tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62067296876554615342024-03-19T03:59:19.075-07:0050 Bloggin' DaysClaire Baldry's Travel Blog in aid of Diabetes UKClairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.comBlogger81125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-38001584594602985772012-05-18T14:15:00.002-07:002012-05-18T14:19:41.356-07:00Day 50 Ketchikan and Farewell<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At 10.00 am this morning the Diamond Princess docked
alongside the pier in Ketchikan for our final stop in Alaska. The sun was
shining, and we took wallets ashore to spend our final American dollars before
we leave for Canada.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ketchikan is a traditional Alaskan town full of wooden
buildings and local handicrafts which celebrate the ethnic heritage of the
region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A funicular railway ascends the
steep hillside, and waterfalls and walkways are landscaped into the slopes.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The harbour and
dockside are set against a background of snow capped peaks and tiny sea planes.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sorry, no photos today...the ship's internet is being difficult! I'll add them later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This last port of
call coincides with the final and 50th post of my charity challenge, ’50
Bloggin’ Days’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To those of you who have
regularly clicked on these pages, I say thank you. The blog has now received
over 9000 hits and will hopefully reach 10,000 by the time we return home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you have already donated to my justgiving charity page,
or are intending to do so, I send you my sincere gratitude on behalf of the growing
number of people worldwide who benefit from continuing research in improving
the treatment of Diabetes. This chronic condition did not prevent Chris from
enjoying an amazing trip, though we did experience a few near catastrophes
along the way!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When we return to England, I will write at least one final
post with links to more photos and an index of pages. Feel free to contact me
through the blog comments section or another site if you have any questions
about the ship, our ports of call, or travelling with Diabetes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please donate by clicking on </span><a href="http://www.justgiving.com/ClaireBaldry"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.justgiving.com/ClaireBaldry</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-92126049651498578402012-05-17T10:02:00.001-07:002012-05-17T10:02:07.563-07:00Day 49 Watching the Whales<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Juneau is the capital of Alaska. Like many Alaskan towns it
is only accessible by plane or ferry. If you drive out of town for 7 miles, you
will reach a barrier and a sign which reads ‘End of the Road’.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The town is famous
for the Birdman of Alcatraz, the Red Dog Saloon, and, of course, Sarah Pallin. Our
ship docked close to town, and we would happily have spent a few hours
wandering around the many tourist shops and attractions.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82ZIVLZ1psZxb4kd1bmqX69Hw7jbx4Ux2U5BwEZZuMMaLfzArK3I5hnmRm34T2KcZYg1umXleryCijJW4w34wGcJJAOG3zVrzp_HLLlaGTHHKsuGPJ-qlXOWNpjPkEYfsioKcRmQXe-c/s1600/Juneau+Shops.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82ZIVLZ1psZxb4kd1bmqX69Hw7jbx4Ux2U5BwEZZuMMaLfzArK3I5hnmRm34T2KcZYg1umXleryCijJW4w34wGcJJAOG3zVrzp_HLLlaGTHHKsuGPJ-qlXOWNpjPkEYfsioKcRmQXe-c/s320/Juneau+Shops.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But we had booked what appeared to be an exorbitantly overpriced
Princess trip to watch the whales. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On average it rains for 220 days in Juneau. Being so early
in the season, we were fortunate indeed to climb onto a coach in sunshine. The
coach took us the 5 miles to our ‘whale watching’ vessel. I had expected to
embark a chilly and exposed water craft overcrowded with camera yielding
passengers. The reality was far better. We found ourselves on a 2 storey,
spacious, glass protected catamaran. There were only about 50 of us onboard a
vessel designed to hold 250. With free tea and coffee and generous use off
binoculars, we set off comfortably into Auk Bay.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBYJTU1TGJuB2F6h6sBpfl556j8upRAfc8bHr5aubO5kCuB8JfK8jz8JdAgSFeU35vTjINplwrGfgZ9nKlPRnl7SSY5dHjDpV0jw9D_g-jviufWQ1HMuG3FWE6h0ik81YepeS6ieEIxg/s1600/Cat+with+Duck.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBYJTU1TGJuB2F6h6sBpfl556j8upRAfc8bHr5aubO5kCuB8JfK8jz8JdAgSFeU35vTjINplwrGfgZ9nKlPRnl7SSY5dHjDpV0jw9D_g-jviufWQ1HMuG3FWE6h0ik81YepeS6ieEIxg/s320/Cat+with+Duck.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The opitical zoom on my medium priced Fuji camera reaches a
maximum of 18x. This was barely sufficient for the next 3 hours, but, thanks to
my cheap portable bendy mini tripod (which I would recommend as a purchase), I
did manage to focus a few photos on the experience which followed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A Bald Eagle</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sea Lions</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdKRg0WvWp-idtziJXDLghvloRKv-turExwT4Ot3VtJ6vt2tX_3aS15qq9aTyCSZYjaMyBaebr4KE7pTGiVspY2rfasJZK0H6jkp2M-lQ6qzInvFd0rUA5KALGzYYAeazLxFn9nrT42c/s1600/Sea+Lions.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdKRg0WvWp-idtziJXDLghvloRKv-turExwT4Ot3VtJ6vt2tX_3aS15qq9aTyCSZYjaMyBaebr4KE7pTGiVspY2rfasJZK0H6jkp2M-lQ6qzInvFd0rUA5KALGzYYAeazLxFn9nrT42c/s320/Sea+Lions.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And now for the whales....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hump Back Whales are longer in size <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>than a coach. The ones we saw spend their
winters in Hawaii giving birth to young, then head off to Alaskan feeding
grounds for the summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first indication of their presence is a misty spout, as
the whales exhale air and water in their approach to the surface. The boat then
goes silent and we wait. A whale can dive for over 10 minutes and we have no
idea where it will resurface. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSFSGliIjc8cNrb4kzPKyqrbb6BCsNYr9yqI0W1cZXPG9V_kY6RE42HqNjal42Tf6z_PR-SCEvoN-D7HiaKOXS-QfToOBCHhb2CVTsjM8HtDw1GOMMhBv8PLTvExqg0_TapVknViwz5ss/s1600/Whale+and+spout.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSFSGliIjc8cNrb4kzPKyqrbb6BCsNYr9yqI0W1cZXPG9V_kY6RE42HqNjal42Tf6z_PR-SCEvoN-D7HiaKOXS-QfToOBCHhb2CVTsjM8HtDw1GOMMhBv8PLTvExqg0_TapVknViwz5ss/s320/Whale+and+spout.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Someone points to movement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A dark shape appears on the surface of the water. We snap
our cameras and hope we have caught the scene.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALJbsNOnZp014DO9uiZyFoFy06cAt8qB7sIDbadFB0gi2jiPvCkTeHNLC1WiVO1oV9SEBXFi4IAP21PVtATdVMF0p6e9fi2Rzic7bI7dgwAWcrNiIb286ROyhSC4vNje1FEV_1EBEGqo/s1600/Body.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALJbsNOnZp014DO9uiZyFoFy06cAt8qB7sIDbadFB0gi2jiPvCkTeHNLC1WiVO1oV9SEBXFi4IAP21PVtATdVMF0p6e9fi2Rzic7bI7dgwAWcrNiIb286ROyhSC4vNje1FEV_1EBEGqo/s320/Body.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The shape turns into a fin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The fin turns into a tail.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The whale descends into the depths and the cycle starts
again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Conservation rules prevent us from watching the same whale
for too long, so we move on every 30 minutes. The time passes extremely
quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Unmissable! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-58663090576201444112012-05-15T19:30:00.001-07:002012-05-15T19:30:09.436-07:00Day 48 Close Up with a Glacier<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you have not yet put Alaska on your ‘must do’ list, fetch
a pen and update that list now.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is the reason.</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We entered Yakatak Bay at 12.30 pm today and sailed slowly
into the bay until we reached the Hubbard Glacier. The rain had cleared, and
sunlight reflected on the glassy seas. It was chilly...gloves, hat, leggings
under trousers, 2 pairs of socks....And I stood outside in the icy Alaskan sunshine
all afternoon mesmerised by the views. The Captain had manoeuvred the ship as
close as possible to the Hubbard Glacier. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0kxKKd0KWBHe5qp5Xr9B04uYO_yOXZ1QUSHMv9k65b8IA9NdgkEsGmLNrIzn-74uH5J5DQVkwahUtTs4kyIFBzQ5YLXf64lCLPPM53OqC-iNnhA9HAsFZvUyErh-a7PxpyqcPraGTU4E/s1600/Hubbard+Glacier.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0kxKKd0KWBHe5qp5Xr9B04uYO_yOXZ1QUSHMv9k65b8IA9NdgkEsGmLNrIzn-74uH5J5DQVkwahUtTs4kyIFBzQ5YLXf64lCLPPM53OqC-iNnhA9HAsFZvUyErh-a7PxpyqcPraGTU4E/s320/Hubbard+Glacier.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pieces of ice crackled on the surface like a bowl of Rice Krispies.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We felt so close to the cloudy mountain tips, I wanted to
reach out and touch them. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjndKMQkNQwtHuNiCnhyphenhyphenNcz6DK1uk38fUARc4jQYJQLfxxkhA98PUW4-EDfY3dYhZjRhc7qnIjuvjFAH78_wZuc9MZ91Ctkel8tINDVaN5sHpPGKVDDMku22gtoDsmS-Qku6n15n1Yh8c/s1600/Cloudy+Tips.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjndKMQkNQwtHuNiCnhyphenhyphenNcz6DK1uk38fUARc4jQYJQLfxxkhA98PUW4-EDfY3dYhZjRhc7qnIjuvjFAH78_wZuc9MZ91Ctkel8tINDVaN5sHpPGKVDDMku22gtoDsmS-Qku6n15n1Yh8c/s320/Cloudy+Tips.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Save up your pennies and visit Alaska. You will not be
disappointed.</span><br />Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-88854990268364570422012-05-15T17:20:00.000-07:002012-05-15T17:29:44.662-07:00Day 47 A Taste of Alaska<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In 1964 a massive earthquake rocked the east coast of
Alaska. The consequent Tsunami destroyed half the houses in Seward killing 75
people. Despite this tragedy, a community of just over 2000 residents has
thrived in the little Alaskan town of Seward. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was here that we docked yesterday, surrounded by snow
capped mountains and clear reflective waters.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-nswWVZxg07Tw_ao6ng4WnHr6ogC2hL27EaNjscZaoHzAmpCVuzC2qaKtgmyQdu96upLQy8V5t5OUUnMAY18tfR8IeGmp2sEDmEQpCLotvIwBa468JHpk9Ja8DL9Je1e9ZXdYmQJ9hs/s1600/Water+and+Mountain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-nswWVZxg07Tw_ao6ng4WnHr6ogC2hL27EaNjscZaoHzAmpCVuzC2qaKtgmyQdu96upLQy8V5t5OUUnMAY18tfR8IeGmp2sEDmEQpCLotvIwBa468JHpk9Ja8DL9Je1e9ZXdYmQJ9hs/s320/Water+and+Mountain.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">his was the first cruise ship visit of the season, and our
arrival temporarily doubled the population the town. Traditional wooden
churches and veranda fronted shops filled the main street in downtown<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seward. We wandered happily buying souvenirs
and gifts which will probably look a lot less attractive when we return to
Sussex. I asked the seller in the bookshop if they were pleased to see so many
visitors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s sure been a long dull
winter” she replied. “We’re pleased to our little ‘ole town wake up”.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWe-d1HmeJNUYehdyT-aUvFpHnUAgrsFC8uuvu_WSK_PZfj6kzCh3YjZ-jWf01Ix5zF5zwkekNOmYzRTwqn9TcL1I6jbWt5v8a3SW4kNBYMyhuIwmeQ28TYujoPCXiYdcBNCur8pEbgtU/s1600/Street.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWe-d1HmeJNUYehdyT-aUvFpHnUAgrsFC8uuvu_WSK_PZfj6kzCh3YjZ-jWf01Ix5zF5zwkekNOmYzRTwqn9TcL1I6jbWt5v8a3SW4kNBYMyhuIwmeQ28TYujoPCXiYdcBNCur8pEbgtU/s320/Street.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As we sailed out in the early evening, the scenery grew in
stature.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7hqPCOHsxwC7T9-U6SlNMkRTIw3IB9AnWkS95aBoiNFZ3Q17T10SVc0ulq7hVn-2qwLgdtdeZkHzNLDeDbl06jQ6XgoPdSO-qCA4wU2z3za8yN9Cy32_No9DD4vQiAEWhI2QvpLHAl0/s1600/Seward+090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7hqPCOHsxwC7T9-U6SlNMkRTIw3IB9AnWkS95aBoiNFZ3Q17T10SVc0ulq7hVn-2qwLgdtdeZkHzNLDeDbl06jQ6XgoPdSO-qCA4wU2z3za8yN9Cy32_No9DD4vQiAEWhI2QvpLHAl0/s320/Seward+090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Daylight continued
until after 9pm and several whale spouts were visible in the distance as we ate
our dinner.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For a first ever taste of Alaska, this visit was compelling</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-29750969552450744322012-05-13T23:26:00.002-07:002012-05-13T23:26:38.313-07:00Day 46 Snow<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It snowed all night. Small, persistent flakes showered the
ship. We awoke to find an inch or more on our balcony. At breakfast a crew team
were busy clearing the snow from the open decks. It is hard to rationalise
during 4 weeks the difference between temperatures over 35 deg in Bangkok and
the -2 deg, we are currently feeling. We have experienced a world of weather.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is currently 2 pm ship’s time, midnight in the UK. The
snow has started to fall again and looks set to continue. We are already
planning our layers of clothing for Seward tomorrow. The sea is very calm, with
excellent visibility despite the snow. Every so often I grab my coat and camera
and set foot outside. Land has now disappeared but my whale count has risen to
3 spouts, 1 fin, and a large tail ( all separate sightings).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We expect to be passing the Alaskan Island of
Kodiak shortly before entering Resurrection Bay very early tomorrow morning.
