We're On Board!

This is to let everyone know that we have sailed off and will be off-line from October 29th through November 19th 2008. With a final count of 82 friends and family who will be cruising 10 ports and 6 countries sailing on the lovely Celebrity Summit in the Mediterranean.

Our thanks to all our loyal readers and hope that this blog was helpful if not at least fun for you to visit with us. We will post a final blog notation upon our return before we close our final chapter
in our Med Cruise 2008 blog. So until then ...

Bon Voyage Everyone!
Fondly,

Diana & Roger's Med Cruise 2008

You're Invited..Snapfish Group Room

An invitation to Snapfish.com (a photo website) Group Room was sent to your email inbox. Depending on how your computer is set up, the invitation might have been dumped into your JUNK or SPAM FOLDER. Please check this in your email box so that you don’t miss out on this communication.

We have enclosed the address link & room code to our Snapfish.com Group Room in the email invitation. Hope you get a chance to explore this group room and take advantage of this opportunity to share your adventure and special moments with others on this upcoming Mediterranean Cruise. Oh and their photo service is great and simple to use.

Remember if you take the address link and code with you. You can also access it on-line at the internet cafe on board the ship, once you register. It's FREE! Downloading your photo or video will help you clear out space on your camera disk space for even more photos.

If you want to learn about Snapfish Group Room check out their website. Any other questions, Roger says don't call me, I don't know what she's talking about .... feel free to contact Diana!

Photo logo from Snapfish.com ...double click to open & learn about Snapfish! You'll love it!

Nautical & Ship Language

Though not necessary to get around the ship, knowing the ship terminology makes it fun and kind of an authentic seafaring experience. Here are a few terms that will make you look like you’re a seasoned cruiser as well as get you familiar with your floating home for the next few days…

Aft - Towards the rear of the ship

Amidships - Towards or at the middle of the ship

Astern - Behind the ship

Beam - Ship’s width at the widest point

Below - The area below the “Main Deck”

Berth - Quay, dock or pier where the ship ties up or the act of so doing. Also a term used aboard ship for a sleeping point or bed.

Bilges - The lowest part of the ship

Boat Station - The place taken by passengers during lifeboat drill

Bow - The forward pointed part of the ship which acts as a control center

Bridge - The forward and upper part of the ship

Bulkhead - Interior partition or wall aboard ship

Cabin - Passenger’s room, otherwise known as a stateroom

Captain - Overall commander of the ship

Chief Engineer - Officer responsible for mechanical well being of the ship

Course - Ship’s passage in a given direction expressed in degree

Cruise Director - Individual in charge of entertainment and on-board activities

Disembark - To get off the ship

Embark - To join a ship for a voyage

Fantail- The rear, overhanging part of the ship

Fore- Front part of the ship

Galley- Ship’s kitchen

Gangway- The passageway or stairway that links the ship to the quayside

Hotel Manager- Officer in charge of passenger service

Launch- A small boat that transfers passengers from ship to shore when the vessel is unable to berth

Leeward- The side of the ship that is sheltered from the wind

Lifeboat- A small boat that transfers passengers to a rescue ship during emergencies

Lifejacket- An inflatable jacket that allows the wearer to float in water

Muster Station- Assembly point in an emergency

Passenger Ratio The number of passengers divided by the number of crew gives the ratio.

Crew ratio- The lower this Crew ratio figure, the better the on-board service will be

Port-The left-hand side of the ship, when facing forward

Purser- Officer in charge of finance

Stabilizer- A retractable device that protrudes from the hull below waterline to providestability when the ship is moving

Staff Captain- The second in command of the Captain

Starboard- The right hand side of the ship, when facing forward

Stateroom- Passenger’s room, otherwise known as the cabin

Stern- The rear flat part of the ship, opposite the bow

Tender- A small boat that transfer passengers from ship to shore when the ship is unable to berth

Windward- The side of the ship that is not sheltered from the wind

Nautical terms provided by DK Eyewitness Travel Cruise Guide to Europe and the Mediterranean

Photo provided by Flickr Just-Us-3

Reaching Eze and Monaco from Villefranche sur Mer

Here is link to another map of Villefranche sur Mer.

Thanks to a Susan on Cruise Critic, here are some instructions for taking the bus to Eze and Monaco. They are rather detailed and may be too much info, but at least there is a less expensive way to see the area:

The tenders stop at Port de la Sante. You can walk up to the Octroi bus stop ... on this map, it is in the bottom left corner, where the green area (park) is ... there's a TI, and two bus stops shown. You'll catch the bus on the same side of the street as the park. The orange area is the Citadel...with the bus stops above. It's an uphill climb...about 10 minutes. Walked towards the Citadel and then up.

Catch bus #100 in Villefranche and get off in Eze Bord du Mer at either Eze David or Gare SNFC stop. Great information, including maps and schedules are located here at the Ligne Azur. Enter the date that we'll be there, and once the schedule comes up, you can see different times by clicking on "earlier" or "later" and you can also get the opposite direction. The schedule with stop names, will help you track of the stops and then you'll know when to get off.

At Eze Bord du Mer, you'll transfer to Bus #83 which will take you up to Eze Village. #83 doesn't run that frequently, so I would try to co-ordinate your departure from Villefranche with #83 so that you aren't sitting at the bus stop in Eze Bord du Mer for an hour. You can find the schedule for #83 here: (see "Depart Eze Bord du Mer" in the 4th column of the chart for #83). I would aim for a bus from V.F. at around 9:15 and then the 9:55 bus to Eze Village.

From Eze Village, you'll take #112 to Monte Carlo (see the Ligne d'Azur site). Again, this bus doesn't run that frequently, but if you know the schedule, you'll avoid waiting around for it. Probably the 12:50 bus would be a good one, which would get you to Monte Carlo at approx. 1:15. The schedule doesn't show Monte Carlo in the list of stops (instead, I think it shows the last stop in France, however, the bus does go to Monte Carlo). You can also see a simplified schedule for #112 on the schedule I posted above for Eze). Getting off in Monte Carlo was a bit of a guess ... the bus travels on a road above (uphill) from the Casino.

Photo from Flckr user JerryGoure .

Barcelona Bistronomics...by Laura

Here is an excerpt from and a link to a July 6, 2008 article in the NY Times about “Bistronomics” bistros in Barcelona.

“Barcelonans have Pau Arenós, a journalist who writes frequently on food for the local newspaper, El Periódico, to thank for the term. “I was noticing this new kind of restaurant, places opened by young chefs, without investors or a lot of money, but with excellent technical training,” he said in an interview. “I needed a word to describe what I was seeing to my readers. The solution? A combination of bistro (a nod to the traditional dishes that form the starting point for these chefs) and gastronomia (a reference to the haute cuisine techniques used to update them) produced bistronomia.”

I also discovered a lot more information about Barcelona on their website. In the search on the New York Times main page, I used Bistronomics.
Looking forward to some good eating!
Laura

Outlets and other Electronic Info & Tidbits...from Alex

Just in case you want to know...
There are 2-3 electrical outlets in each cabin. One for shavers in the bathroom, one by the bed, another by the vanity, and possibly one other. They are 110 volts..American use. There are not any DVD players, except in the suites and no IPod hook ups. The TV does not have an audio or video jack so it cannot be used for a DVD player. If you have a DVD player that has it's own screen, you're allowed to bring that. There is mini-bar in each cabin and also hair dryers in the bathroom.





