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2024 Viking World Journey
  • Di and My's World Journey

2024 Viking World Journey

A 124-day adventure by Di and My's World Journey Read more
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  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
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    04.07.2024 Indian Ocean

    April 7, 2024, Indian Ocean ⋅ 🌬 70 °F

    We are at sea heading south along the eastern coast of S. Africa.
    It is cloudy, windy and rough seas. After breakfast, Myron attended a morning lecture with Guest Lecture with Dr. Tony Waltham:
    "Diamonds of South Africa."
    Explore why South Africa is among the world's major sources of diamonds, and understand how volcanoes have played an important role.
    Diana visited with Mara, head of Guest Relations to weigh our options if we chose to make any changes. No decisions yet.
    We decided to spend some time on the comfy loungers by the main pool.
    The waves are high and rough.
    The afternoon was spent trying to pack up what we don’t need. Myron had choir practice today.
    We attended the Church service tonight in Torshaven. It was very nice and well attended.
    We had dinner in the Restaurant tonight.
    The molten lava cake was very good.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    1Cape buffaloGreat KuduBlue wilderbeest

    04.08.2024 Port Elizabeth, S Africa

    April 8, 2024 in South Africa ⋅ ☁️ 63 °F

    It has been a few rough and rocky sea days but we have ported in Port Elizabeth. We have an all day game drive today to Kariega Private Game Reserve.
    Set out in search of African wildlife during an open-top, 4x4 safari experience. Drive to the Kariega Private Game Reserve, home to an abundance of game and birdlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, hippos, giraffes, zebras and more. Upon arrival at the lodge, you will be warmly welcomed with refreshments before boarding your fully equipped 4x4 safari vehicle. The open-air setting allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature as your experienced ranger navigates the wilderness in search of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for a sleeping lion or perhaps a dazzle of zebras grazing on the land, and make sure you have your camera at the ready to capture the moment.
    We had a great day seeing hippos and rhinos and cape buffalo. Along with a couple of lions and lots of zebras and impalas. Giraffes put on a great show.
    It started off rainy but the sky’s cleared for part of the day.
    What an amazing experience. Did we see the big 5? No. No leopards or elephants. Did it satisfy our desire for a safari? Yes it did. A great day.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    04.09.2024 Indian Ocean Sea Day

    April 9, 2024, Indian Ocean ⋅ 🌙 79 °F

    After leaving Port Elizabeth last night we continued our journey south off the coast of Africa. We had some extreme wind around 5:00 this morning. Per Captain Richard it was 80 mph and he said thankfully it didn’t last long. It will remain windy today with rough seas.
    Following breakfast, we met with guest services to adjust some excursions.
    At 10:00 Diana attended a macramé class. Wow! That’s a step back into the 70’s where everyone had macraméd plant hangers.
    Myron attended the 11:00 am lecture with Guest Lecture with Dr. Sheila K. Hoffman: “South Africa and the Global Origins of Art."
    Delve into prehistory to find the oldest works of art ever created.
    Diana did a little packing and organizing.
    Following lunch Diana found a comfy lounger watching the world go by. Myron had choir practice at 2:00.
    We played Pinochle where Myron continues to dominate. (Diana can’t buy a hand at this point.)
    We met up with fellow cruisers for cocktails and headed for dinner.
    Dessert was cheesecake for Diana and fresh strawberries with cantaloupe ice cream for Myron.
    We called it an early night and watch some of the lectures we missed while we were in India.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    2Table mountain covered with the table cloth.

