More Photos From Hawaii

 

The above video I took last week in Kauai.  We spent two nights there on NCL’s Pride of America.  The beach was absolutely breathtaking.  I took a taxi to Poipu Beach  from the port.  The driver agreed to transport m me the forty minutes each way.  

When he dropped me off, he changed his mind and told me to call the company for a ride back to the ship.  I got annoyed with him, and reminded him of our agreement.  He had initially said he would meet me there in an hour.  I told him I was angry at his dishonesty.

After swimming and sunbathing. I walked by the local shops and dialed the number he had given me on my cell phone.  It didn’t work.  I sighed, wondering how I was going to get all the way back to the ship.  I was out in the middle of nowhere.  I heard a few honks, and saw the driver of the taxi parked at my drop off point.  He had decided to honor our agreement after all.

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Home From Hawaii: A Fantastic Cruise on The Pride of America

 

Last week I took an unforgettable cruise to four of the Hawaiian Islands on NCL.  It went way beyond what I had imagined!  Hawaii was magical, feminine, and deeply healing.  Ship life was relaxing and filled with fun and friendship.  I was so impressed with NCL’s organization and attention to detail.  The crew was exceptional.

These four ladies were a riot!  I enjoyed chatting with them by the pool.  The knew how to celebrate and have a good time.  Their enthusiasm was contagious.

The beaches were pristine and heavenly.  I went kayaking at a local beach next door to our port in Kaui.  I was a little nervous, seeing the waves, and being out there on my own, but the beach goers encouraged me.  A man and his wife near the shore complimented me on my landing.  I needed help getting out into the water.  The guy who rented me the ocean kayak gave me a push, and I paddled with all my might and determination.

Each day I received a knock on my cabin door, and delicious goodies were delivered.  I devoured the chocolate truffles, desserts, chocolate covered strawberries, homemade gelatin candies, and wine.  My dear friend Richard got me VIP status.  I was very spoiled.

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Avoiding Scams as a Senior

 

More seniors than ever are reporting being tricked and robbed by predators, relatives, and “friends.”  As my father became elderly, I was upset to find out how many people close to him had taken advantage of his kindness, prosperity, and trust.  He became naive, and trusted people who my mother would have vetted when she was alive.  If I pointed out to him that someone was stealing from him, he could become like a little boy and cry, “No!”

Because seniors often have money set aside in a retirement account, certain people may try to gain access to it.  When I was a customer at our local credit union, a few people who worked in card services tried to swindle me out of money through a website overcharging for hotel rooms. Fortunately, I provided screenshots of the advertised rate and the hotels one site’s jacked up rate as proof.  The credit union had to refund my money.

The woman on the phone tried to intimidate me by yelling and through intimidation.  “This is a scam” I replied, hanging up the phone.  I reported it to a government agency, and they  investigated.  My money was returned.  After another episode that happened on a cruise, I closed all my accounts.  An elderly woman standing in line in front of me was also closing hers.   Sometimes the best thing we can do is to walk away from manipulators.

Have you experienced any scams as a senior?  How did you handle it?

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Memories of Norway

 

Looking back at photos and videos of world travel is so rewarding.  The beautiful landscape, clean air, and small, charming Norwegian homes were enchanting.  Norway has a deep spiritual energy that is captivating.

The hiking trailheads appeared  right as we stepped off the gangway into port!  It was so convenient.  I loved being in a culture where Mother Nature is center stage.  The residents there really prioritize the environment.  It was so inspiring.

Have you ever been there?  I can’t wait to return…

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Benefits of Being a Snowbird in Retirement

 

Having a warm place to escape the cold and snow can be ideal during retirement.  Although I love sitting by the fire up at my mountain cabin, it is also a luxurious feeling to return to the cottage and to bask in the afternoon sun.  Meals can be eaten al fresco out on the front porch, and it is far easier to stay warm and comfortable.  Sometimes it is as simple as putting on a sweater or shawl in the mornings and evenings.  Hauling firewood takes time, strength, and energy.

