WC2010- Into Mumbai

As viewed from the decks of Serenity, this is where we were headed.



Two years and one terrorist attack had not seemed to change the city much.











Last visit- two years ago, there was scaffolding surrounding the Gateway of India, but not now.





While we waited a brief moment to go upstairs, I "kinneared" (took a secret snapshot) Odd Ivar Solvold, the world-famous Norwegian chef, whose cooking class I had attended on Crystal Serenity. He was taking a photo of his family.....



The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower was, as always, so warm and welcoming. We received the traditional blessings and welcome.





From our room, we could see Serenity.



We looked out the balcony. Evidently these balloons are the latest sales rage.



We had a drink in the bar on the first floor.



Unfortunately, the lovely bar on the second floor is still being repaired from the damage the terrorists did to it in November 2008.



That evening, as we left for the airport, Crystal Serenity was still in port. And a good thing...I hated watching her sail away two years ago.

WC2010- Leaving Crystal Serenity

That saddest of times of any Crystal Cruise finally arrived. The day we had to leave.



Mama with Sigi.



Notice something "off" about the swimming pool? We were docked.......



The flags had been hoisted for the "new" embarking guests.








All the veranda doors were opened for cleaning.



We were in no rush, so we watched the first guests depart.



Said "bye" to our beloved Nina, Big Bro's wife.



I checked in with the winos in the Bistro one last time.....(sniff, sniff...)





And sadly said "bye" to MY ship!!!

WC2010- Holi

As I said, I had so much fun taking photos of the participants in the Hindu Festival of Holi. Here are a few!



The one and only girl I saw participating!

















A town provided it's fire equipment to aid in the festivities.

























The port authority had even been out playing holi.



As had Chuck.

WC2010- Clyde

On sea days, Crystal Cruises provides so many entertainment choices, it is sometimes hard to choose. This year, I decided to participate in the afternoon art classes, and I am so glad I did.

Our Odyssey at Sea art instructor was Julie Warren Conn. She is an exceptional sculptor, and generously shared her talents with us.

I took to stone carving like a duck to water. So much, so I ordered tools when I got home, and have been having fun working on a few pieces..still works in progress.

I picked out my piece of Montana alabaster, which was tinted a slight jade color. I quickly decided it needed a name, so the rock became known as "Clyde" as in Bonnie and Clyde.

Now I must tell you that Grumpy Guy's oldest sister had a best friend for over 50 years. She was an artist of all media, but I remember her most as a sculptor. She died a few months before I went on my cruise. As I learned the rudiments of sculpting from Julie, I felt that Viretta was guiding me as well. So much so, that, when I looked at my finished piece, I saw Viretta's flowing blonde hair--and angel wings...so "Clyde" became known as "Viretta".......

Here's the evolution of "Viretta"......



One side


Other side