</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4Ni4JkMrzwuUJSe14i4BOljPAzX7ZtszT9FgaZP_nKQTqkcc5MF3h48N2UQGhMDwsLWzk319uYZCt3CUCNmToIQB22OrFL4BU9G0gbpxZCbWH9CVHOt7xVKtxCnrG3yMAaVuAGlRGKA/s1600/Island+View.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4Ni4JkMrzwuUJSe14i4BOljPAzX7ZtszT9FgaZP_nKQTqkcc5MF3h48N2UQGhMDwsLWzk319uYZCt3CUCNmToIQB22OrFL4BU9G0gbpxZCbWH9CVHOt7xVKtxCnrG3yMAaVuAGlRGKA/s320/Island+View.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our longitude is 56 deg North and the daylight hours are extended. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sunrise will be at<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>5.19 am. The clocks go forward another hour
tonight. I am undecided whether or not to set the alarm!</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-645327717768072772012-05-12T21:25:00.003-07:002012-05-12T21:25:50.479-07:00Day 45 Peaks and Spouts<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After 4<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>full days at
sea in very calm water without sight of land, we began to empathise with the
Ancient Mariner. There are only so many Trivia Quizzes, a person can tolerate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then at 11 am this morning, the officer of the watch
announced a whale sighting on the port side. I grabbed my camera and rushed
downstairs to the outside promenade deck in the freezing cold with no coat.
There they were....3 water spouts bursting from the ocean at a considerable
distance. No photo was possible, but I have technically seen my first whale.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Within minutes, land appeared on the horizon, numerous snow
capped peaks which have emerged in the view from our balcony....these are the
Aleution Islands. Wow!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3Tq1zV9sLuJjH-hQfwWXTR76_jACR_9me-POoZKOr4-Otu0PMJXo2CIp1TReyHkR1INpEnkykydZR-wV3fEW63nowsgrDJVkpRwwyEcVNtsHnacSl_i0gXNbZ8eldffoAfZWf8lA7TQ/s1600/Aleution+Snow.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3Tq1zV9sLuJjH-hQfwWXTR76_jACR_9me-POoZKOr4-Otu0PMJXo2CIp1TReyHkR1INpEnkykydZR-wV3fEW63nowsgrDJVkpRwwyEcVNtsHnacSl_i0gXNbZ8eldffoAfZWf8lA7TQ/s400/Aleution+Snow.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are currently sailing due East just North of the islands
ready to enter the Unimak Passage which links the Pacific Ocean to The Bering
Sea. The temperature is barely above freezing, but I am now prepared. My camera
is charged up, and my coat and hat and gloves are lying in wait by the balcony
door in case Mr Whale pays a second call. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZHeHHxd3bAcAt85cxb0ggccnJrOeYlQ17Nu1FAONOAzKrd05-j58ODSDZaoWtjolOcQQ8MJ-v8Iydd01-8pdIWSm2Uc1V5ZpyG_fLh5_aqzjZbYr8u56CGDAVG7QUAED_CPEfLAyuac/s1600/Snow+Clothes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZHeHHxd3bAcAt85cxb0ggccnJrOeYlQ17Nu1FAONOAzKrd05-j58ODSDZaoWtjolOcQQ8MJ-v8Iydd01-8pdIWSm2Uc1V5ZpyG_fLh5_aqzjZbYr8u56CGDAVG7QUAED_CPEfLAyuac/s320/Snow+Clothes.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-17961254432728130052012-05-12T16:53:00.002-07:002012-05-12T16:53:44.443-07:00Day 44 Cruise Food<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Everyone knows that the food on cruise ships is generous and
of high quality. Diamond Princess is no exception, though it appeals more to me
than to Chris, in so far as there is a particularly good selection of fish and
oriental food.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At lunchtime there is a choice of restaurant service, burger
or pizza bar, extensive cooked and cold buffet, and daily speciality buffet on
sea days.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We did not try the ‘pay extra’ dining options, but In the
evening, those guests on flexible dining have a choice of 4 included restaurants.
Each venue has the same basic menu, a daily a la carte range, and one restaurant
speciality. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, the ‘Pacific
Moon’ speciality is scallops and noodles. The full menus can be downloaded from
the Princess website, but here are a couple of tasters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A smoked salmon starter with potato pancakes </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20KimzhSOna103MGOAqOcKoZSH-S1V6BbHl1rKUy8pG4Br1YmwqXXfS-Z5vX2NEq1URtNSDRf10ml4O8LCcEC6nA15RpFuLqbq_LXHu2P4swvnZ8N3VVL4-CXQaRjR0D_aYu_tWr6Mtc/s1600/Smoked+Salmon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20KimzhSOna103MGOAqOcKoZSH-S1V6BbHl1rKUy8pG4Br1YmwqXXfS-Z5vX2NEq1URtNSDRf10ml4O8LCcEC6nA15RpFuLqbq_LXHu2P4swvnZ8N3VVL4-CXQaRjR0D_aYu_tWr6Mtc/s320/Smoked+Salmon.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Citrus souffle</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmid2zzbhLRXDO5etRIMco9Mg2EER5bMCmnMf_kCdSd1AuMCG_YDo91l45qKPflnxlaKWNm9f4Lx9vUWCuWZKjQQEFH7rEHfx4azZbPAewMI55QBVQmhw-7W-63p2REWDzf01h_6ndlE/s1600/Souffle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmid2zzbhLRXDO5etRIMco9Mg2EER5bMCmnMf_kCdSd1AuMCG_YDo91l45qKPflnxlaKWNm9f4Lx9vUWCuWZKjQQEFH7rEHfx4azZbPAewMI55QBVQmhw-7W-63p2REWDzf01h_6ndlE/s320/Souffle.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-67782192508259605822012-05-12T14:20:00.003-07:002012-05-12T14:20:49.945-07:00Day 43 Sir Francis Drake on TV<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When the ship docked in Beijing, the passenger profile
changed significantly....more Canadians and Chinese, less Americans and
Brazilians, and even fewer Brits. It’s difficult to generalise the changes
without stereotyping the range of nationalities, but the ship seemed to grow
quieter, but far busier. Board game playing and formal wear increased. I was
fascinated by the tables of Majong which emerged every morning by the pool.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4QvNcmVyRQhEU5rE_UeGYuDZ9QW29Haxq2KLcHHVXeiplIrNl3KVjEqA3khGVvXsZcjwBi3RWZRqhcnipAgn9whRET_IdlgmDnY2UnlzQ4wxvlmqxzxvuzVY4Ha3hsus3JQ6teshezw/s1600/Majong.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4QvNcmVyRQhEU5rE_UeGYuDZ9QW29Haxq2KLcHHVXeiplIrNl3KVjEqA3khGVvXsZcjwBi3RWZRqhcnipAgn9whRET_IdlgmDnY2UnlzQ4wxvlmqxzxvuzVY4Ha3hsus3JQ6teshezw/s320/Majong.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our entertainment continued largely unchanged. I went
swimming every day until the temperature dropped, and we met regularly for
trivia. We have never considered the onboard entertainment a great strength of
Princess, but occasional entertainers stood out, especially the hypnotist (how
does he do that?) and some acceptable, but not outstanding, comedy. For us,
surprisingly, the highlight of the entertainment has been the daily ‘Wake Show’
led by the Cruise Director and his deputy.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gyf8_CSVolnEQTpyhjDBRaQT6JYeBjSoh7kWDjSU4JtYpQ48K-YREbeI-YibadhAchzyoqNf4rvHJlusrrU10dt3XAEoR_l-C20zxBAHuuF_yGdewRTy4Zn6z3GML6SHl-xyp_zUBrg/s1600/KM.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gyf8_CSVolnEQTpyhjDBRaQT6JYeBjSoh7kWDjSU4JtYpQ48K-YREbeI-YibadhAchzyoqNf4rvHJlusrrU10dt3XAEoR_l-C20zxBAHuuF_yGdewRTy4Zn6z3GML6SHl-xyp_zUBrg/s320/KM.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These 2 are such
naturally funny people, and they make each and every passenger feel special
without patronising or belittling anyone. Each day they hold a daily quiz
question, either a music theme or a lateral thinking problem. One day Chris
signed himself ‘Sir Francis Drake’ after our ‘duck’ blog mascot and Sir Francis
was invited on to the show. The result is in video, and I will download the result when I can find some free wifi.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Other highlights for us have been the wide range of up to
date films on TV and in the theatre....but not (in this weather) ‘Movies Under
the Stars’.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ96B5WUMEoZIgrgtBVthUbebGzGlJx1Hu-SCFX4KYj3xRYv0OxgePdA6MOXc2_3BEdrStSY9CjlphRADSlaiwqE00IX4gCMzoNQ0JqdGwXBMtC8_5tVxaGhJ1Hii6669UliDHsnRmBGk/s1600/MUS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ96B5WUMEoZIgrgtBVthUbebGzGlJx1Hu-SCFX4KYj3xRYv0OxgePdA6MOXc2_3BEdrStSY9CjlphRADSlaiwqE00IX4gCMzoNQ0JqdGwXBMtC8_5tVxaGhJ1Hii6669UliDHsnRmBGk/s320/MUS.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-56199959541604382112012-05-11T03:59:00.000-07:002012-05-11T15:09:35.925-07:00Day 42 Crossing the International Dateline<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since we left Japan 3 days ago, the ship’s clocks have moved
forward one hour daily. This will continue until we reach Alaska on 14<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
May. Today at 8pm, in the middle of this time transition, we crossed the
International Dateline. (9 am UK time).</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today our time moved
back 24 hours so, in effect we repeated the 10<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> May and lived
through 2 Thursdays in succession. Confused? We were, but I think I’ve finally
got my mind around it. As an added element, UK time has now overtaken us, so
the UK is now 12 hours ahead, instead of 12 hours behind....easy to
explain...it used to be yesterday in the UK, but now it is tomorrow! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The poor crew get no extra payment for their additional
day’s work, but, when they do the journey in reverse (East to West) and lose a
day, their pay is not deducted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Unlike the Equator, there is no special ceremony for
crossing the International Dateline .There are no markers in the Ocean to
indicate its presence. However, we have also each received a special certificate
to celebrate. I shall add this to my Great Wall Certificate, and maybe find a
couple of photo frames and a piece of blank wall. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xkfLXTM5fC6zSh4jGr1P3u_lPnbP85164BAs29lFp8z9RSkHMmSGkKmObSj2HXFPxh9VrqDBQUvmD_dI5iUAL5VEPkNmxqCcxRs1fX0eVo2oTK4aMlFwmGBvx_XYipS6-VK9ftPnlFg/s1600/IDL2+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xkfLXTM5fC6zSh4jGr1P3u_lPnbP85164BAs29lFp8z9RSkHMmSGkKmObSj2HXFPxh9VrqDBQUvmD_dI5iUAL5VEPkNmxqCcxRs1fX0eVo2oTK4aMlFwmGBvx_XYipS6-VK9ftPnlFg/s320/IDL2+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-34425793281441741002012-05-10T18:01:00.001-07:002012-05-10T18:01:46.054-07:00Day 41 The Terrific Pacific<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have been incredibly lucky with the sea conditions so
far. Here we are in the middle of the deepest ocean in the world, over 200
miles from the nearest land, and the sea state is described as ‘slight’. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-lIuXnob-axbOyFuYpvWtd77XB_Dhp-3Iy2RWKmqLHGC31_dNqlxal_xrPcNG7yNeijV0_scVT5oesnRinwQd7c0MtI2TtMuR7Gcs8sC69cLt__m8Fo68Af_0sZ0cRFGML0o7VemO4c/s1600/Slight+Sea.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-lIuXnob-axbOyFuYpvWtd77XB_Dhp-3Iy2RWKmqLHGC31_dNqlxal_xrPcNG7yNeijV0_scVT5oesnRinwQd7c0MtI2TtMuR7Gcs8sC69cLt__m8Fo68Af_0sZ0cRFGML0o7VemO4c/s320/Slight+Sea.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is cold. The outside temperature at noon is just above
freezing, but there is very little wind and our balcony is protected in full
sun. It is possible to sit outside, albeit wearing a thick sweater!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The information on the cabin TV system is very good, with
maps and navigational data. We will finally cross the international dateline
this evening at 8 pm (8 am GMT).</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKIagilYYjAFlqcXM4T3mWTYrZPGy_2TMI2j_Tz2wQiHbZ5s7O5-5DMWKkaHgZDss1oV4fnzvNTaoFfeyzYMo0nDhk0svKHsCif6sbQyt5SJM4lAHjLkcoZAIBJULZS1RVQNZJA69vUac/s1600/TV+Map.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKIagilYYjAFlqcXM4T3mWTYrZPGy_2TMI2j_Tz2wQiHbZ5s7O5-5DMWKkaHgZDss1oV4fnzvNTaoFfeyzYMo0nDhk0svKHsCif6sbQyt5SJM4lAHjLkcoZAIBJULZS1RVQNZJA69vUac/s320/TV+Map.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have 3 more full sea days before reach Seward in Alaska. Internet
willing, I am planning further sea day posts on the following topics.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Two Thursdays, as we cross the international date line</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ships food</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Entertainment and the ‘Wake Show’, including a special
appearance on TV by our blog mascot, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sir
Francis Drake.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I should be able to include a few more pictures of the ship,