    04.10.2024 Cape Town, S. Africa

    Apr 10–11, 2024 in South Africa ⋅ ⛅ 57 °F

    Welcome to Cape Town, South Africa. Cooler weather today with a high of 68. Windy and sunny.
    We had a Viking included excursion to Table Mountain: a celebrated Cape Town landmark-and admire its extraordinary views. Start your tour of the iconic mountain at Kloof Nek's lower cableway station, where you will ride the Rotair cable car up the mountainside. Enjoy the panoramic views courtesy of its 360° rotating floor.
    Take in the spectacular scenery as you ascend 2,300 feet from the Valley Station to the Mountain Station. On the summit, gaze at Devil's Peak on the left, Lion's Head on the right and Signal Hill in the foreground, with Cape Town and its suburbs lying in between. Stand on top of the approximately 500-million-year-old rocky formation and reflect on nature's enduring power and majesty as you take in your surroundings.
    Due to weather the Table was “covered” by the tablecloth (clouds) so we could not see anything from the top. We did get a few pictures from Signal Hill. We did a brief drive through the city.
    Upon returning to the the ship we hopped on the shuttle and went to Victoria and Alfred’s Wharf. We had lunch at Quay 40 along with a few beers in the sunshine. Jean, there is a Zara at this fantastic mall. I bought nothing but a piece of luggage we will need.
    We were back on the ship and at 6:30 attended a Guest Lecture with Mr. Russell Lee: "The Legend of the Flying Dutchman."
    Set sail with the mythical ghost ship that is doomed to roam the seven seas for all eternity.
    This was followed by a late dinner in the Restaurant.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Table Mountain

    04.11.2024 Cape Town, S. Africa

    April 11, 2024 in South Africa ⋅ ☀️ 72 °F

    I know I know we were suppose to be at sea today but the wind gods said no. We remain in port at Cape Town. We have winds of 46 mph which is a crosswind so we are unable to leave the harbor. Even the tugs would not be able to stop us from drifting.
    The sad part is Viking asked for clearance so we could go back through immigration today and get off the ship. The S. African government said no.
    The good news is it is sunny and 73 degrees and… Table Mountain has no cloud cover.
    A quiet day on board. Diana need a fine day so this worked in her favor. Myron attended the 9:30 lecture with Guest Lecture with Mr. Russell Lee: "Tulip Mania: The Bulb That Sprouted the First Stock Market Bubble."
    Learn how tulips created an economic bubble in the 1600s and what led to its eventual collapse.
    At 2:30 he attended the Guest Lecture with Dr. Tony Waltham:
    "Alluvial Diamonds of Namibia and More."
    Learn how alluvial diamonds transformed the economy of Namibia and had different impacts on other countries.
    Myron went to listen to our assistant cruise director perform solo tonight and Diana remained in the cabin. As this goes to print, remain in Cape Town with high winds.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    04.12.2024 S. Atlantic Ocean

    April 12, 2024, South Atlantic Ocean ⋅ 🌬 63 °F

    We left Cape Town around midnight last night and are back at sea.
    We are sailing up the Western coast of Africa on our way to Walvis Bay.
    After breakfast we both attended the 9:30 lecture with Guest Lecturer Dr. Tony Waltham: "Into the Namib Desert."
    Enjoy the wonderful terrains that Namibia has to offer, from the Namib Desert to its dramatic mountains and coastlines.
    He is so funny and I don’t know if he takes a breath.
    At 11:00 we were again dazzled by the storytelling of Guest Lecture with Mr. Russell Lee: “California Sound - The Story of the Beach Boys."
    Harmonize with three brothers who rode the surfing craze to create a legendary rock band.
    After lunch Myron went to the Spa and Diana wanted to get her photo book up to date.
    We had dinner at Manfredi’s with Tom, Tammy and Jennifer.
    We wrapped up the evening in the Star Theater watching Viking Guest Entertainer Tony K Irving "Radio Waves"
    He took us on a journey of timeless classics to heart throbbing and toe tapping hits from the radio to mix tapes.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    04.13.2024 Walvis Bay, Namibia

