Day 13 – Venice, Italy

Our alarm went off promptly at 5:30 AM and by 6:30 we were eating our last breakfast on the Splendour of the Seas. Because we carried our own luggage (backpacks), we were permitted to leave with the Express group. A large tour bus took us on a short ride to the bus stop where we got off ready to enter Venice. We had been to this beautiful city before (in 2004) and were pretty sure we could find our way around town. Holly had carefully written out specific instructions about how to get to our B&B by taking an Alilaguana (water bus), however, Ross thought we could save some money and walk. Do you all see where this story is going? Two hour, yes, two hours later we arrived at the green wooden door leading to the courtyard of our B&B at 3749 Ponte Chiodo. A nice Italian man welcomed us in, offered us something to drink, took off our backpacks, and immediately made us feel at home! He gave us a much needed map, some suggestions for eateries, answered some questions, and escorted us up a narrow marble staircase to our quaint room. He seemed a little stunned that that we had walked all the way we did. Normally the journey from the ship would only take about 20 minutes. Our window opens up to the courtyard and is just charming. After freshening up and connecting with the kids back home, we set off to explore the wonders of Venice.

It wasn’t long before we began to get really hungry. Instead of going to a café, we decided it would be fun to go to the grocery store. It really was fun shopping with the locals and seeing all the interesting things they have to offer. I imagine that a typical European would feel completely overwhelmed going to something like Dierbergs here in the States. There are just so many choices, even when it comes to selecting something simple, like a can of peaches. So, what did we select after all the delicious food we enjoyed on the cruise – a container of pineapple juice and a bag of Bastoncini cookies. We were so hungry that as soon as we got out on the street, we tore open the bag and began eating as we walked. We continued eating our cookies on the steps of an old monument when some pigeons approached us. I crumbled one of the cookies , gave it to them, and immediately, fellow pigeons came from out of the woodwork! I loved it! However, Ross would have none of that. He insisted that I stop feeding them as it made the birds selfish and mean toward each other. I countered that I hadn’t recalled seeing a “Don’t Feed the Pigeons” sign, and besides, this wasn’t the zoo! Well, a little girl started shooing the birds away when Ross said, “See, Lin, they don’t like pigeons around here.” Well, anyway, I’m sure those poor birds were conversing amongst themselves about the mean American pigeon hater. It was definitely time for a much needed nap.

We made dinner reservations at Al Timons for 7:30PM. When we arrived we could tell that it was definitely  very popular with the local crowd. People of all ages, from grandparents to small children, met and seemed to know each other. What a fantastic sense of community they enjoy! Why even their dogs, which are always welcome in restaurants here, seemed to be friends. The waiter kindly told us the daily specials and we decided on a steak for two. When he brought us our meal, we couldn’t believe our eyes! On a circular wooden platter, the size of a large pizza pan, sat a beautiful steak at least an inch thick, surrounded by roasted onions, roasted red and yellow peppers, roasted portabella mushrooms and cucumbers, and last but not least, the best roasted and seasoned potato slices we’ve ever had. We scarfed down the entire meal. The waiter seemed very pleased with our ability to consume his food. As we stepped outside, we heard thunder in the distance and a light rain began to fall. No more walking tonight!  We scurried back to our little place behind the green wooden door.

View from 3rd floor window overlooking B&B entrance

Travel is by boat - water taxis (very expensive) notice the fine wood grain

Gondolier with passengers

Even ambulance is by boat

Day 12 – Split, Croatia

Located on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, Split is a gateway for exploring the coast and many islands of not only Croatia, but also Italy and Greece. We were told that this region is one of the sunniest places in Europe and today that sure proved to be true. It was truly a picture perfect day!

We ate breakfast and after a rather lengthy wait (2 hrs), we boarded our tender for Split. While we were waiting for our ride we met two sweet ladies from New Brunswick, Canada. They were thrilled that we enjoyed “Anne of Green Gables” so much! The scenery of P.E.I., Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick is exactly what we see in the movie. Winters are hard there, of course. Nevertheless, they don’t hunker down and wait for warmer days. Everyone either plays hockey, skis, or sleds – in other words, they have ways of enjoying the cold, cold winter!