Photo provided by Diana

Verizon Global Phone - The SAGA CONTINUES by Karen V

I have just finished talking to Verizon! I jumped the gun slightly, but it was actually okay because I have minor details that I can now relate to you.

Their number is 1-800-711-8300. Enter your 10-digit cell number and then 2 to reach a person.

Verizon suggests you call to set up your Global Phone rental 7 days prior to departure. This is for 2 reasons:

1. Because the phone ships immediately and arrives FedEx, so you should receive it in 2 days (note: it will require a signature, so please be sure someone is home, or be prepared to retrieve it from your local FedEx branch if they leave you a notice).
And,
2. Because the Value Plan, which is the special pricing plan that you can get for Europe, is for a 30-day period. Once you get your phone and activate it, you will have 30 days to use the plan AND RETURN the phone.

Quick Reminders:

* The Value Plan costs $4.99 for the 30 days and is pro-rated for the time you use it. If you use it only 21 days and return the phone in the 30 days, you pay for days used only (roughly 17 cents a day). The cost in the countries we'll visit is $0.99/per minute under this plan, versus $1.29 per minute without the plan. Croatia does cost a little more per minute...$1.29/per minute under the plan.


* Verizon office hours for the Global Services division are Monday thru Friday ONLY....from 5:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Pacific Time. This allows you plenty of opportunities to reach them, just be sure it's during the week so you don't lose any time with shipment of your order.

* The phones are nice, newer style phones which are feature rich and include a charger and the adaptors you might need.

* The phone does NOT come pre-programmed with your number after all. That was too cumbersome in case folks wanted to change at the last minute. However, once you receive the phone, call the number on the instruction sheet from a LANDLINE phone or cell phone OTHER THAN yours. They will walk you through steps to program your Global phone with your cell number. This takes your phone out of service immediately, so that's why you can't be using the actual phone during the transfer process.

* The process to program the Global phone takes just a few minutes, so if you want to do that even on the way to the airport (and it's during their business hours), you could wait that long. I don't advise that, but it's possible to do.

* When you are in the U.S. your current price plan is still in effect. Once you start “roaming” you will incur the Value Plan pricing.

* One of the other cost saving measures is Texting. Some of us may just want to meet up with each other after various excursions or special "finds". If one knows how to Text, which sadly I have barely tried, they can send a text message to one of their Verizon companions in Europe for a nominal fee. It’s $0.50 to send and only $0.05 is charged to the receiver. Much less expensive than a call, but not necessarily the perfect option. I'm going to practice up punching letters and symbols though.

* To call back to the U.S., one must dial the international codes, BUT there is a short cut for part of it. The PLUS (+) sign on the phone is programmed to dial the country code for the U.S., so one need only dial the Area Code+Number to reach home. Those wishing to call you from the U.S. should use their cell phone and simply dial your number as if you were down the street. (Tip: Hold down the Star key for a few seconds and it becomes a Plus.)

* I am told much of this technical data is on an instruction sheet which comes with the phone. Verizon staff are also available to assist you if you have questions or problems, so I'm trusting that we won't feel "lost in translation".

Bon Voyage Everyone…and Happy Chatting!

Photo provided by Flickr JonJon2k8

Personalize & Decorate your Stateroom Door...

Thanks to our cruiser Jean and Gary owners of "The Label Company", they have kindly donated to each stateroom a removable door label. See picture on left. The label is 8.5 inches x 14 inches. We will be giving this to each of our stateroom once we board and you are welcome to decorate and personalize it as long as you keep it on the label so that there will not be any damages to the cabin doors.


We thought it would be fun and yes those willing to participate might be the big winner for a surprise prize! Although the label has a theme with our logo...personalizing makes it creative and fun. Yes, Roger and I will be decorating ours...but we will not be in the contest, so fear not - one less competitor !

Ideas that I had for our door label were to use cruise or port of call theme scrapbook stickers, stick on letters for our names & also for our cruise critic names, personal photos of Roger and I and photos of our destination and highlights. I also want to hang a pen and sticky notes for our guests who might come by and want to leave a note for us...okay so now it's your turn to get creative or not. A simple note with a permanent marker for all is cool as well. These items can easily be purchased at stores such as Michael's, Target, Wal-Mart to name a few. It's fun and the creative side is endless so enjoy and relax a bit.


Just remember please keep your decorations on the label which is REMOVABLE and it will not damage the stateroom door. Thanks for your cooperation with your decoration activity! And as always this is an optional activity.



Photo and label contribution by The Label Company - http://www.thelabelco.net/

VERY IMPORTANT NOTICE: Need Your Help!

Heads up everyone…need your attention and help. I have been informed that Alex our travel agent is on priority red alert as she is expecting our cruise documents to be arriving this upcoming week. Alex has informed that she will be reviewing each of the documents before sending them to you. And just so you know, she will have some 84 guests in our group …so that’s a lot of cruise documents. I think you're getting the picture.

I am anticipating that we all should be receiving the documents sometime after the week of October 13 providing of course that Alex gets them from Celebrity Cruise as she hopes too. During the next week or so, I would like each of you to see if we can minimize our impact to Alex. So that she can concentrate on getting our cruise documents to us in the most expeditious manner she can. Send your communication via email to Alex and please be patient for the response! Let’s allow her to get through all of our numerous cruise travel plans and it's paperwork.

Once we get our cruise document, make it a priority to review the information in detail and verify that your information is correct. If there is some sort of discrepancy to your cruise documents, please contact Alex immediately so she can assist you.
Thanks everyone for your help!
Diana

Photo provided by Flickr asparina

PROPER DINING ATTIRE……By Roger Davis

Can you imagine……..Diana actually asked me to write an article on proper dining attire for our
upcoming cruise. Kinda like asking the fox to write up security procedures for the hen house…. or better yet, asking Ozzie Osborne to write an article for GQ magazine. So please remember who’s writing this!!

This is primarily for the guys since I really have no clue what’s appropriate for you ladies. I mean hell, I’m all for a clothing optional cruise package. However, in this case there will be three formal nights and eleven smart casual and above nights on our cruise. So, the following is a direct quote from one of the Celebrity websites along with some of my comments/observations.
Evening Dress Codes

Celebrity’s evening dress codes now include two types: “formal” and “smart casual and above”. The daily newsletter, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations/Purser’s Desk, will be your guide to the appropriate evening attire.

Formal Night Attire: Ladies: Evening gown or fancy dress. Gentlemen: Tuxedo, dinner jacket or dark suit. For us guys, renting the formal wear from the cruise line is the easiest……no packing and no cleaning……everything will be waiting in your cabin when you get on board. Of course some of us (directed mainly toward Buzz) may want to bring some special bow tie or cummerbund or cuff links or ?? To order, visit http://www.cruiselineformal.com/ and click on Men’s Apparel then Celebrity Cruise. You’ll need specific information about the cruise (sailing date/port plus your stateroom & reservation number) and, of course, your measurements and a credit card number. Note: if you’re not sure of your measurements, go to a Men’s Wearhouse and they’ll do it for you for free and that inseam measurement is always fun anyway!!
Smart Casual and Above: (wonder who thought up this Gucci term??) Ladies: Skirt or pants (no holes, rips or tears) complemented by sweater or blouse. Gentlemen: Pants (no holes, rips or tears) with sport shirt or sweater. Shirts must have sleeves. I’d like to think I may have influenced this new code (used to be a jacket, shirt and tie for many nights) since I would not wear a tie nor a jacket to the non-formal nights………..way to go Roger.