    April 13, 2024 in Namibia ⋅ ☁️ 59 °F

    We were at sea this morning and docked in Walvis Bay at 3:00 pm. We have a very short stay here so they created a special event tour for all the passengers and even some crew. Here are the details:
    A Special Event in the Valley of the Moon, in the heart of the Namib Desert. Marvel at its sheer size and arid moon like topography of this desolate area which was on a big mountain range. Erosion from the past 2 million years has reduced it to the rolling low lying hills that they are today. We would like to invite you to come and join us in this magical otherworldly desert where you will be greeted by a marimba band and enjoy some snacks and drinks. Later you will also enjoy a performance by an African choir which will mesmerize you against the back drop of the sun setting on this extraordinary landscape. The Nambi Desert is the oldest desert in the world.
    But first we attend the 11:00 am Guest Lecture with Mr. Russell Lee: "Sand:
    The Story of Civilization... as Told by a Speck."
    Sift through the history of the natural resource critical to both ancient and modern civilizations.
    We went through immigration and loaded into a 4 WD vehicle. Ernest was our driver and he was full of facts.
    Flamingoes, Pelicans, Sand Dunes, Moon Rocks Landscapes, Mirimbas, Choir, Sunset, Food, Wine, Beer. An unforgettable experience.
    Fabulous!!!    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Wine steward introducing the two featured wines for the night.Caprese salad- appetizer.Dessert. Yum! Puff pastry, tahitian vanilla diplomat cream and chocolate.

    04.14.2024 S. Atlantic Ocean Day 1/7

    April 14, 2024 ⋅ ☁️ 81 °F

    We are back at sea on a 7 day stretch as we head north up the western coast of Africa. The seas are calm. There are seals frolicking along side but too quick for me to catch a picture.
    Myron attended the 9:30 am with Guest Lecture Dr. Tony Waltham:
    "Landscapes of Volcanoes."
    Learn how lava fields and cinder cones can make peaceful basaltic volcanoes into scenic sites.
    Diana attended a craft class at 10:00.
    We both attended the 11:00 am talk with Guest Lecture Stuart St. Paul: "Becoming the Queen Alien."
    Meet the "Wild Boy" inside film's most terrifying monster, who learned storytelling from movie industry icons.
    Myron attended wine tasting at 1:00 of South African wines and had Choir practice at 2.
    Diana lounged on the comfy loungers by the pool, watched the seals and worked on her craft project.
    Dinner tonight was in Manfredi’s private dining room with a group of friends for good food and a few laughs.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
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    04.15.2024 S. Atlantic Ocean Day 2/7

    April 15, 2024, Gulf of Guinea ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F

    It’s going to be a busy sea day. Following breakfast Myron went to the Spa and Diana went to craft class to finish her project. It is a 100% wool eyeglass case that I appliquéd and embroidered.
    Diana had a great a great afternoon in a comfy lounger by the pool watching the world go by.
    Myron and a choir rehearsal with the guys to learn the words to one of the songs they will be performing soon.
    At 5:30 we attended Viking Resident Historian Forum with Dr.
    Bryan Babcock: "The Art of Movement."
    Discuss how African music and dance have impacted the globe in Torshaven. Dinner is at the Captains table at 6:30 with a group of friends.
    We ended the evening in the Star Theater as Viking proudly presents Guest Entertainer Lloyd Hollett "The Comedy Wordsmith"
    Dubbed by Gyles Brandreth as a 'linguistic comedy genius, Lloyd will have you amazed and amused with his masterful Comedy Wordplay and Vocal Wizardry. Lloyd's original style of comedy and remarkable memory bank will guarantee to bring a smile to your face.
    He was very very good. Good jokes and can sing!    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    04.16.2024 S Atlantic Ocean Day 3/7

    April 16, 2024, South Atlantic Ocean ⋅ ☁️ 81 °F

    We are getting closer to the equator so the temps are warming up. It is a beautiful day.
    There were a few lectures we wanted to see.
    9:30 am: Guest Lecture with Mr. Russell Lee: "The Perplexing Puzzle of Navigation at Sea." Learn why 1700s ships couldn't tell where they were going, and how the problem was finally solved.
    11:00 am: Guest Lecture with Dr. Tony Waltham:
    "Atlantic Islands and a New Ocean."
    Travel the length of the southern Atlantic Ocean, where a glorious collection of volcanic islands were formed.
    Lunch on the Aquavit (back pool deck) since the weather is do nice. It was a little hot).
    Diana had craft class at 10 and Myron has Choir practice as well at 2:00.
    Cocktails with friends in the Living Room but dinner was just the two of us . We both had lasagna. No dessert pictures tonight because we didn’t have dessert.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Diana's new pin from felting class.0 Longitude and 0 LatitudeAveen with our group.