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It’s warm enough to do yoga at night before bed, which helps with circulation.  Many seniors notice numbness and tingling in their extremities as they age.  Inversion like handstands, headstands, and shoulder stands can help alleviate this issue.  I find in the mountains I don’t want to do evening yoga when it is cold and dark.  I am more likely to curl up in bed with an interesting book.

Flowers bloom year round in a sunny location.  They provide beauty,  cheer and color.  The difference in temperature gives a whole different vibe in the winter months.  Packages and deliveries  are easily made, and you don’t have to worry about icy roads or travel conditions.  You can also hire workers year round for your home maintenance. issues.  Sometimes you can negotiate a discount around Christmas, when business is slow for certain areas, like fencing and gates.

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Shopping In Norway and Iceland

 

I was delighted with the gorgeous hand knits available in the port stops in Norway and Iceland.  The designs seemed so familiar.  They have such classic beauty.  They are expensive, but as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for…”

I purchased some Icelandic Wear merino wool long underwear in pink.  It has a sweet snowflake design.  I have been wearing the top and bottoms as a base layer regularly.  I was a little shocked at the price tag when I arrived at the cash register, but they are a hearty basic that will get a lot of use.  

I stopped in this little bakery for a mug of tea, a cheese scone, and to check my email.  The atmosphere was very homey, with plush, comfortable chairs, a wood burning oven, and happy travelers.  You could feel the history and the charm.  It was just a short walk from the ship!

The art and sculpture made me chuckle.  This little guy holding his flag is such a character.  I definitely would like to take this cruise again.  The itinerary and the Norwegian Prima were spectacular.

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Warm Clothes For Winter

 

While in Norway, I purchased one of their beautiful traditional sweaters.  It is so warm, thick and cozy!

The matching gloves are exceptional quality.  I have been wearing them in the mountains, they are double knit.

The above slippers are from a quaint shop carrying lovely hand knits in Iceland.

These gorgeous hand knit sweaters are made with Icelandic wool.  They really cut the wind and insulate the body.  I have been wearing layers each day, and have put the flannel sheets back on the bed.  The throws that I knit and crocheted add a comforting warmth as we sleep.

How is the weather where you live?  Are you making soups and stews?  Hope you are staying warm, or cool for the Aussies.

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Making Friends on a Tour or Cruise

 

On my last cruise, I made a few friends from both the pre-cruise tour and by being on the ship.  This woman lives in Florida, but she is from Puerto Rico.  She invited me to dinner with her in the specialty restaurants on three different nights. She is an avid cruiser, and a Platinum member.  The dinners were delicious, and we had wonderful conversations.   She told me she wouldn’t have gone on her own, and her gift certificates were for two.  It pays to be loyal to a cruise line.  We were on the Norwegian Prima.  I love this ship! 

We also ran into each other while waiting to board the bus back to the ship after one of the London tours.  We sat near The Tower of London Gift Shop and discussed our impressions of the city and its history.  I picked up some salted caramel biscuits to give to my friends who had me to dinner at their flat.

I loved this cafe with the rooftop garden in Norway.  It was right next to a lake.  We had lunch nearby with our tour group.  

The fjords were awe inspiring.  I absolutely loved the energy and incredible nature in Norway.  I definitely plan  to return.  

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Small Cottages in Norway

 

I was so impressed with the simplicity of Norway.  The small, sweet, neat and clean homes had lovely gardens.  

The curtains in the windows and potted flowers make the entrance to this cottage look so welcoming.

Of course, being nestled among these waterfalls makes for spectacular sound effects.  The negative ions in that area are so powerful.  It was a very healing setting. 

After a glorious hike, we headed back to our home, The Norwegian Prima.

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Traveling in EuropeTo Celebrate Turning Sixty

 

Our London tour group enjoyed a delicious lunch upstairs, at The White Lion.  I chose the most flavorful meat pie.  It tasted oh so British, with a divine buttery crust and brown gravy.  