Once we arrived in Split we went to the main sight, The Roman Palace. It was built by Emperor Diocletian in the 4^th century. In 295 AD, The Roman Emperor liked this area so much that he ordered a residence be built for his retirement. It took nearly 10 years to complete. He died there in 313 AD. Afterwards, Roman rulers continued to use his palace as a retreat. Split has experienced a rather complicated history, being under the control of the Venetians, Austrians, French – and eventually became a part of Yugoslavia in 1918. During WWII, The Italians were here until the city was liberated in 1944, and the country of Croatia was finally formed.

The Roman Palace is a maze of cobblestone streets, art galleries, cafes, small shops, and Gothic churches. We visited the Cathedral of St. Duje. Inside we saw the remains of the mausoleum of Diocletian. All over, there are beautiful frescoes, very tall pulpits, and ornate Romanesque carvings.

As we do everywhere – we walk and walk! Split, I believe, is the prettiest city we have seen so far. It is so very old, yet  so immaculately clean! No trash anywhere! The school children look and act much like American children –enjoying their friends and their cell phones. We wandered through the back streets and heard canaries sing their lovely songs from their cages. Old men gathered in small groups and talked and laughed on park benches, all seems safe and comfortable. Split is more mountainous than we had expected. I can see why some travelers we’ve met think that Croatia is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe!

Dinner tonight was extra special. We had started our packing before we headed down to eat – not looking forward to saying farewell to our new friends. Secretly, we all signed a card that Monica bought in town, wishing the newlyweds all the best. Then Connie, who sings in her church choir began to sing us all a song as a parting gift and as a birthday gift to Becky. In her lovely Irish brogue, she sang for all of us, right at our table, “Galloway Bay.” Can you picture the sweetness of this moment? She ended by singing “Whispering Words ”- a song sung in church many years ago. We’ll never forget it.

Inside Diocletian's Palace

Ross by bell tower and bishop statue

Linda by park flowers

Split city street



Day 11 – At Sea (to Split, Croatia)

We went to bed at around 1:30 AM and looking through our cabin window we saw the deep golden crescent moon hanging low in the horizon. Then, two bright lights, each with its own rhythm of glaring on and turning off, signaled that we passing lighthouses on the shores of Sicily. It was enchanting!

Sunday morning was glorious and sunny! After breakfast, we spent time in personal devotion and Bible study. It was a quiet day on the cruise ship.

Nevertheless, after lunch we watched a whole group of people from all over the world learn some dance moves by the swimming pool. How neat! There was a little old Asian couple, for example, doing the Y.M.C.A. and having the time of their lives! Music really is an international language.

In the afternoon, once again, we attended the class on the history, culture, and sights to see in our next port of call – this time it will be Split, Croatia. As always, he was informative and very enjoyable!

Tonight is dress night for dinner, so that’s what we’re preparing for now. The show will be a performance of the Rat Pack singers (Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and we think Dean Martin). No doubt it will be great!

The long hallway to our cabin (Linda is half way there)

Centrum location on the ship (wireless Internet available here for a price)

Day 10 - Valletta, Malta

This morning we docked in Valletta, Malta! Located in the middle of the Mediterranean, it’s only 52 miles south of Sicily.

The weather was perfect for just strolling around the busy Saturday markets. The buildings are all constructed of native limestone rock which is actually sand-colored. This is the island where Paul, along with a whole ship full of prisoners, were ship wrecked. You can read the miraculous account of the ship wreck found in Acts 27. Chapter 28 of Acts tells the account of Paul on the Island of Malta. It was here that Paul survived a deadly venomous viper snake bite and where he healed the father of Publius. With this healing, many others sought out Paul to be cured of their diseases. Paul notes the hospitality and generosity of the citizens of Malta.

Later, Valletta was built to protect Christian pilgrims en route to the Holy Land and played other very important roles in history. I’ll bet traveling into a foreign territory must have been pretty scary back then. That’s where the Knights of the Order of St. John came in. In 1530, the Spanish king gave the whole island to the Order. After a bloody battle with the Turks, the Knights fortified this city. In more recent history, during WWII the island was considered a key in the battle for the Mediterranean and was exposed to months of bombing raids and blockades, leaving many of the inhabitants homeless and without food. More history occurred here than I could possibly write about in this short space, but it truly is fascinating and something I would like to research further when we get home.