Note: T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant or specialty restaurant at any time. Shorts and flip flops are not allowed in the evening hours. Additionally, guests are asked to follow the “Smart Casual and Above” dress code in the Celebrity Theater for all evening performances.
Dining in jeans detracts from the overall ambience and is therefore not allowed in the main dining room after 6:00 p.m.

Evening dress codes apply to both main restaurant dining as well as specialty restaurant dining.
Before Six: Dining options abound aboard Celebrity. For breakfast and lunch, jeans, shorts and casual daywear are allowed in all dining venues before 6:00 p.m. After 6:00 p.m., this attire allowed only in casual restaurants and cafes.

As I mentioned earlier, remember who’s writing this. If, for some reason you feel I am writing this under duress (and I will be showing up for dinner in my usual attire…..an I BUY JAPANESE SWORDS T-shirt, shorts and flip flops) and you do not follow my advice and are asked to leave the ship at the first available port it will do you absolutely no good to say “but Roger said it would be OK”. Their attitude will only get worse as they recall my name and my “accident” in my last formal wear rental.

Let the eating begin!! Burrrrrrrp!!!

Photo provided by Flickr dcJohn

Diana’s Packing 101 – Top 10 Hints to get you started

So the days are fast approaching to getting on the cruise ship and airline luggage requirements are still strict and costly. An efficient packer for the cruise is a must. The similar packing tip and hint for cruising IS to PACK LIGHT, but this is easier said than done. What if I need this and can’t live without that? Hopefully, in this posted blog you can get organized so you can be successful with your minimal luggage and yet still be appropriately and comfortably dressed from casual to formal. So let’s get started...

Tip No. 1 Begin with a calendar and know how many days you will have to prepare for your attire. I sent a matrix form of our cruise days with an extension of pre and post cruise days. You can use this if you like. If you need another copy feel free to contact me and let me know. This is very important as you should plan to bring only the appropriate outfit for the days you need. For our Celebrity Mediterranean cruise the following link which can help you decided the number of outfits you will need for the cruise and then add your before and after outfits as well. Remember…you can wear your outfit more than ONCE. And there is laundry service available on the cruise ship for a mid-trip wash, if you need it. The success of this tip is to coordinate your outfit daily so you know what you specifically have to take.

Tip No. 2 If you are a concierge class category guest on the Celebrity Summit cruise ship, it would be helpful to know what that means as this will help you eliminate a number of items that you thought about bringing with you. Here is a link to what the Summit offer. In addition, Alex has shared that the Concierge Class also includes: Celebrity Tote Bag, Personalized stationary, Complimentary use of Umbrella and Binoculars. Hair dryers are also included on the ships and check your hotel as most places have this feature as part of their amenities. You’ll save space and weight in your luggage.

Tip No. 3 As some of you loyal blog readers know, Kay had previous shared that Celebrity has a new dress policy for cruise guests. Yup if any of you know Roger, the answer is YES, he is gonna have to change his “I Buy Japanese Sword” T-Shirt attire.
Samples of “Smart Casual and Above” as well as “Formal” attire are noted in the following.

SMART CASUAL AND ABOVE Ladies: Skirt or pants (no holes, rips or tears) complemented by sweater or blouse. Gentlemen: Pants (no holes, rips or tears) with sports shirt or sweater. Shirts must have sleeves.Note: T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant or specialty restaurant at any time. Shorts and flip flops are not allowed in the evening hours. Additionally, guests are asked to follow the "Smart Casual and Above" dress code in the Celebrity Theater for all evening performances.

FORMAL Ladies: Cocktail dress, gown or dressy pantsuit. Gentlemen: Tuxedo, suit or dinner jacket with slacks

Tip No. 4 Mix and Match as well as color coordinate your outfits! My personal favorites are the colors, Black and Red for most of my outfits. I mix and match garment pieces and I also use scarves, jewelry, belts and wraps to accentuate my outfits to look different as well as reflecting a more casual to dressy look. Items such as these are small and can easily be packed with minimal space. Layering pieces also allows for options in look and also keeps you warm. Men should also color coordinate and mix and match. For men’s formal wear, Roger likes the convenience of formal rental through the cruise ship. It does make life easier.

Tip No. 5 Cruise ship staterooms are not as luxurious in size as a nice hotel room, unless you are in a larger suite. So space can be limiting especially when you share it with two or more individuals. So take this helpful hint that I have used. Take a foldable Closet/Pantry Pocket organizer for the back of your bath/room door and a collapsible closet shoe organizer. These two items will be a wonderful addition. You can keep items in the bathroom at an easy reach and offer alternatives to minimal counter space, especially in the bathroom. Additionally, the closet shoe organizer makes additional shelves that can hold items such as your scarf, evening purse, ties, cummerbund as well as organize your evening wear for that night.

Tip No. 6 Here’s a must…make a list of your items you will be packing in your suit case. Two things about this one task…this will help you get organized as to what you have to wear and need for your trip. And it will also double as a back-up in case you lose your luggage. Be sure you keep a list on-hand in your carry-on as well as a list in your suitcase.

Tip No. 7 Unlike being at home with your closet full of clothes to choose from. Your cruise closet will be limited to your suitcase. So here’s two major helpful travel clothes tips…1. Avoid white or light clothes. You can count on them staining with some sort of red sauce during the trip. 2. Avoid wrinkle clothes. There are clothes made with fabric like crinkle gauze, cotton jersey, Tencel® /Lyocell, spandex blends or cottons that have been treated to avoid creases and all wear well during travel.

Tip No. 8 Okay now you have a list of all your items. The horror of September 11th has changed the way we travel. So go over each item you have and be sure you check your Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations to be sure you don’t have those illegal item which not only include weapons or can be weapons like knitting needles and/or liquids . There are exceptions as always and so planning and preparation is necessary. So check the guidelines.

Tip No. 9 Our technological world these days has me doing research on what to do about all our electronic toys we just seem to need to take with us. Whether your cell phone, IPOD, Blackberry, Laptop or some other gizmo and gadget I forgot to mention, the cruiser needs to be prepared. The Celebrity Summit concierge class has two 110V and two 230 outlet near the desk as I found out through the Cruise Critic Message Board. Additionally, there is one 110V in the bathroom for a shaver and I believe I read on yet another Cruise Critic member response for the Summit that someone found one also behind the TV. Because of the limited available electrical outlets many experience cruisers bring a power squid, strip or even a plain extension cord. A 230 volt European adapter would also expand your outlet usage.

Tip No. 10 Resources these days seems endless with our access to the internet. I’ve highlighted some of my favorites for packing links. Linda Hoffman, Cruise Diva happens to be one I use often. But I have also added some other links to help you with ideas for coming up with what works for you. So allow me to introduce you to these websites and I hope you will find them as helpful as it has been for me over the years … Bon Voyage here we come.