but will post full Picasa links on our return.</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-27243682401934561712012-05-09T00:41:00.002-07:002012-05-09T00:41:37.212-07:00Day 40 A Japanese Farewell<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is 2.30 pm (5.30 am UK time) and we are sailing in an
Easterly direction across the Pacific Ocean towards Alaska. We will now spend 6
days at sea, though only 5 dates, as we will experience 2 Thursdays when we
cross the International Dateline.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday, sadly, was our last stop in the Far East, and I am
already missing the wonderful culture and sights. The ‘cruise critic’ tour
which we took in Japan was amazing, even though the tour company didn’t quite grasp
the gender of our female cruise critic organiser.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pIDvs_Mu4FW8wHahcbBZbDw8ZNlyKdo_grq6minw6x6Y9jHH7vAE-aWX0IotfEgqkd_V_HzJenneidtu8WYv30PqE4nXj4mWeR7JKRSaJ8tsr-I0KRN88Yd5ihZARe7uHRGbTwBaTWA/s1600/Mr+Chris.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pIDvs_Mu4FW8wHahcbBZbDw8ZNlyKdo_grq6minw6x6Y9jHH7vAE-aWX0IotfEgqkd_V_HzJenneidtu8WYv30PqE4nXj4mWeR7JKRSaJ8tsr-I0KRN88Yd5ihZARe7uHRGbTwBaTWA/s320/Mr+Chris.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The day started onboard with a compulsory thermal imaging
scan for all passengers by the Japanese authorities to check we were not
bringing any deadly viruses into the country. Thankfully we all passed despite
the hot flushes of anxiety as we walked past the sensor, and the men in white <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>masks.</span><br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiVxgVswHqAa91MSh-AzEdE09TQgJ0R9OF1j9Lr49-oLDB-f_MyiJQ-h9VfdDFkwKjCyJ_UN5oguDTEv-x9nFnSKWPi9DqeEwDxi0d7ltYnlCZABExBpYK_gO2qEny4-c00CTIFUV3pzk/s1600/Quarantine.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiVxgVswHqAa91MSh-AzEdE09TQgJ0R9OF1j9Lr49-oLDB-f_MyiJQ-h9VfdDFkwKjCyJ_UN5oguDTEv-x9nFnSKWPi9DqeEwDxi0d7ltYnlCZABExBpYK_gO2qEny4-c00CTIFUV3pzk/s320/Quarantine.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our ship had docked in Muroran, on the Southern tip of the
North Japanese island of Hokkaido, and our day led us through a magnificent
range of experiences and entertainment.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We visited the restored Ainu village and learned about the former
lives of the indigenous people of of the Tohoku region. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnMC5OFt_DkJgSVHrkEeI0akrj-GKQgsYEMIPpmsD-HIkJBWGNZCndKC8TG_oa9bRoXrUJgVF_3QBw-RPoJ-CVeqD2QGhEeK1sWMK7-_tr58ywZt733rqz7vjzNjyjaXGn0v5ySzDzak/s1600/Ainu.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnMC5OFt_DkJgSVHrkEeI0akrj-GKQgsYEMIPpmsD-HIkJBWGNZCndKC8TG_oa9bRoXrUJgVF_3QBw-RPoJ-CVeqD2QGhEeK1sWMK7-_tr58ywZt733rqz7vjzNjyjaXGn0v5ySzDzak/s320/Ainu.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We breathed in Sulphur as we walked along paths in ‘Hell
Valley’ Hot Springs.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLlpdZ-MeWmx962LPBgqQ5qlDq7QEl0DSAnRcS7OFRlJx3DP9nP0MMF-8E5IVeh0SPPtiYx07BMEA13TxI9rpkxI_53T-nF9ehlQsc7KpuZtD73gAz9BzK7FRMWzHrs4nbojh1gUNsc4/s1600/Hell+Valley.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLlpdZ-MeWmx962LPBgqQ5qlDq7QEl0DSAnRcS7OFRlJx3DP9nP0MMF-8E5IVeh0SPPtiYx07BMEA13TxI9rpkxI_53T-nF9ehlQsc7KpuZtD73gAz9BzK7FRMWzHrs4nbojh1gUNsc4/s320/Hell+Valley.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This was followed by a traditional hot buffet lunch of
noodles, soup and a range of dishes. I have no idea what was on my plate, but
it tasted delicious, and my chopstick skills are improving.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our next stop was to take the cable car up to the top of
Mount Usu. From there we climbed in thin air to the rim of the volcano and
stared into the smouldering crater.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The outlook over Lake Toya was breathtaking. My photos do
not do justice to the view.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-h3I-Nb9yHUmmHy23GNweg7qgnsqDLZ11ri55f2vIngX1yNtZbInanb4wkxsbxuzqz0CYqxwE58WfiQkLYNulV2lj1vvBAySAalg43jEC4K9TC85Q3F_OnvYr11zt4Sol7QH_iADxyw/s1600/Lake+Usu.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-h3I-Nb9yHUmmHy23GNweg7qgnsqDLZ11ri55f2vIngX1yNtZbInanb4wkxsbxuzqz0CYqxwE58WfiQkLYNulV2lj1vvBAySAalg43jEC4K9TC85Q3F_OnvYr11zt4Sol7QH_iADxyw/s320/Lake+Usu.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I loved Japan. It felt secure and friendly. The housing was
well developed, though mostly much closer together than in similar areas in the
UK. The devastation of the Tsunami was in our minds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our return to the ship coincided with a local dockside ceremony
led by the mayor to say farewell to the ship before she set sail for Alaska.
Diamond Princess only visits this part of Japan twice a year, and the Japanese gave
a very strong welcoming message.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6pQ00vz8ukBza-O5daJoAmBDV9aNAlZX4-Wl9_2KEtKYiEvpC-k1hlR9nEU75uOwinBlS_0CTccfB2Z_cp_lkJw6IYgvwDBC2LmYeqlxQlLpQnZskoMkr_8RzaFNnvojD2kbFiFZ1wZk/s1600/Leaving.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6pQ00vz8ukBza-O5daJoAmBDV9aNAlZX4-Wl9_2KEtKYiEvpC-k1hlR9nEU75uOwinBlS_0CTccfB2Z_cp_lkJw6IYgvwDBC2LmYeqlxQlLpQnZskoMkr_8RzaFNnvojD2kbFiFZ1wZk/s320/Leaving.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So that’s it for now....goodbye Far East and no land in sight
for 4 days at least. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More about the ship tomorrow. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-27042908319538892132012-05-06T17:30:00.002-07:002012-05-06T21:04:24.161-07:00Day 39 KIndles and Internet in the Far East<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Before lose internet access in the Far East, I am adding
this post as a reminder so I can answer questions when we return home.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wifi internet access was available (at a cost) at all times
onboard except when we were in Japanese waters. Free wifi<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>was available in cafes in most ports, also in
Vladivostock station and the port in Pusan, South Korea. Facebook and Google
were never blocked by the ship’s wifi system but were not always accessible on
shore.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The ship’s wifi was quite slow, but we had 1000 free minutes
for 35 days, which was just about sufficient for downloading my daily blog with
photos, and paying a very quick visit to my email, facebook, and occasional
other sites.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My 3G kindle could access the Amazon shop in every far East
Port, except Vladivostock. I could also use it to view my email account in
Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand. Kindle email could not be opened in China,
South Korea, Russia, and Japan.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think that covers it. I’m now off to visit the Japanese
Immigration Point. Japanese Officers are onboard and they need every passenger’s
fingerprints (again) before we disembark tomorrow.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’ll be back with post 40 in about 2 days time.</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-92123056069319821122012-05-06T03:38:00.001-07:002012-05-06T03:38:18.243-07:00Day 38 From Russia With Love<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For the first time since we left the UK, Chris wore a jumper
this morning. Cooler temperatures and light rain swirled around us as the ship
docked adjacent to the Trans Siberian railway line in Vladivostock. We have
reached the far eastern tip of Russia. It takes 7 days to reach Moscow from
here by train. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzBztPB7h6j6iHjXUUYXqUcLaMQTb5bi8xR0napxZ71B0YDeGQfDq7rKp4YFZbu2bVnHACeFGhx2GVy3hDpau1arhzw3FSVJLlBhJms8ixSdPCC3iAojUs4vROOKQ6bq1gotYDjeFLBk0/s1600/Ship+++Trans+Sib.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzBztPB7h6j6iHjXUUYXqUcLaMQTb5bi8xR0napxZ71B0YDeGQfDq7rKp4YFZbu2bVnHACeFGhx2GVy3hDpau1arhzw3FSVJLlBhJms8ixSdPCC3iAojUs4vROOKQ6bq1gotYDjeFLBk0/s320/Ship+++Trans+Sib.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m so <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>glad that I
visited lovely St Petersburg on an earlier holiday. Vladivostock is different,
very remote, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>dismal even. It does not
show its home country to advantage .Having booked a Princess tour we are taken
by coach to a local museum. The first set of exhibits are<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘ancient books’, mostly copies, housed in
rooms full of Ikea type display cases. The labels are all in Russian. I normally
enjoy museums, but this one tests my concentration to its furthest limit.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnwkdd11E8KlfQpiaBZr-bONUC-6KJZ4j-4eBAuiSBw7q0hUqgT9YvSTIoNObagykwy6JmmDRnUqQ2nz8tzdLz_f2mStyp-rx2Cc234KzRaQJu06osTAAirYEAlSGFW-iWndHjvk0kmM/s1600/Museum+Display.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnwkdd11E8KlfQpiaBZr-bONUC-6KJZ4j-4eBAuiSBw7q0hUqgT9YvSTIoNObagykwy6JmmDRnUqQ2nz8tzdLz_f2mStyp-rx2Cc234KzRaQJu06osTAAirYEAlSGFW-iWndHjvk0kmM/s320/Museum+Display.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then the curator
approaches me (why me?) with an exercise book and asks me to write my comments
on the museum. I scribe a few polite words and sign myself ‘Claire from the
UK’.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our next stop is to an ‘unmissable’ viewing point at the top
of a steep hill. We are led up flights of steps to see what is described as a
spectacular view. It is far reaching and we can see the extent of the town and
harbour. The Russians are building a new road <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>bridge in time for next year’s Asia/Pacific
summit.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB54R3_fOsH_VmjrzoUpaUcgFn342IR8MJFteEMtiJIfGlhHL6QXJcOJQ09G-uvePOjbUo37pVnbtOPWRZQgBmu8bvAxOtanvcVxRSt7gEDp11jHCVVIjsmvox9rZTa5pFdRw4E2gzUEM/s1600/View+++Road.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB54R3_fOsH_VmjrzoUpaUcgFn342IR8MJFteEMtiJIfGlhHL6QXJcOJQ09G-uvePOjbUo37pVnbtOPWRZQgBmu8bvAxOtanvcVxRSt7gEDp11jHCVVIjsmvox9rZTa5pFdRw4E2gzUEM/s320/View+++Road.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Investment in smaller
infrastructure is less obvious. The steps up to the view point are hazardous
and in desperate need of maintenance. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15FAg-yJBdnJ27gE5i_TjhCUSh7Soo1DrHOm1dzVCXato9VwnOpnip3Wz9PDglLOJa5-ERi8NusM1HSw_gQ3WwaEooPAhF9Z0HPM1k5wuQn2VLFOF3avZ-MsVpQguWP3GAA_kg19pzvU/s1600/Broken+steps.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15FAg-yJBdnJ27gE5i_TjhCUSh7Soo1DrHOm1dzVCXato9VwnOpnip3Wz9PDglLOJa5-ERi8NusM1HSw_gQ3WwaEooPAhF9Z0HPM1k5wuQn2VLFOF3avZ-MsVpQguWP3GAA_kg19pzvU/s320/Broken+steps.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm1stELKtScyFO4NOd8MjjJmOZLZZDrHRS2SlwuI5O0aBHpS5iid5kDrlq6WudZBU8vQrdg_XHcris4wv998HlrMuqfyGd-V8crjkqJkC0Oi3aUV5wAIPikS8gTr8J1Zhx8bjHFzHFI-E/s1600/Roadsweeper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm1stELKtScyFO4NOd8MjjJmOZLZZDrHRS2SlwuI5O0aBHpS5iid5kDrlq6WudZBU8vQrdg_XHcris4wv998HlrMuqfyGd-V8crjkqJkC0Oi3aUV5wAIPikS8gTr8J1Zhx8bjHFzHFI-E/s320/Roadsweeper.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our final call is by far the most interesting. The submarine
museum allows visitors to walk inside the length of a Soviet submarine. We see
missile launchers, periscopes and narrow bunk beds. Submariner Baldry<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>gets to issue instructions through the
speaking tube.</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tomorrow we will begin our journey towards the North of
Japan. At some point we will once again lose internet connection, so this may
be my last blog post for a couple of days. </span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">See you in the Pacific!</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-29115226702498492052012-05-05T04:18:00.001-07:002012-05-05T04:18:22.366-07:00Day 37 Impressions of China<span style="font-family: Calibri;">During our travels we have visited China 3 times. The brief opinions
which we have received from our tour guides have been mixed .It is unclear how
much the central messages really influence their commentary, but it appears
that central control is strong. It is also obvious that rural communities are
much poorer than urban ones. However, they also have more freedom, in so far as
they can to some extent avoid ‘the rules’ (for example by the size of their families).