    04.17.2024 Null Island Sea Day 4/7

    April 17, 2024, South Atlantic Ocean ⋅ ⛅ 81 °F

    Today is the day we made it to Null Island. Never heard of it you say? Us either until a few days ago. Null Island is the location at zero degrees latitude and zero degrees longitude ( 0°N 0°E), where the prime meridian and the equator intersect. Today we cross from the South Atlantic to the North Atlantic Ocean. Remember way back in January where we went from being polywogs to shellbacks? Today, we become Emerald shellbacks. Cream of the crop they say.
    There are no lectures this morning as it is crew safety drill day. Every 3 weeks the crew performs a safety drill. They don their life vest and report to their muster stations. Sometimes it’s a fire drill, others it’s a man overboard etc.
    During the drill which varies in length from 1-1/12 hours there is no service available so the theatre is dark hence no lectures etc.
    Diana laid by the pool in the comfy loungers.
    She attended Gail’s felting class where we made a pin/magnet that marks Null island.
    We attended wine tasting today at 1:00 of Spanish wines.
    Myron had choir practice at 2:00.
    Tonight was a special event dinner of reef and beef on the pool deck. Lobster and burgers. We sat with Randy, Vicki, Brian, Jonathan, Ron and Ann.
    Always fun. Myron went to watch the comedian- magician. Diana went back to the cabin.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    04.18.2024 N. Atlantic Ocean 5/7

    April 18, 2024, North Atlantic Ocean ⋅ ☁️ 82 °F

    Hot and muggy weather again today. We are sailing parallel to the Ivory Coast of Africa.
    After breakfast we attended the 9:30 lecture with Guest Lecture Dr. Tony Waltham: “ Volcanoes that Collapse."
    See how the explosive varieties of andesitic volcanoes produce violent eruptions of pyroclastic flows.
    We followed this up with Guest Lecture with Mr. Russell Lee: "The Sweet Story of Rum."
    Toast the drink that began as industrial waste and ultimately drove the development of the New World.
    Tony and Russell have a friendly banter going on regarding Tony’s lectures being scientific and Russell’s being pure rubbish. It’s fun to listen to them poke fun at each other.
    At 2:30 we tried our hand at Travel Trivia with Resident Historian Dr.
    Bryan Babcock
    Challenge your mind and explore the globe. Test your knowledge of curious facts, global geography, and world history.
    We played with Dave, Cynthia, Andy and Jane. We tied with another team for for first place after three tie breaker questions. So fun!
    Dinner tonight was at the Chef’s table with Randy and Vicki. California Cuisine.
    Sweet potato chip, crab cake, Moscow mule granita, halibut and flan for dessert. All paired with lovely white wines and a port for dessert.
    We turned in early tonight.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Myron and Aveen plotting for Choir.

    04.19.2024 N. Atlantic Ocean Day 6/7

    April 19, 2024 in South Africa ⋅ 🌙 46 °F

    Sea day number 6 for us.
    We had a leisurely breakfast after which Myron attended the 9:30 Lecture with Viking Resident Historian Dr.
    Bryan Babcock: "The Impact of the Triangle Trade on Africa: Unraveling HistoricalThreads."
    Explore the stories and archeological remains that changed world trade on four continents.
    Diana attended craft class at 10:00. She made a pin cushion.
    Myron went to the spa for a few hours and had choir practice at 2:00. Their performance is in a few days. Diana decided to tackle the laundry room and did a load of laundry.
    Dinner tonight was in the Restaurant with Brian, Jonathan, Tom and Tammy. Good food and great company.
    We ended the day with Viking welcoming back Guest Entertainer Lloyd Hollett "The Comedy Wordsmith" The Comedy Wordsmith returns to the stage for a completely different show full of more wordplay and musical merriment.
    Remember to put your brains on charge for this one!
    He is really good.
    And our final stop really before we went to bed was to pop into the night club Torshaven to listen to Resident Vocalists Jinky, Ralph and the Viking Band, Essential Sounds, for stylish entertainment and sophisticated spirits in our romantic lounge. We danced and had a blast.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Marina Sands Hotel SingaporeAfrican Sagari in felt by GailA Tuk Tuk