Photo provided by Target.com (See tip no. 5 for shopping resource)

Cruise & Travel - PACKING LINKS, TIPS, HINTS & LISTS

Here you go, following are some of my favorite links that I compiled to help you explore and plan your packing items for your cruise. Besides your wardrobe there are handy recommended items that will make your trip a more pleasant journey including a medical first aid kit suggestion. Hopefully, this will give you some great ideas to make your own list that works for you! Just remember we will be in civilization, so you don’t have to bring everything including the kitchen sink…pack light everyone!
Enjoy your journey,
Diana

Learn how to pack light

Packing & Traveling Light recommendation

Pack Light and Travel Happy-Rick Steve

Traveler’s Mantra: Pack Light, Pack Light, Pack Light

Ultimate Guide to Packing Light: 45 Tips to lighten your load

Cruise Clues Packing list link

Packing Link from Kay's & Susan's message Board Members for Celebrity Summit 11/01/2008…

Cruise Diva: Cruise Travel: Planning & Packing & Lists

Cruise Diva: Cruise Packing Tips

Cruise Diva: Packing It In

Cruise Critic Packing Article -76

Cruise Critic Packing Article - 311

About.com - Cruise vacation pack list

Women & Men Cruise Pack list

About.com – Packing list for cruise accessories

Rick Steve’s Travel Tip - Menu

Rick Steve’s Travel Tip - Packlist

Reidsguides.com

Best Cruisespot Official Pack List

Cruise Packing List – Cruise Direct On-Line Video link

Independent Traveler Packing Tips

Travel Smith – Packing Option

Magellan’s Packing List

Photo provided by Flickr Photofarmer

Packing Demo on October 3rd - Crystal Court Costa Mesa

Just a friendly reminder that our Packing Demo Workshop at Talbots Women, Crystal Court at South Coast Plaza Costa Mesa open it's door at 8:30am and the demo will be at 9:00am.

The closest place to park is on the second level, center mall entrance near Wahoo at Crystal Court Parking Structure

Our sailing date is getting closer everyone...feel free to comment on some of your favorite packing ideas on this blog article comments.
Bon Voyage ready or not!
Diana

Shop Till You Drop…but know about the VAT by Karen V.

VAT, Value Added Tax…Some of you may find the shops in the Mediterranean irresistible. Others will buy trinkets and postcards at best. For anyone purchasing big ticket items, such as artwork or jewelry, know that most European Union countries automatically assess a Value Added Tax to your purchase – generally in the price. If you are taking a costly item home, you could get a refund on this tax (By the way. food and hotel charges do not refund the VAT). The VAT can be a pretty big ticket cost as well…almost 19% in many countries…so it may be worth the effort for you to collect a refund. Don’t despair, it does take much effort on your part. Here’s a Rick Steve's article on the subject and another link to one specific to Barcelona.

Whether you choose to try to obtain a refund or not, the purchases you make will be a very special reminder of your wonderful vacation in the Mediterranean. As the MasterCard commercials say, it’s Priceless! So keep your receipt just in case you want to follow-up. With that in mind, shop till you drop…..do I hear baubles tinkling, Diana?

Photo provided by Flickr: .zoe

Acqua Alta in Venice - Full Moon November 13

Did you know that while we are in Venice there is a very good chance that there will be flooding? I had seen this in a Lifetime movie, with everyone acting very nonchalant about the fact there was five inches of water in St. Marks Square. And then we started having a discussion over on Cruise Critic about this occurrence -- and what to do if it should happen while we are there!

Here is a quote from this Venice tour site:

“Acqua Alta” as its known by the Venetians is a regular occurrence in Venice. There are numerous factors that can play a role in creating the high waters that flood the city of Venice. The main culprit is the tidal flow of the Adriatic as it pushes water into the Lagoon. This tidal flow tends to be at its most influential at the beginning and end of the full moon cycle.

Although, typically, Venice if it does flood tends to flood around the changing of the seasons in the Fall and the Spring. November is normally the worst month for flooding in Venice...

Another reason for the flooding is the winds from the south and high barometric pressure pushing water up to the Venice area. Rick Steves reports that there is a measuring device you can see at the side of the Campanile in St. Marks Square. When the water level rises one meter, a warning siren sounds. Another good explanation is the article on Wikipedia on the Acqua Alta.

So you see the fact that the full moon would be November 13, and we arrive in Venice on Saturday, November 15, is important. But the website goes on to say that in one year in the third week of November the water was so low (and the temperature below freezing) you could almost walk across from the mainland.

So what to do? Venice for Visitors website provides great pictures of the flooding and suggests what to do. You could buy galoshes to take with you like these, which will probably be good enough unless there is extreme flooding. The flooding usually only lasts for a few hours, and the city does provide wooden walkways in some areas when this occurs. You could take some garbage bags and string from home. Or you could buy boots in Venice.

And here are more pictures,
by apollard17b.

Top picture courtesy of Flicker user Gweneal Paiser.

Don't forget to vote

Don't forget to get your "absentee"* ballot to vote in the general Presidential election. The election is November 4, 2008 (in case you had forgotten).

If you are in California you can send in your request at any time up until 7 days before the election (which is October 28 --please don't wait that long). You can get info about voting by mail (for Californians) at the Secretary of State website. I filled out the form to mail, but then I went to my local county website and it provided a way to electronically request a ballot to vote by mail! (We will see if that works.)

*Apparently "absentee" is no longer politically correct and in California such terminology has been changed to "vote by mail." Okay.

Map of Istanbul

Here is a map of the section of Istanbul that we will be in.


View Larger Map

The pink arrow is where there are some ships docked, at the tip of the "Golden Horn." There is a shuttle from the ship, plus trams and taxis located nearby.

The yellow arrow is the Hagia Sophia.

The green arrow is the Topkapi Palace.

The purple arrow is the Blue Mosque.

The aqua arrow is the Grand Bazaar.

The red arrow is the Basilica Cistern and the blue arrow is the Hippodrome.

See this review on Cruise Critic for a do-it-yourself tour of Istanbul.

SALE till September 15th...Garmin Nuvii 270 by Jim

For those who get lost a lot in new cities....

Could come in very handy for any traveling in Europe and North America.
Most of the other units I have seen charge you a very small fortune to add in maps of Europe.
Preloaded with maps for North America and Europe.

Check out the Garmin Nuvii 270 with 3.5" screen - Only $199 at Costco.com
Sale only through September 15th.

Jim

Barcelona - Montserrat & Winery Tour...info by June

Here's a wonderful option for those who want to take advantage of a shore excursion in Barcelona. One of our cruise guest that you have yet to meet (including me!) is June from the Big Island of Hawaii. June is a sister to Sue who you also have not met yet as she and her husband George lives in New York!

Roger and I met Sue and George on our China trip and having made a connection we invited them to our Mediterranean Cruise. Obviously Roger was surprisingly well behaved and they have decided to join us.

June is interested with her group in the Montserrat & Winery Tour by isango.com . You can double click and explore this and other tours offered by this website if you are interested.