I can only describe my observations through pictures:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Smog</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Limited Health and Safety</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx6LOO7dNIz30aYAYMYeipQnk5DjVs6tsvt_rug3tlDx-64GOb9rWbD-rhQa4IDUCVTKSVOcq1LdZ9XgECWX6TMPaGRIO0WVoIMocuqw67YE7M0khBEIap_AOQkNN9z9l-4lJyl05Jni8/s1600/Limited+Health+and+Safety.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx6LOO7dNIz30aYAYMYeipQnk5DjVs6tsvt_rug3tlDx-64GOb9rWbD-rhQa4IDUCVTKSVOcq1LdZ9XgECWX6TMPaGRIO0WVoIMocuqw67YE7M0khBEIap_AOQkNN9z9l-4lJyl05Jni8/s320/Limited+Health+and+Safety.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Building Everywhere</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCkM-lrLBm5q9ct3PFEB-xI-UOHl5fnc0OIQNhrQczw_ibbqrfLCF5BPjVMQxf3lUAVBacQMxHbllTpBAgCPxEUpLQzeJAyK4oFW42SwnVfLsPn4famvUsFJBKTa_So-qqDreXrh6mMGk/s1600/Building+Everywhere.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCkM-lrLBm5q9ct3PFEB-xI-UOHl5fnc0OIQNhrQczw_ibbqrfLCF5BPjVMQxf3lUAVBacQMxHbllTpBAgCPxEUpLQzeJAyK4oFW42SwnVfLsPn4famvUsFJBKTa_So-qqDreXrh6mMGk/s320/Building+Everywhere.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rural Culture</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wonderful Architecture</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkIQiNa8nwkQhrpC4lirqR0_BNYl0iA4JLvRh79rdN2242Wr_3TnKYow5JOuwQTLlVbfy_TdNoOuPw0sPu_XYGbPfZMaagCuMPbleeg_k40T1m8hrN8OVhPzDQHOYaNQ8cfwMzkkSmnI/s1600/Magnificent+Buildings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkIQiNa8nwkQhrpC4lirqR0_BNYl0iA4JLvRh79rdN2242Wr_3TnKYow5JOuwQTLlVbfy_TdNoOuPw0sPu_XYGbPfZMaagCuMPbleeg_k40T1m8hrN8OVhPzDQHOYaNQ8cfwMzkkSmnI/s320/Magnificent+Buildings.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dense Urban Housing</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw0W7Of16k737_v1Qzq6quRVnsCTGkdLQDKw0Q5Tj3vFelDu0UJFYVlD2CRdqNlJgCjZqsh4iZhvgrhY5SmcdDA1D52b2xuNEj8q_xnU9m31ammTbUxNfiitpXNjwxk65wBtTbXAlxhoY/s1600/Small+apartments.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw0W7Of16k737_v1Qzq6quRVnsCTGkdLQDKw0Q5Tj3vFelDu0UJFYVlD2CRdqNlJgCjZqsh4iZhvgrhY5SmcdDA1D52b2xuNEj8q_xnU9m31ammTbUxNfiitpXNjwxk65wBtTbXAlxhoY/s320/Small+apartments.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Quirky Transport </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIE7DSt6eugxDNhX06w9MYFYZNvRf1j4X_WVx3d62nHwJzWKwLDQbii6QqUvZGSCWl_zoXJvNy26DrktXfE9vQerEGj7S_kVoMJ8VbjnaXhpVqDSrctEFI3YQHzoGClKaH6Lo5QTZO9UU/s1600/Amazing+vehicles!!!.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIE7DSt6eugxDNhX06w9MYFYZNvRf1j4X_WVx3d62nHwJzWKwLDQbii6QqUvZGSCWl_zoXJvNy26DrktXfE9vQerEGj7S_kVoMJ8VbjnaXhpVqDSrctEFI3YQHzoGClKaH6Lo5QTZO9UU/s320/Amazing+vehicles!!!.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-47153819783546413712012-05-04T16:49:00.000-07:002012-05-04T16:49:12.271-07:00Day 36 A Korean Welcome<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When it comes to welcoming tourists, the South Koreans are
experts. (Take note London Olympics!)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7DGW_zJYt70QaY_4OoykfpY_Dlyr3r1XjPthxcnD9Qh4ozRXuow8dLdM8iFETBP7hoaWo4M65lhLgdw74Urxodn16K41iynPFX3TYeTL8G7B0Blx_Jgg0eoOOZVPnzZIg62u-IQrtnA/s1600/Stone+Head.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7DGW_zJYt70QaY_4OoykfpY_Dlyr3r1XjPthxcnD9Qh4ozRXuow8dLdM8iFETBP7hoaWo4M65lhLgdw74Urxodn16K41iynPFX3TYeTL8G7B0Blx_Jgg0eoOOZVPnzZIg62u-IQrtnA/s320/Stone+Head.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday was our second visit to the port of Pusan, and
once again we were made to feel like celebrities. A large stage had been erected
on the port side. Behind it a digital display welcomed the Diamond Princess
into South Korea with changing electronic messages. Folk dancers entertained us
on arrival and departure. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckhVIYduHoR5uWVsO0mc5effIsK-xAQHQcs0QhQB6RkZ8j_DSVSiuT2oh1r_d3ZXZmr7wThDz_TrfEM12gML6NCBwIW0XBgzoiPNZhbwfICL2mJhVoVn6tKBikpTwrBp-xadRFtaRd1g/s1600/See+you+again.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckhVIYduHoR5uWVsO0mc5effIsK-xAQHQcs0QhQB6RkZ8j_DSVSiuT2oh1r_d3ZXZmr7wThDz_TrfEM12gML6NCBwIW0XBgzoiPNZhbwfICL2mJhVoVn6tKBikpTwrBp-xadRFtaRd1g/s320/See+you+again.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A tourist information desk provided advice and maps. A
portable ATM was there for passengers to exchange currency.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9pJSoENoiWdOoD7RFsguF_MgRRbqYqIQOBFnknkNqHSJBsLC3czbXUcEGNA5We3L790OXaglyLUpwNOjGlEky5Op2LkllCWCbref-Cgx9Kd6e5Qv4ZaaMftk6E6m723291D5Oh0FcjQ/s1600/ATM.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9pJSoENoiWdOoD7RFsguF_MgRRbqYqIQOBFnknkNqHSJBsLC3czbXUcEGNA5We3L790OXaglyLUpwNOjGlEky5Op2LkllCWCbref-Cgx9Kd6e5Qv4ZaaMftk6E6m723291D5Oh0FcjQ/s320/ATM.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reasonably priced
souvenirs were on sale at the dockside. How easily and willingly we parted with
our money!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We wandered round the town centre market stalls and visited
the famous fish market, the second largest in the world.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8rvEybNkS8HBwJ4JGiz3-JtTi1VPBW3VpNMK_Ath71ouwCTZDnnu12bHYFASKNRxkNDxxW6-p3wFBZagI9RYx7U2YZYH5pJip8rCNfWQacDvSn3aTNC8_qJav3bug3ghG-CEnsg9hLVo/s1600/Fish+Market.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8rvEybNkS8HBwJ4JGiz3-JtTi1VPBW3VpNMK_Ath71ouwCTZDnnu12bHYFASKNRxkNDxxW6-p3wFBZagI9RYx7U2YZYH5pJip8rCNfWQacDvSn3aTNC8_qJav3bug3ghG-CEnsg9hLVo/s320/Fish+Market.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I liked Pusan in South Korea. It demonstrated all the
unplanned variety of Bangkok and Vietnam, combined with the obvious benefits of
economic success. Kia motors dominated the roads and LG phone shops were in
abundance. The town was obviously oriental, busy, chaotic at times, but welcoming
to all visitors. It felt like a town where East met West. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcE261Z-XR0a0iKRIMBguSZXIdif70mS60arlHPYN5Dy7vtii-PQ1GJ04Y3qcnhgzeHYxJ0N1JjcVA9dEwhALfC7lnJxPuod_HuBEJKF26Bx4vaLZoq3qCUchZRxqB0L_5ay_ZhLqUcK4/s1600/Market.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcE261Z-XR0a0iKRIMBguSZXIdif70mS60arlHPYN5Dy7vtii-PQ1GJ04Y3qcnhgzeHYxJ0N1JjcVA9dEwhALfC7lnJxPuod_HuBEJKF26Bx4vaLZoq3qCUchZRxqB0L_5ay_ZhLqUcK4/s320/Market.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are now sailing North through the Sea of Japan towards
the far eastern coast of Russia. North Korea is to our West, and the Chinese smog
has finally lifted. We should arrive in Vladivostock at 4 am tomorrow morning.</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-35174061806533029172012-05-04T05:58:00.000-07:002012-05-04T16:50:05.894-07:00Day 35 Impressions of Dalian<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dalian is the second
largest city in North East China. As well as being an important port, it is
also a major destination for Chinese tourists. It is Located at the Southern
tip of the Liaodong peninsular, and in its own sub-peninsular. Dating from
1898, Dalian’s development stems from colonial occupation by Russia, and
subsequently Japan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>China regained
control in the 1950s.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0QgeMKPGqOg6Sa0AhG5MuqZ64bGHaJajlfUEB4iXL7xKqhNROHkj1sjCXXVODz4lhW5dCuSMoh7KPT15smJNldoEYQF7BL8EdTc2RexYFQKx0aX1Ntw7HYmKrQFoqdKO7Am1m4PB9zY/s1600/High+Rise.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0QgeMKPGqOg6Sa0AhG5MuqZ64bGHaJajlfUEB4iXL7xKqhNROHkj1sjCXXVODz4lhW5dCuSMoh7KPT15smJNldoEYQF7BL8EdTc2RexYFQKx0aX1Ntw7HYmKrQFoqdKO7Am1m4PB9zY/s320/High+Rise.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We sailed into Dalian yesterday morning. This was our third
and final stop in China. Of our 3 Chinese ports, this was my least favourite,
being an outpost of the mainland at the far end of a peninsular. We were
transported by shuttle bus to a high end shopping centre and the warm welcome
with maps, well prepared emergency information, and life size fluffy animals
did not hide the expectation that our role was to spend money in Chinese shops.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a brief look round the very expensive shopping centre,
Chris and I took a tour of the busy square. We were most grateful to the ship’s
tour guide for his advice about crossing Chinese roads. ‘Do not expect cars to
stop at red lights or zebra crossings. The only way to cross Chinese roads
safely is to find a local and follow them closely’.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My favourite part of the town was the farmers’ market. We
seemed to be the only non-Chinese wandering past the stalls of exotic food and
I still can’t identify much of the produce. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XQeEVIlwAjTcy7YtbPI5iGg29JdBzscB2t2O4DZ9fBpLIeEDM4tr6ECiOi_-x0P3HUR81Nd0tEtk5iDd51GqyYSz7iSd6Hrb6MKw3slBDtjlzmgTivxAp8CqAw8_vHfaxty7EGmWAsk/s1600/Fruit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XQeEVIlwAjTcy7YtbPI5iGg29JdBzscB2t2O4DZ9fBpLIeEDM4tr6ECiOi_-x0P3HUR81Nd0tEtk5iDd51GqyYSz7iSd6Hrb6MKw3slBDtjlzmgTivxAp8CqAw8_vHfaxty7EGmWAsk/s320/Fruit.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As with most of
China, there was building work everywhere and a pollution filled smog hovered
over the skyline. Later this week, I will post some overall impressions of this
remarkable and rapidly developing country with its range of personalities and
mixture of centralisation and freedom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-42245902312599540952012-05-02T20:58:00.004-07:002012-05-02T20:58:49.009-07:00Day 34 The Great Wall of China<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When Chris and I bought a house together in Brighton just
over 10 years ago, we sat down and wrote a wish list about our future....a list