We quickly found a little city park and enjoyed looking at all the plants blooming. Some men were playing an enthusiastic game of soccer – a favorite sport all over Europe. Continuing on our stroll, which I might add is always a little brisk with Ross as the leader, we came to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. These were originally the private gardens of the Italian Knights. Also, we saw Fort St. Elmo, a fortification located on a peninsula which was a strategic stronghold for the Knights against the Turks in the 16^th century. Today, it is home to the Malta Police Academy.

The population is overwhelmingly Catholic. Shrines to Mary are everywhere and are enhanced with large sconce covered light bulbs and flowers in little vases. They are all preparing for Easter as signs are posted displaying the times of local passion plays and concerts. Bakeries and candy stores in ancient buildings display their delicious goods in the shop windows – little chicks, bunnies, brightly colored eggs, and pastel colored icing sweet cakes.

Right on the side of the street a circular structure resembling a closed in gazebo held the most lovely flowers, plants, and little animals. We saw the tiniest turtles ever, along with bunnies and parakeets. The turtles reminded of the kind you use to be able to win at carnivals, and then you could buy little, plastic, island homes for them to live in – and with their own private palm tree I might add. They’re outlawed now because of salmonella , but I know my brother and I really enjoyed ours in the good ol’ days!

Tonight’s show featured ballroom dancing. Should I repeat myself once again and say how great they were? Well, they were! Their costumes were especially beautiful!

But wait –there’s more! Tonight at midnight we’ll be enjoying a chocolate buffet. Who could ask for anything more?

Linda at Valletta park - notice the time on the clock

Round-about at the peak of Valletta

Busy main street of Valletta

Outside St. John's Church

Day 9 – At Sea (toward Malta Island)

We are experiencing the calmest waters since we left Portugal. The temperatures are in the 60s and the winds are only about 11 mph. Looking out our window this morning we saw the coast of Algiers. Wow!

Ross was finally able to climb the rock wall today (2 times)! I didn’t get any pictures, but no doubt he’ll be doing it again. It was a delightfully relaxing morning. We were able to spend a great deal of time just reading (I’m enjoying John MacArthur’s new book, Slave. Ross is reading his commentary on Ephesians). Unfortunately, Ross was unable to make internet connections because the satellite was down, which is why yesterday’s update was late.

We attended another class, led by the same California professor, on the history of Malta and the things we’ll want to see and do once we arrive. He has such a marvelous way of explaining the long and complex history of a country. For example, he even tied in the significance of the movie, The Maltese Falcon, in his talk. We feel pretty prepared for our time in Valletta, Malta, tomorrow!

Salmon for dinner tonight! The food is just so good! We couldn’t possibly eat everything offered, but it’s been fun trying. Since we arrived on board we haven’t taken the elevator.  So, several times a day we’re hiking up about 6 flights of stairs several times a day – that accounts for some burned calories doesn’t it?

Below is a picture of our wonderful dinner party. They are, from left to right: P.J. and Connie (west coast of Ireland), Monica and John (east coast of Ireland), Becky and Chris (newlyweds from Toledo), us, and Mary and Joe (west coast of Ireland).

The show tonight featured a young woman from England. What a voice! She received a well deserved standing ovation. It’s kind of funny, but she was supposed to join the ship in Gibraltar and she began by telling us that she was there and we weren’t (remember that we couldn’t dock because of the sea conditions). That meant that she had to rent a car and drive all the way to Cartagena, driving from the opposite side of the car on the opposite side of the road (from what she was used to in the UK )using a Spanish GPS. What a trooper!

Our dinner table

42nd Street Theater before the show

Day 8 – Cartagena, Spain

Cartagena is a historic port city on the southeast Mediterranean coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Ships of the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Moors, Barbary Coast pirates, the Spanish Armada, France and Britain all docked right here! It’s been the Mediterranean home of the Spanish navy since the 1500s. I guess calling Cartagena historic is an understatement!