Alex has brought to my attention that Celebrity cruise does not offer any shore excursions in Barcelona. Additionally, I believe there is only one port excursion for Venice through the Celebrity Cruise Shore Excursion and that is VE19- Padua &Airport Transfer.

If you are interested in contacting June for more detail, please feel free to reach either Alex or myself on how to go about communicating with June and her group or book directly on line as noted on the link for isango.com

Photo provided by Montserrat Barcelona, Flickr: Mauricio Pellegrinetti

The Metric World

Centimeters, Kilograms, Meters and Celsius...what do these mean? Feel like we're in another world? United States may be in Farenheit, Miles, Pounds and Yards...but visiting another foreign country is not always the same as back home.

Double click, World Wide Metric Conversion Calculator so you can begin to understand when you see that 70 degrees Farenheit means 21 degrees Celsius and 1 kilogram equals approximately 2.2 pounds (Therefore, 1/4th pound equals 1/10th of a kilogram...a handy hint for your cheese and ham purchases at the Boqueria and Campo de Fiori).

Not good with numbers like me? Be prepared and jot it down ahead of time. You don't want to make the mistake of ordering 22 pounds of Iberico Ham, do you?

Photo provided by Bludgeoner86's.Flickr

When in Rome… by Karen V

On this cruise we will have the opportunity to visit so many amazing places. It’s going to be a terrific time that we will never forget. There will be surprises around every corner and cobble-stoned alley, so have your cameras and sense of adventure in tow. And a sense of humor sometimes too!

Things may not be to our usual expectations or customary choices when we are visiting the beautiful places on this trip. Lunch at that outdoor café may not have your favorite diet drink or light meal. They may charge for water or add tips or taxes automatically. Service may take longer than you’d ever wait at home. Don’t let these things ruin a good time. It’s all part of the journey and experience.

Watch how the locals handle themselves when ordering food or drink. Mimic greetings and customs offered to you…even if you mess up the language. Keep that smile on your face and a ready laugh and things will turn out just great.

Written by Karen V.

Photo provided by flickr. photogourmand

NEW ADDRESS...Innovative Travel Planner

Wanted to relay this information that Alex Kuncio our travel agent has a NEW ADDRESS:

4570 Campus Drive, Suite 52
Newport Beach, CA 92660

Same phone number 949/756-3223
Same email Bookit1@earthlink.net

Venice's City Square ....by Jim

Just wanted to let you know that Jim has forwarded some information on one of our Ports of Call, Venice. The article comes from Los Angeles Times Italy: Exploring sun-splashed Venice's city squares by Susan Spano, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer.

The article highlights the following city squares below but also has a lot of other side details and information of the area. Grazie Jim!

CAMPO SANTA MARIA FORMOSA, CASTELLO

CAMPO SAN ZACCARIA, CASTELLO

CAMPO SAN BARNABA, DORSODURO

Villefranche-sur-Mer area map

Here is a map of our first port of call, and a link to the port review for Villefranche.


View Larger Map

We arrive at the yellow arrow. Monaco/Monte Carlo is east (right) at the aqua arrow. Nice is west (left) at the blue arrow. Nice is a couple of miles away. The train from Villefranche actually cuts through the mountain to reach Nice.

Eze (green) and St. Paul d'Vence (fuschia) are two popular destinations for tours in the area. Cannes is a green arrow off to the left (west) past Antibes.

These maps are great if you zoom out to see the overview of the area or zoom in for the details. Also, here is a web site, Real Travel, with lots of maps. The link will take you to a map similar to this one of the area, but it also links to maps of the specific destinations, like Nice.

P.S. Here is a link to another Villefranche map that is even better since it appears to be the official city map.

Diana's 10 PRE-CRUISE TIPS & HINTS

1. Add our Cruise Blog as Favorite or Bookmark
Roger & Diana’s Med Cruise Blog is our main source of communication with our cruisers. So if you would like some additional details and information that will enhance your cruise travel, you really do want to check this link regularly. Make life easier and sign up for “subscribe via email” for inbox delivery of new posting articles. Also don’t forget to add the Celebrity Cruise website as another favorite.

2. Cruise Critic and Celebrity Connection
Wanna add more fun to your cruise? How about adding a “free” activity while on the cruise? Do you like to learn about cruising and share your experiences? Do you like getting invited to a private party with others who love to cruise? Be sure you get involve and visit the links below and follow the various pages to get yourself signed up. If you need help, get in touch with either Kay or Diana. Looking forward to seeing you at the party…
Cruise Critic and Celebrity Connection Homepage link:
Cruise Critic and Celebrity Connection Party FAQ link:

3. Do your homework

Know what you want to do & see, study the ports, get out there and surf the net, visit the bookstore, talk to others who have traveled there before you or join one of the study groups. The more you plan and prepare the more you will see and do.

4. Connect with your buddy

Share the preparation with your cabin mate, initiate/join a study group, commit to communicating about the pre & post cruise and most important stay connected with your travel agent (Alex) and follow-through.

5. Don’t delay
There could be up to 2,034 passengers onboard the Celebrity Summit if the ship is at full capacity. So waiting to the last minute is not always the best for signing up for those must-do excursions and activities. Don’t procrastinate, you may loose out!

6. Read the fine print

In the back of the 2008 Celebrity’s Europe & Transatlantic Brochure there are a number of guideline and information to help in your planning and preparation. Be sure to read it. Also your Celebrity Cruise Line website can assist you with most questions you have. Still can’t find an answer to your question? Contact Alex at Innovative Travel Planner or email Diana at our cruise blog link on the side bar so we can help you.

7. Organize, Plan & Pack Lightly

Did you check your airline flight regulations for luggage? Because that is where it all begins. Renting formal wear on the cruise website for the guys and mixing and matching colors for the woman is what is going to keep your luggage at the required limit. Otherwise, bring more money because you will be paying for it!

8. Sign Up on MY CELEBRITY on-line

If you haven’t checked out the Celebrity Cruise Website, you need to do so. Alex has forwarded your Booking/Reservation Number which will allow you to update and/or complete you’re

MY CELEBRITY account. IMPORTANT, you will need to do this as you will have access to book on line prior to your cruise.

9. Check & Double check your travel/cruise documents

Assuming that you are current on your cruise payment, Alex should be receiving the cruise documents about 20-50days prior to sailing. Because we are lucky to have such a professional and conscientious agent, Alex will organize and double check each of our cruise documents prior to sending them to us. Now here it is, once you get your documents YOU NEED TO CHECK THEM IMMEDIATELY. There will be instructions and details of all your documents should be accurate and reflect what you had signed up for. If not, contact Alex IMMEDIATELY so she can take care of your problem. If you wait till the very last minute…you just might miss the plane, the boat and yes the fun! So don’t delay!

10. Open, Be flexible, have fun & enjoy the ride

The best made plans can even have flaws or unexpected circumstances. With security, rules, regulations and just a lot of people…relax and don’t fight it. You’re a traveler and a visitor, so acknowledge that we’re not at home and your adventure begins once you step out that door. Also remember this simple lesson that your mother taught you when company comes over or you’re out visiting a friend’s home, be polite, courteous and smile. You will not be alone or you can be alone…the choice is yours…but, whatever your cruise travel brings, remember half the fun is enjoying the ride to get there.

