The Dacha: 5/16/10

Saturday, May 22, 2010

WC2010- Last Sea Day

It was a fun last sea day on this year's World Cruise segment. And a busy one.

I went by the photo center to see the display of the three medalists in the photography competition of the World Cruise Games.

And then, at noon, we attended the display of the Art Class' works!

There's Clyde...er...Viretta, as we now call her!

Chuck's very beautiful work-in-progress.

My art teacher, Julie Warren Conn. She is such a wonderful sculptor and an amazing teacher!!

Ater the show, it was time for a lunchtime get-together with our little group who traveled to Londolozi--The Order of the White Frog!

The art class got together that afternoon for a celebratory glass of champagne.

Then it was time to get dressed up for our last formal night and the Captain's Farewell.

CruiseGran with our new friend, Dr. Lenore Buford

Kay and Paul, the happiest couple on the dance floor!

The Master, Glen Edvardsen

WC2010- Goa

As we moved up the west coast of India toward Mumbai, our next stop was the state of Goa.

We docked in Marmagao. The heat was visible.

Mama and I hired a cab to take us to the capital of Goa, Panaji. It was a SPEEDY and wild ride, as cabs tend to be in India.

As it was the Hindu festival of Holi, only the Muslim stores were open. But our driver took us to Blooming Dales ( I kid you not), where we were able to engage in some retail therapy.

Holi is a day where Hindus run around throwing brightly colored paint and water on each other. I had great fun photographing the participants.

(so much so I'll have a whole post of photos next!)

Soon, we were headed back to the ship.

Crystal Serenity was docked in the industrial area of the harbor (not unusual, given her size). Next to us was an ore processing station of some sort, which I found very interesting.

We went for tea in the Bistro, only to find our friend Chuck had (not surprisingly) been out "playing holi".

All too soon, we set sail for Mumbai.

Dinner that night was one of pictures and saying "goodbye for now"--

Kemal and Leo, my waiters

Goran and Martin as well.

Adding Guiseppe (who makes the best Caesar Salad and Crepes Suzettes anywhere!) and Mama

My friend Sven and us...

(I didn't realize until now that we are BOTH wearing the same attire as the photo LAST year....)

Mama saying "bye" to dear friend Charlotte

And to beloved Branislav--"Big Bro" in our family!

Then it was back to packing and getting ready for Mumbai, Debarkation, and heading home!

Week 33 EP365

Almost on time for once!!

Here's Week 33 of EP365-- ENJOY!

Day 224 May 14, 2010
Gerbilicious!

Day 225 May 15, 2010
Saturday Night Jam Session

Day 226 May 16, 2010
Storm Coming

Day 227 May 17, 2010
Hooray Norway!

Day 228 May 18, 2010
Swarm

Day 229 May 19, 2010
Southern Essence

Day 230 May 20, 2010
Making Honey

WC2010- Cochin

This was not my first visit to Cochin, India. I arrived in Style two years ago (and have not equaled that thrill....still amazes me!)

Because on that visit, we had explored the river area of Cochin, we opted to tour Cochin proper.

Piles and piles of teak waiting for transport are individually cataloged.

In a matter of a few steps, Cochin streets range from clean

to trashed.

Some are disturbed by the sights of India, but I LOVE them all.

We visited the church where famous explorer Vasco Da Gama was originally laid to rest.

I found the floor tiles beautiful, and took many photos for future inspiration.

Outside, the street stalls led us to the seaside.

And along the way, I FINALLY saw that iconic image of India..a snake charmer.

My carving buddy and comedian Jeb Fink speculated with much hilarity on the learning curve of this job. And what would one start off with, a garden hose??