of places we would like to visit together either locally<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or further afield. By chance, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found that very long list a few weeks ago
and 2 places jumped off the page:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A walk up Brighton Pier....never achieved.....and......</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A walk up the Great Wall of China!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So there we were yesterday, in a coach, in the smog, heading
for this most iconic of sites.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRhA4pVE7YpYE2L1BsUjnQWiEuudQT8c1tfccHkZfsVVW9gJIDixUXNvS1xbyIvqJwR5q1ISX-ppfZ87UzgzSOOuQ9J-E1tWTvkBan_vYSxTywdENAbsF4fnJsrft45gzor3ne6fT_UA/s1600/Coach+in+smog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRhA4pVE7YpYE2L1BsUjnQWiEuudQT8c1tfccHkZfsVVW9gJIDixUXNvS1xbyIvqJwR5q1ISX-ppfZ87UzgzSOOuQ9J-E1tWTvkBan_vYSxTywdENAbsF4fnJsrft45gzor3ne6fT_UA/s320/Coach+in+smog.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first 2 hours of our journey were alarmingly bad. The
air conditioning in the coach didn’t work and the outside fog enveloped us in a
warm insulated jacket of pollution. At first we could just about see through
the windows.The scenery consisted of endless miles of flat reclaimed land with
intermittent blocks of flats and unfinished buildings.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYMgiMMe1GH_NEZm0AjkDR2lSTbbpd_r9BTgARuImkejCG2VdNE_dbsxMfK_lAVZM5Dr0z8cEZc8lAIg6XY13ymAeAz7ELccXVzT4RqQv716-MpAIiowsqvedJZSLo6do81p-PUunn00/s1600/Reclaimed+Land.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYMgiMMe1GH_NEZm0AjkDR2lSTbbpd_r9BTgARuImkejCG2VdNE_dbsxMfK_lAVZM5Dr0z8cEZc8lAIg6XY13ymAeAz7ELccXVzT4RqQv716-MpAIiowsqvedJZSLo6do81p-PUunn00/s320/Reclaimed+Land.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then the smog grew so
dense that the road in front of us was closed. The driver turned the bus round
and drove very fast for several miles on the wrong side of the congested carriageway
in minimal visibility beeping his horn at the oncoming traffic. I felt my life
pass before me. We were all extremely relieved when the coach stopped after an
hour for a ‘rest’,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>even if the only
available facilities were the typical Chinese ‘squat’ toilets.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After 2 hours anger was replaced by despair. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then, quite suddenly, the fog lifted and the flatness
disappeared. Motorway turned into narrow hillside lanes and deep green
mountains sprouted on either side of the road. As the height of the peaks grew,
our spirits lifted.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSsYdWlizo-KRtSepmQIHI1AA5QsB105xBDwU2aMMLD91KgKlhWbmRDMk0Kq0J7Zbw3tvTCOWJQHlAaW4mckmWFn0kzaqHK5ztbo56imGHwn809YPPt6bNUs32bm1ppRABOuUJyr7aeJA/s1600/Mountain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSsYdWlizo-KRtSepmQIHI1AA5QsB105xBDwU2aMMLD91KgKlhWbmRDMk0Kq0J7Zbw3tvTCOWJQHlAaW4mckmWFn0kzaqHK5ztbo56imGHwn809YPPt6bNUs32bm1ppRABOuUJyr7aeJA/s320/Mountain.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Half an hour later, we caught our first glimpse of the Great
Wall of China.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93xjV7331IHGmUaPxCaNb106Zsrhxz_TR6_hRIY-XJD_Jq4fzCFtaEbJPpQl0cDwXIaEiGv6m5VpDWC-qbTFMd0ZvZbRyLqW4eDTVChTEtzw1EkQ2oOIpNab4VGZvJ86JYYnOlX8aZ8A/s1600/First+Glimpse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93xjV7331IHGmUaPxCaNb106Zsrhxz_TR6_hRIY-XJD_Jq4fzCFtaEbJPpQl0cDwXIaEiGv6m5VpDWC-qbTFMd0ZvZbRyLqW4eDTVChTEtzw1EkQ2oOIpNab4VGZvJ86JYYnOlX8aZ8A/s320/First+Glimpse.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There was no disappointment. The scene was a perfect replica
of the travel book pictures. The endless length of wall meandered steeply
through the mountain tops like an everlasting game of snakes and ladders. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_oB9VPxSgaX5YEc1lcHg5k9p5zwLAdTkfW5OFrH5tJbE92-AZqHJAGWpgb-LjWi4GVYijwbb5C4Ye3GSjpLE-Mj15Np_AIMqlQGyN-M_WW_yGQwYHwcaJZAheXKx2mr3DTdUrvmDzINo/s1600/Meander.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_oB9VPxSgaX5YEc1lcHg5k9p5zwLAdTkfW5OFrH5tJbE92-AZqHJAGWpgb-LjWi4GVYijwbb5C4Ye3GSjpLE-Mj15Np_AIMqlQGyN-M_WW_yGQwYHwcaJZAheXKx2mr3DTdUrvmDzINo/s320/Meander.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We were desperate to go up there, to climb the steps and
become part of this amazing feat of early engineering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFYUT0Av92amthseTVx1ZYfxKyfZErmmHOEQqC4Yn0ecFGqB4fwFocJv6E1-Q62cDqBYXSEk5FUV8UOc954Uy0GjGGhqJLu-44LHW2ssDBcF_PNsj8AzN36RixsXT3gSPCKNLJCJ6f0yo/s1600/Welcome.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFYUT0Av92amthseTVx1ZYfxKyfZErmmHOEQqC4Yn0ecFGqB4fwFocJv6E1-Q62cDqBYXSEk5FUV8UOc954Uy0GjGGhqJLu-44LHW2ssDBcF_PNsj8AzN36RixsXT3gSPCKNLJCJ6f0yo/s320/Welcome.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was fun. It was also hard work! The steps were uneven in
length and depth. The incline was steep. The air temperature had risen to the
mid 70s.The wall was busy, but not uncomfortably crowded. However, every so
often the climb was punctuated with a small temple or dark narrow tower which
‘bottlenecked’ the walkers into a precarious line of 2 way climbers and
descenders. Despite the addition of several ‘Princess’ tour loads the vast
majority of visitors were Chinese. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ln8I-q09AbtURQUvynzfdOh3PqEJpK7HmqLgiJf9dJcrW_audnfuUN2zI53ebIlz5IKdf-ta3pWdWVu7RWPJxr3N52A5lfWSAaMU7OTEfvAciBlzRqutO4obiYuML7X9B8rMyMUY9T0/s1600/Slopes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ln8I-q09AbtURQUvynzfdOh3PqEJpK7HmqLgiJf9dJcrW_audnfuUN2zI53ebIlz5IKdf-ta3pWdWVu7RWPJxr3N52A5lfWSAaMU7OTEfvAciBlzRqutO4obiYuML7X9B8rMyMUY9T0/s320/Slopes.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a respectable walk, I left Chris with the bags and
ascended a few slopes further. Once my calf muscles threatened industrial
action, I too turned back. The return downward with no rails to support my
balance was far more challenging than I care to admit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So we did it! We climbed a part of the Great Wall of China. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And we were so tired on the way back, we barely noticed the
smog.</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-76384552631894082752012-04-30T02:44:00.002-07:002012-04-30T02:44:52.183-07:00Day 33 Sailing in Soup<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Good Afternoon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are sailing in a north westerly direction across the
Yellow Sea. Our destination is Tianjin, which is about 2 hours from Beijing and
a further 1 hour from the Great Wall of China. A deep soup of sea fog has
descended across the water. The ship’s fog horn is announcing our presence with
eerie regularity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chris and I are taking it easy today, as tomorrow will be a very
long day. We will dock in Tianjin at 4 am, and are due to disembark at 6 am.
The 3 hour coach ride will deliver us to The Great Wall by about 9 am .Being
May Day, it will be a public holiday in China tomorrow, so we are warned to
expect crowds. To add to this confusion, only 700 of us are expected to return
to the ship. The majority of cruisers will be finishing their cruise in China
and flying home from Beijing. Our return to the ship will clash with the
embarkation of a new set of passengers, and their luggage, and their jetlag.
Those of us doing both sectors of the journey are told to use the ‘crew
entrance’. I feel quite part of the establishment! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday we made a brief stop in South Korea, but as we are
visiting the port again, I will blog about Korea in a later post.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So how are we spending our sea days?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s amazing how little we can do to fill our time. A
regular quiz trivia spot, watching the daily cruise ‘Wake Show’ and occasional viewing
of a live comedian are the only repeated activities. Today, unusually, we did a
bit more...went to a talk on Chinese herbal medicine, watched Warhorse on TV
and cried, played the final snowball bingo and lost....not a lot really...but quite
enough to punctuate our stops at so many seriously exciting places.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So that’s all for today. I need to conserve my energy and
internet minutes for the Great Wall of China and subsequent trip to the city of
Dallian.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks for stopping by. I’ll be back soon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Claire </span></div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-9928306543199137932012-04-28T20:51:00.002-07:002012-04-28T23:11:09.355-07:00Day 32 Nagasaki<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At 2 minutes past 11 on the 9<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> August 1945, an
American plane dropped a nuclear bomb above the small seaside town of Nagasaki.
150,000 people were killed or injured, and the town suffered extensive damage. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMryMEJUbyDMojvdUCmM4hrf_LwnWaqokaB-8ybDuSViaoB9TMgoIA12zZa6G3q4ZE9PBfSJUfj1aCBAAtrlS1gbWbLvS839mqLUsO6ZtDs3P4GFMiRSyYqPq8K7nMbEaVe0UlCCuKe_c/s1600/Clock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMryMEJUbyDMojvdUCmM4hrf_LwnWaqokaB-8ybDuSViaoB9TMgoIA12zZa6G3q4ZE9PBfSJUfj1aCBAAtrlS1gbWbLvS839mqLUsO6ZtDs3P4GFMiRSyYqPq8K7nMbEaVe0UlCCuKe_c/s320/Clock.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This momentous and tragic event occurred just 6 years after
Chris was born, and its significance is still engraved in our minds.