Photo provided by Flickr: Kasaa

Hello, hello…Are You There in Europe? By Karen V

For some of us, we just can’t be disconnected from our family, friends and places of work (if you still work). And of course, there are good reasons…like the Davises will be hearing news of grandchild #2 while away on our cruise or you found the perfect trattoria in Italy for mangia. Many of you are aware that only certain cell phones and certain companies can provide service overseas. AT&T is one company who uses GSM technology for their cellular service and that matches what is used in Europe. With the addition of a sim chip and an unlocked phone, those of you using AT&T should be able to make calls and reach each other when we are on our cruise. If you have AT&T and wish to take your cell phone overseas, contact a customer service representative to get more information on how to upgrade your phone.

Verizon also has an opportunity which allows their users to continue to communicate when in Europe using their current cellular number, but with a different phone. To do this does require a little work on your part, but Verizon also has it set up and packaged as simply as possible. Here’s the scoop.

Call Verizon at 1-800-711-8300 and speak with one of their well-informed representatives. For a quick overview, Verizon has a Global Traveler plan which provides a compatible phone, shipping and handling of the phone to your home, the return back to Verizon plus a choice of a calling plan which allows for reduced rates when calling home or within Europe.

This is a temporary type plan because the phone is sent to you on loan and the calling plan is only for the period you are loaned and using the phone. There is no charge for the loaner phone, you just pay shipping of $9.99 which includes arrival to your door and the return of the phone. The calling plan is in addition to your current calling plan and these charges are certainly not like those most of us have these days…that is to say virtually free, but they are not really too bad (considering the price of gas?).

What you get with Global Traveler for $9.99:
* A GSM compatible cell phone mailed to you approximately 3-4 days before departure.
* Return shipping label for return of phone in same box received (keep the box and packaging).
* Pre-programming to transfer your CURRENT cell number to the loaner phone. This means family and friends here can call you on your same cell number and they will not be charged for the call, nor have to figure out how to find the right country code, etc. Of course, YOU pay, so you may want to warn folks not to call just to chat.

How it works:
* Once you receive the phone, review the information provided carefully. There are several steps you must follow before and after you travel. For example, the phone must be returned within 30 days, or a charge of $199 will be assessed to your account.
* You can automatically transfer your “Contact” list to this loaner phone. Check the instructions provided for how to do this.
* You activate the phone a couple of days before departure after the Contact list is transferred (if desired) and your current phone will go out of service temporarily.
* You now use the loaner phone just as if it was your regular phone.
* Once in Europoe you will automatically fall into the calling plan rates that you have selected. There are 2 plans basically…roughly $1.29 per minute in all of our countries or a Value Pack plan which is $2.53 for the 2 weeks plus $0.99 per minute for calls made/received. The one exception is Croatia, which is about $0.50 more per minute on either plan. PLEASE review this information with the customer rep carefully as it does get confusing, especially regarding making and receiving calls to/from Europe and to/from the U.S.
* The phone will work on the Celebrity Summit as well, so family can reach you there on your same cell number and your friends on the cruise can find you (?). Those charges are a standard $2.49 per minute on the ship, not your regular rate or Traveler plan rate, so be careful of this option. How this works is that Celebrity has Verizon antennas on board which allow you to receive/make calls. When we get about 3 miles from port, the local antennas take over and your calls are routed through the system in that country (did you care?).
* When you return, you call Verizon again to let them know to turn off your loaner phone and reactivate your regular phone.
* Your next Verizon billing will contain all the charges for this service. DON’T FORGET, until you call them to tell them you’re back, you will be charged the European rates for calls made/received. Get back on your regular calling plan right away!!

Again, this is a very broad overview of the Verizon services. They will be happy to provide you great detail when you call. AT&T has their own calling plans and sim chips programs, so be sure you understand those programs before you subscribe. If you do not use one of these two carriers, call your current representative and ask them if they recommend a company for celluar phone service in European.

You can also check the Internet for cellular phones in Europe to see a wide array of companies that provide services on a loan type basis. There are also prepaid phones from cellular stores in most cities in Europe or at the airport. These rates are a little steeper, but the phone is a throwaway in the end. Your hotel concierge can point you in the right direction if you are arriving a few days before the cruise.

By the way, Verizon phones and your current calling plan are compatible with Mexico, so there is no need to exchange phones when traveling there. I hope this info provided a little bit of insight for you. Since this is a very personal decision, it’s important for you to check this out carefully before you commit to taking your phone to Europe. You can always be reached on the ship if there is an emergency (or vice versa). That information will be provided by Celebrity when you receive your cruise documents. Bon Voyage, Ciao, Adios and See you Aboard!!

Photo provided by FlickrJonJon2k

Naples area map

Sometimes it is just hard to imagine where we will be docking in relation to where the various tours and excursions will take us. Here is a map showing the layout of the Bay of Naples. We are docking in Naples (at the top of the bay). On this map I have marked some possible destinations: the first town south of Naples is Herculaneum, then Pompeii. The green blob in the middle of the map is the Mt. Vesuvius park. Sorrento is on the point at the bottom of the bay and then the Amalfi coast starts. The purple pin at the bottom is Positano. See this earlier post for discussion of the possible excursions in this port.

Note: I added a yellow arrow for Ravello, mentioned by Robin, here, as being a place for lunch on the tour she arranged.


View Larger Map

Cruise Payment Balance Due ... AUGUST 1, 2008

Friendly Reminder...
You should have all received your final payment invoice
from Alex by now. If not, please be sure you get in touch
with her as the balance of your cruise payment is due
this Friday, August 1, 2008.

If you have not done so, be sure you are on board a flight
to Barcelona as this is our embarkation port for November 1st.

And finally, you best be checking on your shore excursions before
your selections are not available.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact
Alex or me so we can get you on board pronto.

Want another Med Cruise Polo Shirt?

DEADLINE FOR ORDER SEPTEMBER 1, 2008

By now you all should have received your cruise gift goodie bag from Roger and me. A few of our cruisers have requested smaller sizes as they have stated that the polo shirts have been running larger in size. Unfortunately, we ordered just enough for each of our guests.

So you can look at this larger shirt as a huge advantage to allow more room for those extra meals you will be partaking on the cruise. Or if my suggestion of washing and drying in hot does not seem to shrink it enough and you haven’t taken it to the tailor for alteration as yet another suggestion.

Well, I have still a final option for you. I have contacted our vendor and they have quoted me a price for ordering another shirt, if you would like at your own expense, our Black Polo with Gray (1 color) embroidery logo for:

Sizes: Small/Medium/Large/Extra Large will be $21.00 per shirt with additional charge for shipping (this will vary pending where you live)

Sizes: 2XL and 3XL will be $23.00 plus shipping charge (again this charge will be pending your zip code on your shipping address).

If you are interested in this alternative option, please contact me no later than September 1, 2008.

Dress Code changes

The Celebrity dress code (see here) for the ship will be different for all sailings after August 1, 2008, meaning for our cruise. They no longer have an "informal" night where men were encouraged to wear sport coats. There are just two levels of evening wear - formal (three nights) and "Smart Casual and Above."

Smart Casual and Above (catchy title) is defined as:

Ladies: Skirt or pants (no holes, rips or tears) complemented by sweater or blouse.