The bathroom was just gorgeous.  I loved the hand painted sinks, carved framed mirrors and attention to detail.

Look at that wallpaper!  The tiles and doors were so pretty, too.  That was my first time eating in a pub.  What fun!  I would say we started at the top.  

I have more photos to show you, but am having issues uploading them, so until next time…

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Recent Live Performances

 

Last Saturday I attended Westside Ballet’s Spring Gala in Santa Monica.  I met up with several old friends.   We all studied ballet together with Yvonne Mounsey and Rosemary Valaire.  The dancers onstage were phenomenal!  The crowd went wild.  It was thrilling.  There were numerous guest artists who made the evening absolutely magical.  Their performances were sponsored by several generous donors.

Cocktails and delicious snacks were served before the ballet.  The performance flew by, and then they presented  dinner and awards.  As you can see, we all were decked out in our best outfits.  The Broad Stage is a convenient commute for me.  The parking is easy,  close to the entrance, and free.

I greatly enjoyed Kenny James show and band on The Regatta.  Kenny was the Grand Champion for Star Search in the eighties.  He was on the show after Sam Harris won.    He really rocked the house with his Motown hits and sensational dancing.  He just emanates charisma!

Have you seen any live performances lately?

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Making Friends on an Oceania Cruise

 

My recent coastal cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver was the first time I was onboard on the Oceania line.  It will certainly will not be my last, I loved it! The are known for their fine cuisine, and I was thoroughly impressed.  There were only five hundred people on the Regatta, our gorgeous vessel.

I stopped by my favorite Alpaca store in Juneau, Alaska.  I splurged on a red alpaca cape, and a white alpaca hat.  I wear the grey cape and rust hat that I purchased there in 2022 every day up in the mountains of Wrightwood..  I love the quality and style of these pieces.  They remind me of Old Hollywood.  The women who work there are very sweet and helpful.  

Catherine and I met on day one, and we hit it off immediately.  We enjoyed sitting together with her mom at some of our meals, played ping pong on the deck, and had several long, intimate conversations.  There was definitely a soul connection.  We have kept in touch, and plan to travel together again someday. 

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Back Home From Alaska

 

Hello again!  I returned from a gorgeous coastal cruise on Oceania’s Regatta earlier this week.  We embarked in LA,  headed up the coast through Oregon, and finished in Vancouver, BC.

Cruising under the Golden Gate Bridge was a highlight of the trip.  I woke up early, at 5:00 a.m., so that I wouldn’t miss it.  I took a tour of the city, and saw sights that I had never seen, although I grew up twenty miles from there.  

Alaska, as always, was a gem.  The views and atmosphere were  spectacular.  There is such a nurturing and special feeling in the air; it feels untouched by civilization.  I enjoyed a couple of kayaking expeditions with my fellow travelers.  Each day was exciting and new.  The food on Oceania was superb.

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Staying Outside of Palma in Mallorca

 

On my trip to Mallora last spring, I decided to spend one night in the mountains.  Prices at pensions outside of the tourist areas are much more affordable.   It can be very difficult to get a taxi from the airport in Palma, but I got straight to the front of the line and jumped in one.  I had a friendly female driver and gave her the address to my home for the night outside of the city. 

It was a pastoral setting, so I spent my time relaxing, taking walks in the area, stopping for a pizza at the nearby restaurant, (there was only one,) and reading.  The soil and animals looked healthy and natural.  

The inn where I stayed had a sparkling pool with a lovely garden.  The sound of the water was so relaxing.  Breakfast, which was included, was a delightful spread with lots of variety.  This bed and breakfast is run by a couple who relocated there.  Their young daughter was with them in the morning; she was such a cutie.  The stonework was impressive, inside and outside the home.