    04.20.2024 N. Atlantic Ocean Day 7/7

    April 20, 2024, North Atlantic Ocean ⋅ ☁️ 79 °F

    Our final sea day of this 7 sea day stretch. Hot and humid again today. It is 85 degrees with a real feel of 92.
    After breakfast we attended
    Viking Resident Historian Iconic Lecture with Dr. Bryan Babcock: "History of West Africa."
    Discover the heritage of ancient empires, slavery and colonialism in contemporary West Africa.
    We followed that with going to the Winter Garden to attend the
    Make a Memento Challenge.
    Join us as we unveil exciting guest creations inspired by our travels on the Viking Neptune World Cruise. The creativity of some of our fellow guests is amazing. Myron and Viking Guest Choir performed “A Lion Sleeps Tonight”

    Our afternoon was busy as well. Diana attended the Puzzle Workshop with Mr. Russell Lee: "The Fun and Fascination of Word Labyrinths."
    Sharpen your wits on some fun and diabolical word puzzles. Diana has attended a few of these and they are really hard.
    Myron had choir practice at 2:00 pm.
    At 4:30 it was Guest Lecture Mr. Douglas Field: "Dakar and the Cap-Vert Peninsula." Uncover the panoply of West African culture in and around Senegal's capital city.
    On the photo of the map included with today’s blog post it shows our Viking Neptune ship in the dark blue heading to Dakar but what was interesting to Diana was the narrow country called The Gambia. Sound familiar? It’s where the author of “Roots” Alex Haley believes his ancestor Kunta Kinte was taken from the jungle and sold into slavery.
    We have spent the past few days learning some of the history of African slavery. There were 12 million people sold into slavery from Africa and surprisingly the number to the US was on the smaller side with 450,000 slaves brought to the US. Brazil had a huge appetite for slaves and was the last country to abolish slavery. Islam nations also had a large slave trade as well as India.
    Dinner tonight was in the Restaurant with Tony and Monica. Filet and wedge salads. Yum! Wonderful conversations where we covered topics such as cruises, slavery, cities we have visited etc. The sunset during dinner was photo worthy.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    De La Renaissance
    Catholic ChurchMyron at the market. Filithy!

    04.21.2024 Dakar, Senagal

    April 21, 2024 in Senegal ⋅ ⛅ 70 °F

    Dakar is the capital of Senegal, in West Africa. It’s an Atlantic port on the Cap-Vert peninsula. Its traditional Médina quarter is home to the Grande Mosquée, marked by a towering minaret. The Musée Théodore Monod displays cultural artifacts including clothing, drums, carvings and tools. The city’s vibrant nightlife is inspired by the local mbalax music. Dakar metropolitan area was estimated at 3.9 million in 2023.
    Today we did the Viking included tour: Explore the colonial history of Dakar. Travel comfortably by motor coach past some of the city's most important sights, monuments and colonial buildings. See the impressive City Hall, featuring French colonial architecture in a Victorian structure. Surrounded by beautiful green gardens, it offers views over Dakar's bay and sports the elegant facade of the 1885 train station, the first built in West Africa. Continue past the Presidential Palace, the residence of the Senegalese head of state and one of the country's great architectural icons. Follow the Corniche, Dakar's ocean road, cut into the cliff around Cape Manuel. Admire the Monument of the African Renaissance, which was unveiled in 2010 to commemorate Senegal's 50 years of independence from France. The bronze statue towers against the skyline at 164 feet high-taller than the Statue of Liberty. After, browse the items on display at a local craft village before returning to your ship.
    It was a nice day and we took in the city sites.
    The dirt, the grime, the rubble really defines these cities with poor sanitation due to lack of water and infrastructure.
    After returning to the ship and having a late lunch in World Cafe, Myron went to the pool and Diana and Vicki visited the craft market set up by the ship. It had many wares of handmade items.
    We attended church at 6:00 and then grabbed a quick bite.
    The highlight of the evening was Myron and the Viking Guest Choir getting to perform a few songs from the musical South Pacific. The Viking singers along with Aveen and Michael presented a show of No Business Like Show Business.
    A great performance. We ended the evening with Bill and Heidi at the living room bar.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Comfy lounger day.Thar she blows!