Gentlemen: Pants (no holes, rips or tears) with sports shirt or sweater. Shirts must have sleeves.

T-shirts, bathing suits, etc., not allowed.

Sorry guys, your shirts must have sleeves. Huh

Kay T

THANKS ALEX, still yet another discount for us...WOW!

Kudos to our Travel Agent, Alex Kuncio! What an outstanding job for her recent news to me about the following cruise rate discount that she was able to get for our Med cruisers: Concierge Class ($200 per person or $400 per stateroom).

CORRECTION: The following categories do not get a reduction in their fares, but Category 2C can upgrade to Concierge Class for $200 per stateroom, Category 2B can upgrade for $160 per stateroom and finally Category 2A can upgrade for $100 per stateroom.

I personally can't thank you enough Alex for pursuing this for all of us. This noble action on your part demonstrates to me that you are a true and ethical professional with interests and loyalty to each of us on this cruise. I know that pursuing this action cuts your commission and it just reaffirms my belief of what I knew of you to be an honest, sincere and most important of all compassionate and caring person that I/we are lucky to have as our travel agent. Thank you so much for all your hard work and your continuous loyalty to provide the best service to each of us. Woo Hoo, outstanding customer service in my book....You Rock Girl!

Barcelona map and info

View Larger Map

Here is a map keyed to a list of a few sights in Barcelona (taken from a cruise critic post). This is of course just one person's opinion of the important sights. Also check the Travel Channel article about Barcelona from the last post and any other Barcelona info on the blog.

The ship dock is not far from the end of the Las Ramblas where it runs into the water. See the Port Review of Barcelona for info on the location of the port. I believe that it is where the red arrown is located on the map.

1. The Gothic Quarter (includes the Old Cathedral and the Palau de Musico and other interesting sites)...wander the narrow streets... (yellow arrow) Kay, Carol, Judy and Lesley are staying at a hotel where the yellow arrow is located.

2. Las Ramblas--the strolling boulevard...This is where you go to shop, to browse, to eat and to "peoplewatch"... (purple arrow)

3. Sagrada Familia--Absolutely do not miss...if you go nowhere else in Barcelona, go here...Gaudi's masterpiece, a cathedral like none other in the world. Here is some info in English. (aqua arrow) I just read another review of this and it said to get there first thing in the morning.

4. Casa Batllo--You guessed it, more Gaudi...A private residence with NO straight lines or right angles...wild...there is a self guided tour done with a walkman-type box with headphones... (light purple arrow)

5. Casa Mila--Yes, more Gaudi...this time an apartment building...You can tour a 1920s vintage apartment and there is a Gaudi museum in the top floor...and DO NOT MISS wandering up onto the roof...it's like being on another planet... (pink arrow)

6. Placa Catalunya--The large public square at the head of Las Ramblas...For all intent and purpose, the center of town...Go at night...it's a hub of activity...Along one side is "El Corte Ingles"--the extremely large department store where you can find anything--even reasonably priced souveniers and gifts...and, in the basement, there's a supermarket--this is where to load up on snacks, drinks and bottled water...You'll pay one/tenth for bottled water than you will at any shop in the tourist areas... (green arrow)

To get to other info here on the blog about Barcelona, scroll down and on the lower right find the labels. If you click on Barcelona you will be taken to all of the posts we have added that have anything to do with Barcelona. Some other Barcelona links not yet on the blog:

Port Review of Barcelona

Barcelona info

Bus Turistic - a hop on/off bus

Travel Channel Tips & Info ... by Jim

Jim shared these links for the following Ports of Call that we will be visiting through the eyes of the cable network Travel Channel and Samantha Brown's Passport to Travel Guide. Hopefully you'll be able to catch a few of her shows before we sail.

Samantha Brown's Passport to Travel Guide links are:
Barcelona, Nice, Florence, Rome, Naples, Athens,Istanbul, Mykonos, Venice

Photo provided by Samantha Brown - Travel Channel Website

Read All About It!

Astounding, intrigue, brilliance, superb, dramatic, informative, descriptive… whatever your choice in words one cannot create a more relaxing world than that of a best-selling novel, an informative resource book or a comprehensive short story collection to curl up with.

I recently visited some book websites such as Barnes & Nobles, Amazon and Borders. There is this incredible black hole resource that seems to continue forever. As I surf the web I found novels, travel books, reference guides and even maps just to mention a few. Definitely worth a peek!

As we prepare for our cruise, you will see that half the journey is the anticipation of the trip. To help you get into the mood check out some of the books that are available at your local bookstore or simply go on line as I have. I've listed a few of my findings below. You might want to check the reviews at one of the book websites to see if this is of interest to you:

• "My Several Journeys-Book Two" by Elizabeth Mulford
• "Passion on the Vine: A Memoir of Food, Wine, and Family in the Heart of Italy by Sergio Esposito
• "Istanbul: Memories and the City" by Orhan Pamuk
• "A Year in Provence" by Peter Mayle
• "A Year in the World" by Frances Mayes
• "Under the Tuscan Sun" by Frances Mayes
• "The Conde Nast Traveler Book of Unforgettable Journeys: Great Writers on Great Places by

Various Authors
• "Greece, A Love Story: Women Write about the Greek Experience by Camille Cusumano
• "Italy, A Love Story: Women Write About the Italian Experience by Camille Cusumano
• "France, A Love Story: Women Write About the French Experience by Camille Cusumano
• "The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World" by EricWeiner
• "Make the Most of Your Time on Earth" by Rough Guides
• "Point It- Traveller's laguange kit." (Picture Disctionary)by Graf Editions
• "How to Shit Around the World- the art of staying clean & healthy while traveling" by Dr. Jane Wilson-Howarth
• "The Smart Traveler's Passport: 399 Tips from Seasoned Travelers" by Erik Torkells
• "Eyewitness Travel Guide: Barcelona & Catalonia" by DK Publishing
• "Eyewitness Travel Guide: Rome " by DK Publishing
• DK Eyewitness Travel "Top 10 Provence & the Cote D'Azur"
• DK Eyewitness Travel "Cruise Guide To Europe & the Mediterranean"
• "Let's Go Western Europe on a Budget 2008" Ines Pacheco, Editor
• "Zagat Europe's Top Restaurants 2008"
• "Cruise Vacations for Dummies"
• "Travel Planning Online for Dummies"
• "The Essential Little Cruise Book" by Jim West
• "1,000 Places To See Before You Die" by Patricia Schultz
• Rick Steve's "Europe Through the Back Door 2008"
• Rick Steve's "Italy 2008"
• Rick Steve's "France 2008"
• The Marling Menu-master for Italy" by William & Claire Marling
• Rick Steve's "French, Itaian & German Phrase Book"
• "Italian in 10 minutes a day" Bilingual Books Inc
• "French in 10 Minutes a day" Bilingual Books Inc
• DK Witness "15 Mintues Italian"
• DK Witness "15 minutes French"
• Fodor's "Florence's 25 Best"
• Frommer's "Venice Day by Day"
• Lonely Planet "Best of Athens"

Now it's your turn to share...know a good book? Write a comment and let us know...

Study Group ... Wanna Join?