The first thing we saw after leaving the pier was this amazing sea wall. It was built in the 1700s at the direction of King Carlos III. Then we came across a small park with some beautiful trees which had enormous branches perfectly made to support a tree house. Next was a Spanish classic,

The Plaza de Toros (The Bull Ring). Constructed in the 1850s, it actually sits on top of a Roman gladiator arena. We could see the entrance through which they entered. Although bull fights and gladiators are not my thing at all, we both appreciated the site.

Climbing up a long stone path, we found ourselves at Torres Park, which overlooks the city and harbor.

Flowers were in bloom! As we descended the path what should we see but two gorgeous peacocks all posed and ready for us to take their picture! The funny call they make is positive evidence that God, indeed, does have a great sense of humor.

A major archaeological site in the city is the Roman Theater. It was buried for nearly 2,000 years until it was finally discovered in 1987. It held Billy Graham size crowds – 6,000 people.

We strolled with the locals through the quaint and busy Plaza del Ayuntamiento and loved the cozy shops and cafes lining the street. Here, you are welcomed to feast on squid or octopus sandwiches! Boats, all pure white with bright blue accents, park like school buses in the harbor as sea gulls sing and soar overhead in the ocean breeze.

When we got back to the ship, Ross immediately changed into his running clothes and off we went to the track on the top deck. Most of the people were still on shore, so he didn’t have to worry about running over any little old ladies. Wouldn’t that have made a terrible tale to tell?

Dinner was fantastic! P.J. told us all about the I.R.A. and how they were really just a mob of terrorists. He is horrified by so much of Ireland’s recent history but is very proud to be Irish! At 70 years old, he appears to be as fit as a fiddle and glowing with happiness.

Craig Halladay played his crystal studded violin tonight at the evening show and really wowed the crowd! He was truly wonderful and played along with an orchestra that complimented his music beautifully. Tonight was a real treat!

Unique trees in Cartegena park

City overlook

Roman Theater

Ross getting exercise



Day 7 – Gibraltar – well, almost!

What a wild ride the ship had last night! Ross and I were watching the very large swells from our window and could feel the shudder from the pounding of the waves. W e loved the experience! With the ship being as long as it is, it spans the waves mostly, but consider the little vessels of the early explorers and Pilgrims riding up and down the waves!

So, we woke up to the Rock of Gibraltar! It was enchanting to see in the early morning mist. Just from our window alone we could count 14 ships - we were the only cruise ship. At breakfast the captain announced over the PA system that no one would be allowed to disembark today because of the sea conditions. No one moaned or complained. All announcements are given in English, German, French, and Portuguese – everyone seemed to understand the situation. Nevertheless, we enjoyed a peaceful time in the harbor most of the day soaking up the rays, reading, listening to some fantastic musicians, and catching up on some rest. I guess we’ll have to wait for another time to see the famous Barbary monkeys and the Rock of Gibraltar. Maybe it’s just as well that we didn’t. They are apparently quite aggressive and have been known to steal purses, wallets, anything shiny and even pluck an eyeball (Ross added) – the little varmints. Winston Churchill declared long ago that as long as the Barbary monkeys remained in Gibraltar, the British would remain in Gibraltar. Well, they are still here, and so are the British – who feed them!

Tonight for dinner Ross and I both had roasted lamb with mint jelly! Yum!!! Every night, John, the little Irish man, gives me a history lesson from his county of Tipperary. Tonight he revealed President Obama’s Irish descent and how he plans on visiting his ancestral home when he visits later on this month. I commented that he certainly didn’t look like an Irish man. Of course, I don’t think I look very Irish either. Becky and Chris showed us some of their wedding pictures! They were married at the Toledo Zoo and did some wonderfully creative things like having merry –go-round rides for the reception and the train providing transportation to and from the wedding site. Dinner always seems to end too soon for all of us!

The show tonight was a tribute to the movies. The high energy singing and dancing were just marvelous! This entertainment and the music from the different venues around the ship always complete these delightful days at sea.

Backside of Rock of Gibraltar

(We were at dinner when we rounded the point to the other side)