    04.22.2024 N. Atlantic Ocean Day 1/2

    April 22, 2024, North Atlantic Ocean ⋅ 🌬 68 °F

    We are back a sea for a couple of days heading to the Canary Islands.
    Weather is cooler and drier. Whales were spotted off the starboard this morning.
    Our clocks went ahead today and we are only 6 hours ahead of CDT. We were late for breakfast so we had a bite in the World Cafe. Myron went to the 9:30 with Guest Lecture Mr. Russell Lee: "A Study in Scarlet—The Story of the Color Red." Celebrate the hue that was discovered by Aztecs, stolen by conquistadors and coveted by Europeans.
    Diana attended the 10:00 craft class and made a 3D card. Turned out kinda cool.
    There were whales off the starboard side today. Diana caught a picture of one spouting but they never breached the water.
    We both spent the afternoon in comfy loungers.
    We went to Harley and Priscilla’s suite for happy hour at 4. (They upgraded to an Explorer Suite a few days ago). It was very nice.
    We had dinner in the restaurant. Comfort food for Diana and clam chowder with lamb shank for Myron.
    Myron is attended the 9:00 show and Diana is tired so returned to the cabin.
    A beautiful sunset from our balcony.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    04.23.2024 N. Atlantic Ocean Sea Day 2/2

    April 23, 2024, North Atlantic Ocean ⋅ ☁️ 70 °F

    One more sea day before we make landfall. Diana went to craft class at 10:00. At 10:30 Myron attended the Lecture with Viking Resident Historian Dr. Bryan Babcock: "Africa Rising: How Geography and Weather Patterns Have Shaped a Continent."
    Explore how geography, weather and technology impact global development on this continent.
    We both found comfy loungers and spent a few hours watching the sea.
    Myron had choir practice at 2.
    We attended the port talk for Agadir, Morocco.
    This was followed by dinner and we retired to our cabin.
    Our only picture of the day is in the Living room Bar before dinner.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    1Love Calla Lilys

    04.24.2024 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spa

    April 24, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 64 °F

    Welcome to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is a port city on the island of Tenerife, in Spain’s Canary Islands. Well-preserved buildings in its old town include the colonial Church of the Immaculate Conception. The 1700s Palacio de Carta has baroque and neoclassical features. In the Old Civil Hospital, the Museum of Nature and Man has interactive displays on the islands. The city’s squares include the central Plaza de España.
    It is the second largest city in the Canary Islands and the main city on the island of Tenerife, with nearly half of the island's population living in or around it.
    We had an included tour of Impressions of Tenerife but not until Noon. After breakfast we headed into the Old Town to have a look around. We stopped by the Immaculate Conception Catholic Chirch but mass was in progress so we we were not allowed in. The street art and sculptures were amazing. What a beautiful, clean city. Friendly people.
    We returned to the ship to take our excursion where went to the other side of the island to see Puerto Cruz vs Santa Cruz. Beautiful. We stopped at La Orotava to take in the views. We ventured on to the beautiful botanical gardens. After spending some time there we headed to the seaside are of Puerto Cruz. We had lunch sea side at Vita. We shared a typical Spanish dish of potatoes and ham along with bread and tomato jam. Along with a few local beers. Ok, Myron had two and Diana had one but neither of us finished them.
    Back to the ship and we set sail around 5:30 pm.
    We had prime rib at the Restaurant tonight and followed that by the 9:00 performance in the Star Theater.
    Viking proudly presents Guest Entertainer Card Ninja
    WARNING: This show contains Ninjas, not magic. A comedy variety show like no other where playing cards are used as weapons.
    Expect risky and deadly fun.
    A wonderful day.    Read more

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    04.25.2024 An Unexpected Sea Day