Being retired and all, one would think how is it that you would not have enough time to research and prepare for this upcoming cruise? Well, even retirees have busy and full lives these days, there just doesn’t seem to be enough time to respond to email or check out the details of your a #%*&@ cruise blog and …you now want me to do what?

At our Meet & Greet Brunch, I heard over and over with our cruisers that they needed to get off their touche and start researching the excursions and ports. But who’s got time, well I found out a couple of things that simply warmed my heart and made me smile. Yes, there she goes that enthusiasm and optimism again and we have a solution for you.

Pat Fierro (also known as Tricia by Diana) shared a fantastic idea after our Meet & Greet Brunch on June 1st, a “Study Group”! What a fantastic idea! Okay folks we're not talking serious intellectual, educational, studious type study groups here, but an informative and perhaps even a more social recreation environment with fun, laughter and shared business to accomplish a common goal. Tricia came up with the perfect plan…a study group which she extended to her friends and associates (Marlene, Sheila, Karen V, Pamela, Linda M, Pat C, Jo Mary, Stella, Cindy) many living or working near her. The format she designed for the group beyond the invitation was to split up the countries/ports and research the following:

· History of area
· Key sights
· Local specialties (crafts, produce, dishes, drinks etc)
· Markets
· Best Shopping areas
· Analysis of the Off Shore Excursions
· Tips and additional information

This idea was so good, I had to grab the concept and began to contact individuals about it and this is what I found out:

· Kay Tindel who is my co-editor has been coordinating with her girlfriends Carole, Lesley & Judy through their own personal cruise blog and a recent get together the weekend of our brunch.

· Jan Noce and Patty Flanagan created a group with other cruiser Diane M, Jim, Perry, Ross, Pam, Russell and still open for more. This group I believe has the social-recreation element in focus, Jim began with creating the group’s name: “21st Century Northern Mediterranean Port Study Group with an Emphasis on the Impact of Temporary North American Migration Patterns While Observing Really Old Stuff While under the Influence of Fermented, Distilled, Brewed and Aged Beverages”. Personally after I caught my breath from laughing, I simply thought, they have their cruise mission statement, what do you think?

· Kelly Feldman shared that her gal pals Wendy, Kim and Diane W got together for dinner and began their journey and stated to share their finding about the ports and countries. But they needed to meet again.

· Carole Ghertner (and I’m sure her husband Elliott) initiated a study chapter for the LA/Burbank and Glendale area. Her invitation list included fellow cruisers Wendy & Norm, Sally & Dennis, Linda & Duane, Russell, Randy & Karen A.

This may perhaps be just the beginning, as I have not touched bases with all of our cruisers. I can only imagine the unknown number of cabin mates and their cruisers spending time at Barnes & Nobles/Amazon.com, on the internet or watching the travel channel. I know that Roger and I will be heading to Northern California this summer so we hope to “touch bases” with our Nor Cal cruisers and have made plans to meet up with an informal "Study Group" at Sonoma County Fair where Diana and her classmates Laura, Sean, Vicki and Yvonne plus their significant other will be celebrating their 35th High School Class reunion. What do we do to simply have a get together.... Hmmm??? If I missed anyone else, send us a comment reply and update us.

Photo provided by Flickr Digital Alan

MEET & GREET BRUNCH continues...

Oh what a day it was ….perfect weather and a Mediterranean culinary brunch with 52 fun loving people. Some faces were new and yet others were familiar from a previous gathering or trip. But everyone was smiling and the energy of enthusiasm and friendliness filled the glass window, open aired patio at Lucca Café in Irvine on June 1st. Besides the sparkling champagne flute and warm smooth cappuccino, the meet and mingle was buzzing as individuals shared stories of their exploration of the 6 countries and 10 ports that this Mediterranean cruise will have in store for us all.

As guests arrived and got settled at their white linen tables, Roger helped with introductions and welcomed everyone on behalf of himself and his first mate partner, Diana. Following were recognitions and thank yous for some key support crew who helped along the way in assisting Diana. Since the brunch was buffet style, more conversations and mingling occurred as the time progressed.

Our Master of Ceremonies Roger, introduced our Travel agent Alex Kuncio for the interactive FAQ portion of our upcoming cruise.( Be sure you check out the blog for the details of the specific questions and answers as they are now posted). Next Roger continued with a quick review of the handouts, the goodie bags that were given out and a door prize raffle concluded the event. Oh what a wonderful and fun time to kick off our cruise.

In attendance were: Alex Kuncio, Karen, Mike and Robin Allison, Marlene Beatty, Sheila Goodbrand, Wendy Brown, Kim Eckes, Marty Bryant, Marsha Burgess, Michele Lovenduski, Russell Cobb, Pat ‘Tricia’ Fierro, Linda Mc Cue, Elliott & Carole Ghertner, Stella Hacker, Judy Thatcher, Sean Hagerty & Andrea Babby, Sally Hooper, Norm & Wendy Kilgore, April Layman, Jim Mies, Michael & Jo Mary Murphy, Jan Noce, Patty Flanagan, Scott & Liddy Paulsen, Carol Quackenbush, Kay Tindel, Judy Rez, Lesley Stearns, Pamela Shaffer, Perry ‘Thor ‘ Soderberg, Gary & Cindy Street, Dell & Laura Tredinnick, John & Lois Tucker, , Dawna Finley, Buzz and Karen Vaughn and a few special guests Garth Nelson, Rose Anderson, Rose Pere, (Ross Moodie get better!) and of course your host Diana and Roger!

Oh on a final note…there were many photos taken from the brunch and the attempt to place a slideshow on the blog was made. But, I believe there was more photos than our cruise blog could manage. So check your Inbox…you’ll get invited to view it with another option. Special thanks to Norm Kilgore, Sean Hagerty, Karen Vaughn and Jan Noce for their photo contributions.

Los Angeles Times - ROME ...by Jim

In preparation of Rome here are a couple of articles that the Los Angeles Times newspaper printed:

10 Books & Movies to Prep for a trip to Rome
By Susan Spano, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

1. "The Agony and the Ecstasy" (1961, by Irving Stone, and turned into a 1965 film starring Charlton Heston)
2. "The Families Who Made Rome" (2005, by Anthony Majanlahti)
3. "Gladiator"(2000, directed by Ridley Scott)
4. "I, Claudius" (1934, by Robert Graves)
5. "La Dolce Vita" (1960, directed by Federico Fellini)
6. "Memoirs of Hadrian" (1951, by Marguerite Yourcenar)
7. "Quo Vadis?"(1896, by Henryk Sienkiewicz)
8. "Roman Holiday" (1953, directed by William Wyler
9. "Rome, Open City" (1945, directed by Roberto Rossellini)
10. "That Awful Mess on the Via Merulana"(1957, written by Carlo Emilio Gadda, translated from Italian by William Weaver)

Other interesting articles regarding Rome that might help you in your journey are:

• Italy: At home in Rome

Times staffer Susan Spano finds that, minor hassles and high costs aside, Italy's capital city is a fascinating place to settle down.

• Budget Travel in Rome, By Susan Spano, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
How to see the city without spending too much money.

• Exploring Rome's famous seven hills
Ancient and modern-day attractions beckon to the curious.
By Susan Spano, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of Flickr jereseykcc