Considering the gravity of the devastation, it is remarkable that the people of
Nagasaki welcomed an American cruise ship with such graciousness.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6BajGs5IDnL96PmYF4uy03sr1aopCjQcTKL-1IG6PCJUWVjvns5rLFqxKp8exWFnr15MBIiKn8HzFTDjfqBGRil6wisn5KOEROPfw_AmlMZONuNFPogv-K-vz2L_J1gkAAvYKHRjqGys/s1600/Welcome.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6BajGs5IDnL96PmYF4uy03sr1aopCjQcTKL-1IG6PCJUWVjvns5rLFqxKp8exWFnr15MBIiKn8HzFTDjfqBGRil6wisn5KOEROPfw_AmlMZONuNFPogv-K-vz2L_J1gkAAvYKHRjqGys/s320/Welcome.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Both our entry and sailaway were treated as special events
with the local school band skilfully playing us out with traditional British
and American theme tunes.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4EieMXXruCGBCw6iX9l4ZI0sBhFtpyN6dLpUGfxp0COc5KPWMYWUfRYE-IZyMiwRyEvSnMAoROoLdgTatzlAT2-_NnoBfZ2Y6uLwfS6SBE0zEQF5KuSw6y3pd-AKuGatgQ7J0-UC4UVg/s1600/Leaving+Nagasaki+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4EieMXXruCGBCw6iX9l4ZI0sBhFtpyN6dLpUGfxp0COc5KPWMYWUfRYE-IZyMiwRyEvSnMAoROoLdgTatzlAT2-_NnoBfZ2Y6uLwfS6SBE0zEQF5KuSw6y3pd-AKuGatgQ7J0-UC4UVg/s320/Leaving+Nagasaki+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The peace park and museum carried no messages of blame or
self pity. The simple and tragic exhibits and monuments spoke for themselves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Glass bottles melted by the heat of the bomb.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvhWFDYzW2WFDnQQ6rXIUuq2x6jWGdzogrtudu9PbKoAUMzBbzm9DdVprROb3CTaAaKsjXX49xejo0VJzwRRjQqAAe0ZQSl9pOq6frCOFYqIwsbaIb1mAX5yHtJj61VzZMNvciFvrD7sY/s1600/bottles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvhWFDYzW2WFDnQQ6rXIUuq2x6jWGdzogrtudu9PbKoAUMzBbzm9DdVprROb3CTaAaKsjXX49xejo0VJzwRRjQqAAe0ZQSl9pOq6frCOFYqIwsbaIb1mAX5yHtJj61VzZMNvciFvrD7sY/s320/bottles.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sculptures donated by international governments and artists </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2cddR8R2ClsPCeKABULFZ-rzsUORdFYkLHZCw6nPR_Q-hcAM5Aa-cpILeh5oAfizeFAZr-XKJ01-UfBMrbv5ju96VoRq3zFfrEa69kGjXdDrAZbvStcc0eoicUHpmR14dO9lQMfrcHZk/s1600/Monument.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2cddR8R2ClsPCeKABULFZ-rzsUORdFYkLHZCw6nPR_Q-hcAM5Aa-cpILeh5oAfizeFAZr-XKJ01-UfBMrbv5ju96VoRq3zFfrEa69kGjXdDrAZbvStcc0eoicUHpmR14dO9lQMfrcHZk/s320/Monument.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Both the museum and the peace park were laid out with
careful design and lighting to give respect the enormous human tragedy which
was represented.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTCm19rGuyffMdrlTjd0TAFGt7wx9vg1i4SOS0sPw7CvXaGoYEOKvjqEClDQ7gvNUXP7Y_eMTniM62pj_C8dDH2v0kbq2ofdYsG5zrRty23kXzKsefJs1OEcQ9uDW-G4UdCcaXIwNsQ0/s1600/Nagasaki+107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTCm19rGuyffMdrlTjd0TAFGt7wx9vg1i4SOS0sPw7CvXaGoYEOKvjqEClDQ7gvNUXP7Y_eMTniM62pj_C8dDH2v0kbq2ofdYsG5zrRty23kXzKsefJs1OEcQ9uDW-G4UdCcaXIwNsQ0/s320/Nagasaki+107.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As in all parts of the town, the floral displays and
sculpted trees created a calm and restful atmosphere. Even our ice creams were
shaped like a flower!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgiG1cyw-MOosbDawt_ho7YLaRh2Or4H28UyRKBIBVn7LAvzBmVW66F0WiDUzvE4BlGjD3crIYiJfDymI5YDaVRKgquyeQCgeScD7xJEz3tJnLCNumF1lsOe93Uqtu6RxH9oKuJEQx1zA/s1600/Ice+Cream.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgiG1cyw-MOosbDawt_ho7YLaRh2Or4H28UyRKBIBVn7LAvzBmVW66F0WiDUzvE4BlGjD3crIYiJfDymI5YDaVRKgquyeQCgeScD7xJEz3tJnLCNumF1lsOe93Uqtu6RxH9oKuJEQx1zA/s320/Ice+Cream.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Strangely, for such an otherwise welcoming country, the
entry requirements for Japan were very strict. Every single passenger onboard
was photographed and finger-printed. I now have an internationally recorded
identity!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-51975578177250726822012-04-28T20:26:00.001-07:002012-04-28T20:26:12.684-07:00Shanghai Noon<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The centre of Shanghai is filled with acres of tall
structures, mostly built in the last 20 years as older buildings were
demolished to make way for the new.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiQdeY-x1SYwriUsgIFxP0C6dLnaCq0OnCtcnWcCOO52udaSGQRa_SgLAj5InJCYDv8WF-gtj9AjYjTe0yHnJJ4qSUdaell-j41kTh8fpOys_RRwqSsjaGXIuXwd4BAqmAoX-NgA1c6o/s1600/Shanghai+and+ship+151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiQdeY-x1SYwriUsgIFxP0C6dLnaCq0OnCtcnWcCOO52udaSGQRa_SgLAj5InJCYDv8WF-gtj9AjYjTe0yHnJJ4qSUdaell-j41kTh8fpOys_RRwqSsjaGXIuXwd4BAqmAoX-NgA1c6o/s320/Shanghai+and+ship+151.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This has allowed for
the development of an amazing array of unusually shaped sky scrapers with wide
multi-level roadways and careful inclusion of parks and trees, which the
farmers are paid to grow and plant.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKa0aL2fr4AIh6n8mP68dK5J37yjReSW0q1yOxY10tzolEBIYHn-7WXj8Lgpt7yzV4YPNDH7N-KIVHz4c8ibjbCf291nLcHciesehyphenhyphenXXG0Uga3nAAE5fjgoFkKPh05s6LF60VA7nPChw/s1600/Shanghai+and+ship+209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKa0aL2fr4AIh6n8mP68dK5J37yjReSW0q1yOxY10tzolEBIYHn-7WXj8Lgpt7yzV4YPNDH7N-KIVHz4c8ibjbCf291nLcHciesehyphenhyphenXXG0Uga3nAAE5fjgoFkKPh05s6LF60VA7nPChw/s320/Shanghai+and+ship+209.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">People whose homes have been demolished compulsorarily<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>are offered alternative high rise
accommodation. Access to international TV channels is forbidden, but satellite
dishes for this purpose are visible everywhere, with little evidence of
prosecution. I have no idea how spacious these apartments are, and they vary
enormously in their visual impact. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2KvDoii3fWgyHLqJz1C_QiLeuIQ1x1-sHhDLG1twQpktQVpRAQ6yMP2KPYDr814N4zR-5Qr_vUdsf1YuL2ecOt_LYjHIWCBfsN467CINNh3-_1er_tZJ6vdyg5F6igrVKng1vpyYkJQ/s1600/Shanghai+and+ship+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2KvDoii3fWgyHLqJz1C_QiLeuIQ1x1-sHhDLG1twQpktQVpRAQ6yMP2KPYDr814N4zR-5Qr_vUdsf1YuL2ecOt_LYjHIWCBfsN467CINNh3-_1er_tZJ6vdyg5F6igrVKng1vpyYkJQ/s320/Shanghai+and+ship+064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our tour guide talks about the country’s new ‘capitalist’
endeavours. He sells his nation with enthusiasm. He does not mention
‘democracy’ .The reality is far too complex to untangle in a short one day
visit, and our instincts prevent us from asking too many probing questions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a drive around the financial sector of Shanghai we are
taken to the Jin Mao Tower, which houses the biggest tall sightseeing
observatory in China. The lift travels smoothly<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>at 9 metres per second and we step out on the 88<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> floor to
view an amazing landscape of breathtaking architecture.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJpB_8axVpwaD8lOn6AR_7SWDkXZFzM3_g5rbiw6MRvUpvRUi_w_Aev0wW0X2Qrmp7KGLISVdID7FmsrRhK1yQpQw5Y9qfZWwbyngwvNAr8IZrLkX1thkehGYz4HhqWvHShI7L0hO8KI/s1600/Shanghai+and+ship+178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJpB_8axVpwaD8lOn6AR_7SWDkXZFzM3_g5rbiw6MRvUpvRUi_w_Aev0wW0X2Qrmp7KGLISVdID7FmsrRhK1yQpQw5Y9qfZWwbyngwvNAr8IZrLkX1thkehGYz4HhqWvHShI7L0hO8KI/s320/Shanghai+and+ship+178.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have 2 more visits to China in this trip, once to a rural
seaside port, and also to the historic ‘Great Wall’. Hopefully, these
additional stops will help to give a fuller picture of this massively
developing and complex society.</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-61517931079724970132012-04-26T20:17:00.000-07:002012-04-26T20:22:26.640-07:00Day 30 Escape from Shanghai (Maglev)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are sitting onboard our ship in the Shanghai harbour,
waiting for the ship to leave. The sea is murky, the sky clouded with fog,
there is a faint smell of pollution and our departure is as yet delayed by over
an hour. It was a similar story this morning. The ship docked in plenty of time
at 5 am, but at 7 am the central immigration procedures were still underway. In
China these things take time. Despite the burden of beaurocracy, we received a
very warm welcome in Shanghai and spent a wonderful day. Once all the passports
and visas had finally been checked, disembarkation was very swift and
brilliantly organised. Local guides were placed along the passages of the impressive
new terminal building to greet us individually and handout maps. The uniform coaches
were parked ready to leave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>at parallel
angles, and local folk dancers lined up to welcome our entry in to China.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjmbo_t5gDBCzke2cIow8WBCXyEOy9Xj9Ilmkwb_KLETy8K7mACuC62U_DnDMk0K-3ZO17AhxjBs97KPDoHSIQUQdVCZI0CUCqSRX5ePJhSM5KS-DO70LKm9AVhTZQhR4jsXpv1zSFTk/s1600/Shanghai+Terminal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjmbo_t5gDBCzke2cIow8WBCXyEOy9Xj9Ilmkwb_KLETy8K7mACuC62U_DnDMk0K-3ZO17AhxjBs97KPDoHSIQUQdVCZI0CUCqSRX5ePJhSM5KS-DO70LKm9AVhTZQhR4jsXpv1zSFTk/s320/Shanghai+Terminal.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In this blog post I will concentrate on our journey on the Maglev
