so we had to walk back and catch another line which dropped us a 1/2 hour walk from the hotel so more walking!
The day was topped off with a scrumptious meal in our hotel dining room beause Daylle' legs refused to walk any further (Greg even was feeling the walk!)
Love Daylle and Greg
Thursday 31st May Last few hours inSan Francisco
Quick update as we sit at SF Airport.
This morning we went to Alcatraz for a quick tour. Interesting place. Glad I wasn't here as an inmate. A very good audio tour of the main cell block with lots of interesting details of life in the prison, as well as graphic details of riots and escapes.
Then back to hotel for late checkout, a quick lunch and then to the airport. We are a bit earlyinthe airport, but we talked our way into the Delta Airlines Club lounge so we can relax and wit the two hours before we leave board. First stop LA and a two hour transfer, then home sweet home.
Wednesday 30th May San Francisco Area
Our last full day of holidays!
We started off with brekky at a different diner - yummy strawberry and bananna pancakes not real healthy but slightly better than greasy eggs and bacon. We have gone off bacon here as they seem to like to cook it to a hard crisp!
After brekky we went for a drive to explore the country areas.
First stop Muir Wood National Monument Park - fantastic Redwood groves - once we got further into the park the other tourists disappeared and it was lovely and tranquil. The trees were huge - not only tall but thick trunks too.
Next stop was the Napa Wine Valley - we went to a lovely winery which not only had wine tasting but you could also purchase a picnic lunch so we indulged in a lovely bottle of wine and great Italian pasta, salad, cheese and fresh bread.
Then we found the Napa factory outlets a bit like our DFO centres - great range of shops but the prices didn't seem all that cheap compared to DFO. Daylle had been excited at the prospect of a shopping spree so was somewhat disappointed at what was available.
We also checked out a big Wal Mart store as had been told it was a great place to shop but not sure if it was the particular store or not but Katoomba K Mart had better quality clothes at better prices - so no new purchases!!! Another disappointment as we had researched where to find a store!
The end of the day has seen us packing bags and fitting in everything ready for the flight home tomorrow.
Love Daylle and Greg
PS photos now uploaded upto today.
Quick update as we sit at SF Airport.
This morning we went to Alcatraz for a quick tour. Interesting place. Glad I wasn't here as an inmate. A very good audio tour of the main cell block with lots of interesting details of life in the prison, as well as graphic details of riots and escapes.
Then back to hotel for late checkout, a quick lunch and then to the airport. We are a bit earlyinthe airport, but we talked our way into the Delta Airlines Club lounge so we can relax and wit the two hours before we leave board. First stop LA and a two hour transfer, then home sweet home.
Wednesday 30th May San Francisco Area
Our last full day of holidays!
We started off with brekky at a different diner - yummy strawberry and bananna pancakes not real healthy but slightly better than greasy eggs and bacon. We have gone off bacon here as they seem to like to cook it to a hard crisp!
After brekky we went for a drive to explore the country areas.
First stop Muir Wood National Monument Park - fantastic Redwood groves - once we got further into the park the other tourists disappeared and it was lovely and tranquil. The trees were huge - not only tall but thick trunks too.
Next stop was the Napa Wine Valley - we went to a lovely winery which not only had wine tasting but you could also purchase a picnic lunch so we indulged in a lovely bottle of wine and great Italian pasta, salad, cheese and fresh bread.
Then we found the Napa factory outlets a bit like our DFO centres - great range of shops but the prices didn't seem all that cheap compared to DFO. Daylle had been excited at the prospect of a shopping spree so was somewhat disappointed at what was available.
We also checked out a big Wal Mart store as had been told it was a great place to shop but not sure if it was the particular store or not but Katoomba K Mart had better quality clothes at better prices - so no new purchases!!! Another disappointment as we had researched where to find a store!
The end of the day has seen us packing bags and fitting in everything ready for the flight home tomorrow.
Love Daylle and Greg
PS photos now uploaded upto today.