Stumbling upon these sheep excited the knitter in me.  It was such a quiet and peaceful area, in contrast to Palma, Mallorca, where I spent the next three nights.  That was a thrilling finish to my European vacation.  I think when I return, I will stay for a week in Palma.  The hotels, restaurants, and sights were first class.   It just appealed to me on so many levels.  May was the ideal time of year to visit.  It wasn't too crowded, and the temperatures were warm and pleasant.  Summers can be extremely hot there, according to my taxi driver.

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Cruising From Your Home City

 

If you happen to live near a cruise port, taking a cruise from your home city can save you money, time, and stress.  You don't need to book a flight or worry about it being late of canceled, and you can drive yourself to the port and park in long term parking.

I did just that a couple of weeks ago, on the Norwegian Bliss.  I found an affordable deal on a balcony room, and decided to cruise to Mexico for some sunshine and rest.  I needed a break after all of that snow shoveling last month.  

NCL did not disappoint.  The food was divine, I enjoyed the Vibe Beach Club, and Jersey Boys was spectacular.  The ship was completely full, so I used Vibe for a private sunbathing and jacuzzi experience.  I noticed that there were still plenty of deck chairs available near the pool, though.  

I checked out an engrossing book on Alaska from the ship's library.  Reading is so relaxing.  As always, Cagney's was my favorite specialty restaurant.  I love the filet mignon, creamed spinach, and bread.  Because of the dangers in Mexico, I didn't get off the ship.  There was plenty to do onboard; I entered the Miss Biceps contest, went to the gym, did yoga in my room, knit a pair of pink socks, walked the track, and swam in the saltwater pool. 

After disembarking, I drove home on the 405 freeway, and was on the couch, in the living room by 9:30 a.m.  A very convenient journey. 

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Getting a Refund For a Canceled Flight or Cruise

 

Last June, I planned a trip from Miami through the Panama Canal.  It was a fifteen night cruise with NCL.  I found an excellent deal, and booked a flight on Delta Airlines.  I got an excellent price through Travelocity.  Unfortunately, I started receiving emails from them saying that my flight number had been changed.  This happened twice.  Shortly after that, I was notified by email that my flight had been canceled. 

I called the cruise line to see if I could rebook a flight through them.  It would have cost me thousands of dollars at that point, because hotel prices in Miami were now astronomical, and they wanted a two-night minimum.  My original flight got me to the port the morning of our departure.  The only comparable flight was out of Ontario, which was a three-hour drive from my cottage.  

Fortunately, I had purchased the premium travel insurance that NCL offers.  I realized I needed to cancel the cruise.  NCL gave me two thirds of my money back, and advised me to file a claim for the rest.  Travelocity gave me a refund right away, which was a relief.  (I had purchased flight insurance, as well.)

The insurance company asked for an uploaded copy of my itinerary, a receipt from NCL, and had me fill out a short form, giving the dates that I had booked the cruise and paid for the insurance.

Travel insurance is key!  With all the airlines overbooking these days, it is worth the money.  I have recently been doing more local travel, since that way I can drive myself.  

Have you ever been in this situation?

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Do You Get Seasick on Cruises?

 

Normally, I do not get seasick when I am enjoying a cruise.  This last Alaskan trip, however, was an exception.  The second night of our journey we hit some rough seas.  My stomach felt like it was dropping.  "Uh oh," I thought.  Since I had eaten a hearty breakfast and lunch, I skipped dinner and laid flat on my back in my bed.  As long as I was in that position, I didn't feel like I was going to vomit.  I went to bed early, and slept soundly.  

The next morning, I made a beeline for the gift shot and purchased some acupressure wrist bands for motion sickness. I also grabbed a box of medicine for seasickness.  I took one of the tablets as soon as I returned to my room, and placed the bracelets over my pulse points.  The relief was instantaneous!

The next morning, my kind room steward told me that the halls had been empty the previous night.  Apparently, many of the other passengers felt like I did.  The rest of the cruise was smooth sailing on calm waters.  I was still glad that I had bought those remedies, though.  I will pack them with me next time.

How about you? Do you ever get seasick or experience motion sickness on car and train rides?

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