train, and then write a second post about my impressions of Shanghai as a city.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQ2MsmdRt5VYUotRapIERkBUxTKzwF2jTSTLFKPU50xRgmxR0I-k7q6LjWxLCe6yr2mf7ohuCeuNf-HloXT4VaHJmTAFH8GLS6cU6Ydg9EQZfxpLL579blF5CVC2TMEUW6qYfXuZM44c/s1600/Ticket+Machine.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQ2MsmdRt5VYUotRapIERkBUxTKzwF2jTSTLFKPU50xRgmxR0I-k7q6LjWxLCe6yr2mf7ohuCeuNf-HloXT4VaHJmTAFH8GLS6cU6Ydg9EQZfxpLL579blF5CVC2TMEUW6qYfXuZM44c/s320/Ticket+Machine.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">‘Maglev’ stands for magnetic levitation. It describes the
means of moving a train using electro- magnetism to set up opposing magnetic fields
to propel a train at high speed without rails or wheels. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzMVyuLrA2Z8VkOtGmkED-gA5VP9FTIugbzQraapOZRimexU6XJGktb7NXlNOewWLBRVhwTQC_LKhUSYKnvBlYckQjwh8j7-S6OMZduC4J2eig8uVFsFoYBx1omirKdACR-Eq8Ofet6w/s1600/Track.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzMVyuLrA2Z8VkOtGmkED-gA5VP9FTIugbzQraapOZRimexU6XJGktb7NXlNOewWLBRVhwTQC_LKhUSYKnvBlYckQjwh8j7-S6OMZduC4J2eig8uVFsFoYBx1omirKdACR-Eq8Ofet6w/s320/Track.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Maglev train in Shanghai runs 31km from the city centre
station to the airport. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQS9hslIMZEuRDeRZVol9w8VyJ4uFLGXC6Tr086Bn2EjQWh1lEqPP8z2-iPaVviQE0P4aDSY2UnzwB_hWLef_Xl62felCBQ8ujF4lNW8FtCra-FrVv9wHfdOEXK8Oy9ixmWI4urMNWSoY/s1600/Maglev+Station.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQS9hslIMZEuRDeRZVol9w8VyJ4uFLGXC6Tr086Bn2EjQWh1lEqPP8z2-iPaVviQE0P4aDSY2UnzwB_hWLef_Xl62felCBQ8ujF4lNW8FtCra-FrVv9wHfdOEXK8Oy9ixmWI4urMNWSoY/s320/Maglev+Station.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The journey takes 7 minutes and reaches a maximum speed of
431 km per hour, half as fast again as a Formula 1 car.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluMP2rglDFzrCHPnmWyUHouh7lJ2zM2Tcd5RpKDFGgmcO6GbETmdW2WeiqbawGn4jZiIdXJta0zn84QvEUermHsEe3kjvip27S57Sld7qPRUCG_pT9msX1w0sda3sAXhIUbCfYqEWVqU/s1600/431+kmph.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluMP2rglDFzrCHPnmWyUHouh7lJ2zM2Tcd5RpKDFGgmcO6GbETmdW2WeiqbawGn4jZiIdXJta0zn84QvEUermHsEe3kjvip27S57Sld7qPRUCG_pT9msX1w0sda3sAXhIUbCfYqEWVqU/s320/431+kmph.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Surprisingly, you don’t feel the pace. There are no bumps or
vibrations. Apart from the digital display the only indication of the speed is
when you look out of the window at the rapidly passing scenery. This was an
amazing experience. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpnQIXhiPIQyV9-3KQ46yEdNVyPL33tHOMGGff8b32yjADVacWnQC5tGOqUITx7DwdSNcSaEbqMdogz5_DQt7Ux7meWQR6Df3lxRrCTsSq22g_IRQzkam7Keh7Mz23bMPtFF8wSnxsX4/s1600/Maglev.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpnQIXhiPIQyV9-3KQ46yEdNVyPL33tHOMGGff8b32yjADVacWnQC5tGOqUITx7DwdSNcSaEbqMdogz5_DQt7Ux7meWQR6Df3lxRrCTsSq22g_IRQzkam7Keh7Mz23bMPtFF8wSnxsX4/s320/Maglev.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-48567862389911453312012-04-24T22:55:00.001-07:002012-04-25T00:23:44.097-07:00Day 29 Diamond Princess<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are sailing in a north easterly direction towards
Shanghai in the East China Sea. The temperature is a pleasant 23 deg with
moderate sea conditions. Although still very calm, we are feeling the motion of
the ship after the ‘millpond’ sea state of the last 10 days. We have sailed
over 3000 nautical miles since Singapore. There are occasional passing <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>fishing vessels and container ships, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and yesterday we caught a rare glimpse of the
Taiwan coast.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is a good balance between port visits and sea days,
and we are now entirely acclimatised to our new time zone. The ship is large,
similar to Grand Princess, but she seems to run more smoothly. In particular,
the Horizon Court Buffet is not normally overcrowded, except for breakfast on
port days when queues are long as everyone needs to disembark early!!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYn5bbJHry9rkyplBjfAoXQSgxYniIpCxMKEWjdhvqzkqlaSqmXv8J-cuGiIJCxSvkKW6Bc-KhrLVY00wjmz1p4wWzbjeD5-2INqHciJcnJSMBdpRTs0eJ4nutXq970G7daaUWnmhdOI/s1600/Horizon+Seats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYn5bbJHry9rkyplBjfAoXQSgxYniIpCxMKEWjdhvqzkqlaSqmXv8J-cuGiIJCxSvkKW6Bc-KhrLVY00wjmz1p4wWzbjeD5-2INqHciJcnJSMBdpRTs0eJ4nutXq970G7daaUWnmhdOI/s320/Horizon+Seats.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With such a long trip there are very few children onboard
and the pools are very civilised and warm.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWl7O_w13iwOmLhGskFTDr6HNzH-uyG_-lJnFygPKDiSRW1uH_oxT6oNrAZV2XEYav2oXABn5yUT4ayofZ5WiTuoBaLS6ubI2KkmHwxqFTo6sVchChWV5W8WASOPmBzzFKUK2L3vKTK5I/s1600/Pool+at+Night.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWl7O_w13iwOmLhGskFTDr6HNzH-uyG_-lJnFygPKDiSRW1uH_oxT6oNrAZV2XEYav2oXABn5yUT4ayofZ5WiTuoBaLS6ubI2KkmHwxqFTo6sVchChWV5W8WASOPmBzzFKUK2L3vKTK5I/s320/Pool+at+Night.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The library is well stocked, and the onboard TV info works
extremely well. There is a wide selection of films, such as The Artist,
Warhorse and Iron Lady.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DvMNiAdWelifrYEELhbwnZFcApVWi7OAnF_-rwC0byhlOthZgalZH8mMhg2AyE6YpP8yebLJFA0dLh5RqquUOT7JVwiZvNQw-q-UxIkGFlSxM8qMMpx2s3OfgiUj16DhXR8JQx32BuQ/s1600/Library.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DvMNiAdWelifrYEELhbwnZFcApVWi7OAnF_-rwC0byhlOthZgalZH8mMhg2AyE6YpP8yebLJFA0dLh5RqquUOT7JVwiZvNQw-q-UxIkGFlSxM8qMMpx2s3OfgiUj16DhXR8JQx32BuQ/s320/Library.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our balcony on Dolphin deck is really quite spacious. Having
won a bottle of fizz (with help) at the 60s Trivia quiz, we managed to fit 4 of
us on the balcony and promote USA/UK relations!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRTTvvM6icMCGeLbaloARmmTekpgctHK0pT3yhWgPj3bUiqZDotIgZZG3f1p2wmzaTrqv9j9RZOTrO7Xunv2gGzykLAQAEs3Tz3D4RZTPbNson0-uWJLOLfg6Tdse15pHqnqxoCvVMsE/s1600/Dolphin+Balcony.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRTTvvM6icMCGeLbaloARmmTekpgctHK0pT3yhWgPj3bUiqZDotIgZZG3f1p2wmzaTrqv9j9RZOTrO7Xunv2gGzykLAQAEs3Tz3D4RZTPbNson0-uWJLOLfg6Tdse15pHqnqxoCvVMsE/s320/Dolphin+Balcony.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There’s loads more to say about the ship, so I will try and
fit in some more details in later posts. We sail into the Huangpu tomorrow as
we approach Shanghai, and I should have time to post some details about our
day. After that, due to Japanese Radio Communication , there will be no onboard
internet services <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>from 27<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
April to am on 29<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>. I should be able view emails on my kindle in
port, but there will be no blogs for as couple of days.</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-54286743759824356412012-04-24T06:32:00.000-07:002012-04-24T06:32:12.282-07:00Day 28 Hong Kong<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Those people who see me at work may remember the red and
black rucksack which accompanies me on my train journeys and produces from
within <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>scribbled notes on school self
evaluation <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and the latest guidance from
Ofsted. This rucksack now has a new function. It is our Far East travel
companion and holds cameras, currency and fold up pac a macs. The pac a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>macs were tightly rolled up unused until
yesterday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our ship was too big to be allowed in the central Victoria
harbour in Hong Kong so we awoke in the morning to find ourselves berthed in
yet another container port. The ship had organised a regular and free shuttle
coach service to take passengers into the town. Not wishing, or needing, to
take part in another Princess tour, Chris and I started our DIY day by catching
the shuttle. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we walked off the ship a
deluge of rain dropped unexpectedly from the cloudy sky and we frantically delved
in the rucksack for our waterproofs. We finally climbed on the coach in
rainwear, much to the envy of the other drenched passengers. ‘They’re well
prepared’ I heard an American say. ‘Not well prepared, just English’ I
retorted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The rain soon passed and, by the time we had boarded the
‘Star Ferry’ to take us from the mainland Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, the
weather was dry, although the tops of the numerous skyscrapers and hilltop
peaks were immersed in cloud.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1pkxQPyOLpttmF7BtwOzvhnHQKcjYGSCBNRxjUTK2y25p0weP-DD5iYE2D0ofHFg_1vSA2upeDZ9CXV6_psZMcKFP0NNN6kYuHH0E7G17W9ibmMpSULkHQhcyjTnf_3KJ0z_jzWOijeg/s1600/Hong+Kong+Skyline.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1pkxQPyOLpttmF7BtwOzvhnHQKcjYGSCBNRxjUTK2y25p0weP-DD5iYE2D0ofHFg_1vSA2upeDZ9CXV6_psZMcKFP0NNN6kYuHH0E7G17W9ibmMpSULkHQhcyjTnf_3KJ0z_jzWOijeg/s320/Hong+Kong+Skyline.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chris and I chose to take the ‘Big Bus’, Hong Kong’s
equivalent of the Ho Ho, and our £30 (not cheap) tickets<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>included the Star Ferry and Victoria Peak
tram. Bearing in mind the uncertain weather, this proved to be a wise choice.
As with all the locations so far visited, I loved Hong Kong and would like to
revisit, though it is maybe not my very favourite venue so far. It is still
very British in many respects. However, the residents (though not the traffic)
move at constant high speed. It is far noisier than any British city, and
dominated by the somewhat claustrophobic density of record breaking tower
blocks.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyziT0otq8r0hBjC03VR1SDnSvE-7Utyp0O8pvyHmTgPiYwXQKxFIi8dZxglUZZQTmSOq3FGH4wBCWOmwKCP9B0e7pbdevFvpcyYowEgbDLTVuHNKxIum2Kd6Do8evCPo0AHOphXPCqs/s1600/Hong+Kong+Street.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyziT0otq8r0hBjC03VR1SDnSvE-7Utyp0O8pvyHmTgPiYwXQKxFIi8dZxglUZZQTmSOq3FGH4wBCWOmwKCP9B0e7pbdevFvpcyYowEgbDLTVuHNKxIum2Kd6Do8evCPo0AHOphXPCqs/s320/Hong+Kong+Street.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Opportunities for
unlimited<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>designer shopping were
everywhere, interspersed with local health and food outlets. Sadly our wallets
did not stretch to a new Armani wardrobe, but we did manage to order a local
‘Hong Kong’ lunch, helped somewhat by the perfect English spoken by the
staff!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XYoWxz0HjXtpQcFwMuTOveZ3vlHZbsE6yFDpuEYHu-NjepqCej-do6Kg3G2NSyUNbwQbnvm-hzpj7Q9nVIV-370DZwmpJskO3bKlXv33A0Gl-AtIoykRMnF5cofvm-XY6MaPAIMkLcM/s1600/Hong+Kong+Food.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XYoWxz0HjXtpQcFwMuTOveZ3vlHZbsE6yFDpuEYHu-NjepqCej-do6Kg3G2NSyUNbwQbnvm-hzpj7Q9nVIV-370DZwmpJskO3bKlXv33A0Gl-AtIoykRMnF5cofvm-XY6MaPAIMkLcM/s320/Hong+Kong+Food.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was very refreshing to be in a place where we felt
confident to travel independently.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We now have 2 days at sea before we disembark in Shanghai
and Chris gets his long awaited ride on the high speed maglev train.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So for any cruisers interested, I will try to do a
mini-review of the ship tomorrow.</span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-67173637589987399312012-04-21T20:49:00.000-07:002012-04-21T20:49:48.380-07:00Day 27 Goodbye Vietnam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtsSN94mjTEu33ACyd5iYQSA85-eOkQnKtCs1_G2V5j8714D5JWNGY29mOpnJgVCvr9AkAr3mPhVIwjM9VNzCb3y7rrjt2V6Deh72QIL7LuGGAKzKCnKkbBqtMx2JDWxLc1jXQAhD5r4/s1600/Vietnam+2+138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtsSN94mjTEu33ACyd5iYQSA85-eOkQnKtCs1_G2V5j8714D5JWNGY29mOpnJgVCvr9AkAr3mPhVIwjM9VNzCb3y7rrjt2V6Deh72QIL7LuGGAKzKCnKkbBqtMx2JDWxLc1jXQAhD5r4/s320/Vietnam+2+138.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is 7.30 am and we are about 500 nautical miles from Hong Kong sailing north east on the South China Sea. The outside temperature is a comfortable 26 deg. Sea conditions are termed as ‘glassy. This is, a perfect description. It is as if we are sailing through a watery mirror with barely a ripple to disturb the reflection of the morning sun. We need to make the most of the next few days’ weather. Once we head north from Hong Kong, the T-shirts will need to be discarded for fleeces and jumpers.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Before I return to my impression of Vietnam, can I say thank you to those who have recently commented on my blog. It’s difficult for me to reply in the comments whilst onboard, but I do read your responses with great pleasure, and it keeps us in touch with home. Also many thanks for the donations to DiabetesUK which are beginning to grow. I have now reached 10% of my target.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Vietnam.... what can I say?</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday we joined a private tour around the countryside of Nha Trang. At $50 each it was incredibly good value for money and included an authentic riverside Vietnamese lunch. It was infinitely preferable to being herded on the larger Princess tours, and our guide ensured we saw as much as possible of the ‘real’ Vietnam. Being the only Brits on the small coach meant that, for our survival, we had to discard our ‘reserve’ and become American for the day, but that story can be told in another blog!</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Downloading photos takes up so much internet time but this day needs to be told through pictures:</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Embroidery Factory</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOEsD9WxRMRes0PTtgUcF_NM9jYEZhHnLKAnov6BjfE61tqdX3WU8pNxTpOe2EP86ivFg9r2zFz_pD4_hueFL3ks4n-0iUpgGe1YopgV02CcSOUAyCMPaJoy4Pkn1Pssn4A1qMlOOuf0/s1600/Vietnam+2+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOEsD9WxRMRes0PTtgUcF_NM9jYEZhHnLKAnov6BjfE61tqdX3WU8pNxTpOe2EP86ivFg9r2zFz_pD4_hueFL3ks4n-0iUpgGe1YopgV02CcSOUAyCMPaJoy4Pkn1Pssn4A1qMlOOuf0/s320/Vietnam+2+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ancient Temple</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-J2-2hSYX4fWQkg9g6i50wktc2HvO2siPawOl1sY74Y9PX3PIEC6BYWaJ1-Vkvp50ureNRcu53XvKyDfqqc4mJ-UVtVUTWi6IQNDC2XfGaoStUk5h4EvO_tPck7x0-Yvn2zE66f_UX-8/s1600/Vietnam+2+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-J2-2hSYX4fWQkg9g6i50wktc2HvO2siPawOl1sY74Y9PX3PIEC6BYWaJ1-Vkvp50ureNRcu53XvKyDfqqc4mJ-UVtVUTWi6IQNDC2XfGaoStUk5h4EvO_tPck7x0-Yvn2zE66f_UX-8/s320/Vietnam+2+027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">View from Riverboat</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDGrFQsPQv4Aae8tDaeE1cIui-DkXOdWygvZ3GgBiwFNhed2t2FaDCLLwZH24N-6bI0mLZovWZtcHHxqY-XmvLAhMF_u6CLo6cVsOj6MLXVn7j9n8cK_aCfe_frQNNhYUGW91KgWj2L8/s1600/Vietnam+2+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDGrFQsPQv4Aae8tDaeE1cIui-DkXOdWygvZ3GgBiwFNhed2t2FaDCLLwZH24N-6bI0mLZovWZtcHHxqY-XmvLAhMF_u6CLo6cVsOj6MLXVn7j9n8cK_aCfe_frQNNhYUGW91KgWj2L8/s320/Vietnam+2+054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rice Paper Making</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJald5kkdCo6GTiNPRT5j4dj3b1Cq8SBPrRQdXVHUBFLOv2J-oDMP3OvI7bM63f8AP-KVDp_bS26uIvgTsDdOyXtOt742MtXspt2oAjPXKeHU244Z7QggasaE0539D-08-HyO1u-l0-8o/s1600/Vietnam+2+120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJald5kkdCo6GTiNPRT5j4dj3b1Cq8SBPrRQdXVHUBFLOv2J-oDMP3OvI7bM63f8AP-KVDp_bS26uIvgTsDdOyXtOt742MtXspt2oAjPXKeHU244Z7QggasaE0539D-08-HyO1u-l0-8o/s320/Vietnam+2+120.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Conical Hat Making</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_MBVSoKgGHB3XbrFkSn4a9qkHOOzLVRD6658WYp9BHq_ZDbQpbx0kFRo4gylfEEjHNuP0f1FW0bGdEXm3bTQ-Hk3stzFr9dRwKDns7Z5njYQ42Vf-RjxTwrJM9KQUH1ddSWIHh4ZIJg/s1600/Vietnam+2+125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_MBVSoKgGHB3XbrFkSn4a9qkHOOzLVRD6658WYp9BHq_ZDbQpbx0kFRo4gylfEEjHNuP0f1FW0bGdEXm3bTQ-Hk3stzFr9dRwKDns7Z5njYQ42Vf-RjxTwrJM9KQUH1ddSWIHh4ZIJg/s320/Vietnam+2+125.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It took 3 hours for this lady to make one hat. She charged about £1 per hat...I calculate that at about 30p per hour. So our purchase of 2 hats represented 6 hours of work!</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our final visit was to a rural orphanage which cared for 129 children aged from 0 to 16. As there is no state aid, the orphanage relies entirely on charitable donations. I felt uncomfortable at the necessity for the children’s needs to be ‘displayed’ to the tourists in order to raise funds, but in their situation I would have done the same thing.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7PvPhotVQc96KbbKw78UC4XxGblXFomUutTeND3kZMExjBOHnfQRS-beVkROPxRfR1cD9aINcLNU-rmGwd3GN8qQ5KVSRyDniyd0zDZWrsBhTWRyonoPJJw4MTLgKzkGwIdJ12BeY_H4/s1600/Vietnam+2+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7PvPhotVQc96KbbKw78UC4XxGblXFomUutTeND3kZMExjBOHnfQRS-beVkROPxRfR1cD9aINcLNU-rmGwd3GN8qQ5KVSRyDniyd0zDZWrsBhTWRyonoPJJw4MTLgKzkGwIdJ12BeY_H4/s320/Vietnam+2+147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a fellow educator, they let me photograph one of the very basic classrooms. At least I could now be confident that the small donations we made would go much further than similar amounts in the UK.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6m7U4cSk0sfu81RxPVmvTCTItm5d6tJnd6l8rTAidLD4CkpqFCtcyAXGHwPK65mfiyJNM4WPAz5DW7uN5wz2FwkMTRBAfFW9VR8EnzJun204nLPkAdwmuIBx-6KZ5U-pBDjPe8_vIyg/s1600/Vietnam+2+149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6m7U4cSk0sfu81RxPVmvTCTItm5d6tJnd6l8rTAidLD4CkpqFCtcyAXGHwPK65mfiyJNM4WPAz5DW7uN5wz2FwkMTRBAfFW9VR8EnzJun204nLPkAdwmuIBx-6KZ5U-pBDjPe8_vIyg/s320/Vietnam+2+149.JPG" width="298" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I loved this country. I would so much like to return. But for now, it’s Goodbye Vietnam.</span></div><br />
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</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6206729687655461534.post-33088371037298813992012-04-21T08:59:00.000-07:002012-04-21T08:59:24.803-07:00Day 26 Good Morning Vietnam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvYuuITbHxI2gQgCWcSREPbXEsatO7cUo05JpeWWXbmRlPruLq2WdgT5mGRabUr5Twn6kN-moaK-A-tlh7PAnVS3uRaZ4xm_nlISPRbkXtC_5vb2VEqGyujUDnjkc10qIkPgEbNzFL2U/s1600/HO+CHI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvYuuITbHxI2gQgCWcSREPbXEsatO7cUo05JpeWWXbmRlPruLq2WdgT5mGRabUr5Twn6kN-moaK-A-tlh7PAnVS3uRaZ4xm_nlISPRbkXtC_5vb2VEqGyujUDnjkc10qIkPgEbNzFL2U/s320/HO+CHI.jpg" width="319" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Morning All</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s 6.30 am, and Chris and I are about to head for breakfast before boarding the tender to take us ashore for our second day in Vietnam at a town called Nha Trang....more of this tomorrow.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am pleased to report that my body clock has now adjusted to Eastern time and for the past 2 nights, I have enjoyed my full quota of sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is fortunate since yesterday’s itinerary in Vietnam was very demanding. We left the ship at 7 am and were driven 2 hours to Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon. </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is what I have so far learned about Vietnam.....</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Having been restored to Communist rule in 1975, the country opened itself up to tourists and foreign investment 10 years later. So yet again, we found ourselves in a city of contrasts...miles and miles of small makeshift family businesses lined the road from the port, interspersed with rice fields and cashew nut trees. The general impression was unsophisticated and near poverty. As we reached the outskirts of Saigon, the coach entered a newly built tunnel under the River Meekon. The exit to the tunnel revealed a completely different city full of modern skyscrapers and international businesses such as KFC. I wonder how long the Vietnamese will continue to call this progress.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYHnd6aRoUuTSLE7Tmfmv-aYN1swhTJFMBIBkj9sQVreOWttIl2h1iilNv6Meqcaq1k3bemxh8Yegd4jJ07W3yiFtTBhykbY_RHbZaL7W-8shug3V4WFk6MgQqS3UOA2B2t_5uH85uhI/s1600/HCM+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYHnd6aRoUuTSLE7Tmfmv-aYN1swhTJFMBIBkj9sQVreOWttIl2h1iilNv6Meqcaq1k3bemxh8Yegd4jJ07W3yiFtTBhykbY_RHbZaL7W-8shug3V4WFk6MgQqS3UOA2B2t_5uH85uhI/s320/HCM+045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The main form of transport in Vietnam is the moped.</span></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Imagine the congestion if all moped owners suddenly drove cars!!</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The maintenance of street electricity and communication wiring is passed from father to son. Understanding the system is an inherited skill.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_uUIRS8fm7Y0KxdCdfkDTLunWOUqMEQrqaIG8z0-eDkNAcpjnG9IdMfZ6aCHRXWGx1VgLy1d6EvGhESw-NHQvLClhjbEQersuwFXckbfeecAMzIbI6bMzzq_AiImNPnAy0WGNEj60bc/s1600/Wires.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_uUIRS8fm7Y0KxdCdfkDTLunWOUqMEQrqaIG8z0-eDkNAcpjnG9IdMfZ6aCHRXWGx1VgLy1d6EvGhESw-NHQvLClhjbEQersuwFXckbfeecAMzIbI6bMzzq_AiImNPnAy0WGNEj60bc/s320/Wires.jpg" width="319" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We saw the tanks on display in the grounds of the Presidential Palace at the spot where they broke through the gates in 1975.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We visited the roof garden of the Rex Hotel, a favourite broadcasting haunt of international journalists in the 60s.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMUDuUwDlA95irWWkpSUpaPDn5pdxjSIaFI9-80t_Im482_QqGAQcr7vsNC72h8nWCkM_wE5RznEgfAy5Jx1AAQvC9KJ0WbWwYbch-2mKHArKRI2M3SbOe_qTkeXkmgwHeY1X-17p3VE/s1600/HCM+175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMUDuUwDlA95irWWkpSUpaPDn5pdxjSIaFI9-80t_Im482_QqGAQcr7vsNC72h8nWCkM_wE5RznEgfAy5Jx1AAQvC9KJ0WbWwYbch-2mKHArKRI2M3SbOe_qTkeXkmgwHeY1X-17p3VE/s320/HCM+175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We watched a beautiful display of Vietnamese Water Puppets at the History museum.</span></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The temperature was a constant hot and tiring<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>34 deg. The people were positive, welcoming and proud of their progress. I was bowled over by this country. And now we are visiting for a second day.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Good Morning Vietnam!</span></div><br />
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</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01213792370783405897noreply@blogger.com0