    April 25, 2024 in Morocco ⋅ 🌬 75 °F

    We spend most our day at sea. As Captain Richard says the seas are choppy with winds up to 50 kts.
    We were to arrive in Agadir at 4:30 but again due to weather we are just sailing in circles waiting for the winds to calm down.
    Myron was up early and attended the Anzac Service at 5:30 am which is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that broadly commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders "who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations" and "the contribution and suffering of all those who have served".
    Our friend Tom who is a retired Col with the US Army who served in Australia and New Zealand and was asked to be the featured speaker. Myron said it was a very nice service..
    Diana had craft class at 10:00 and Myron had choir practice at 1:00.
    Since we didn’t make port we had a gathering with the folks we were doing an overland to Marrakech at the Explorer’s Lounge. We went to dinner in the Restaurant and retired to our cabin to catch up on past lectures we had missed.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    04.26.2024 Marrakech, Morocco

    April 26, 2024 in Morocco ⋅ ☀️ 52 °F

    We arrived in Agadir, Morocco after midnight. We got up this morning, had breakfast and our group of 8 met our driver and headed for an overnight in
    Marrakech. We are traveling with Mark, Trisha, Don, Kully, David and Cynthia.
    Once we arrived in Marrakech we checked into our hotel and headed for a traditional Moroccan lunch. It was delicious. Chicken and beef kabobs, rice .
    Following lunch we walked to the Palace. And then went up the Souks which are the stalls of everything imaginable.
    Our final stop was the Mosque. We returned to the hotel and had drinks and decided to order pizza. It was a great day.
    A few pics of our day.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    1Rick's Cafe

    04.27.2024 Casablanca, Morocco

    April 27, 2024 in Morocco ⋅ 🌙 55 °F

    We had an early morning wake up call at 6:30 followed by breakfast. Today we left Marrakech after toured the gardens.
    The Gardens are celebrating their 100th anniversary.
    The Jardin Majorelle, which extends over 9,000 m, is one of the most enchanting and mysterious gardens in Morocco. Created over the course of forty years, it is enclosed by outer walls, and consists of a labyrinth of crisscrossing alleyways on different levels and boldly-coloured buildings that blend both Art Deco and Moorish influences. The French painter Jacques Majorelle conceived of this large and luxuriant garden as a sanctuary and botanical ‘laboratory’. In 1922, he began planting it with exotic botanical specimens from the far corners of the world.
    In 1980, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, who first arrived in Morocco in 1966, purchased the Jardin Majorelle to save it from destruction at the hands of hotel developers. The new owners decided to live in Jacques Majorelle’s villa, which they renamed the Villa Oasis.
    What an amazing place.
    It is a 3 plus hour drive back to Casablanca where we will rejoin the ship later today.
    Once we arrived in Casablanca we had lunch at Rick’s Cafe from “Casablanca”movie fame. “Play it again Sam!”
    Lunch was delicious. Diana had salmon in an orange sauce and Myron had lamb chops in garlic butter. We shared a molten lava cake for dessert.
    After lunch we went and toured the Hassan II Mosque. It is the 7th largest mosque in the world.
    Its large outdoor esplanade can accommodate some 80,000 people and the prayer hall another 25,000, and it has a spectacular retractable roof, underfloor heating, and 50 Murano glass chandeliers weighing some 1,200 kg each. In addition, the ablution hall has 41 fountains and 600 taps, while the hammam has a capacity for 1,400 people. It is a true display of the talent of Moroccan craftsmen and, of course, a cultural symbol of the highest order.
    We enjoyed the tour of the mosque and the architecture.
    We got back on the ship about 5 and sailed at 8. We had dinner in the restaurant just the two of us.
    Myron went to the comedy show and Diana decided she was tired and wanted to just relax in the cabin.
    What a great couple of days we had. A beautiful sunset as we say goodnight.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Where you see the steeple is where we went for mass. St Andrew's was just down the hill a few blocks
    Cathedral of the HolyvSpirit.Holy SpiritSt Andrew CemeterySt Andrew's

    04.28.2024 Tangier, Morocco

    April 28, 2024 in Morocco ⋅ ⛅ 54 °F

    Today was our final African port. We were scheduled to go on the included tour with Viking but decided to just go tour on our own.
    Following breakfast we gathered our things and took the free shuttle Viking offered into town.
    Since it is Sunday it seems fitting that we will visit a few Churches. We climbed up to St. Andrew Church.
    The Church of Saint Andrew is an Anglican church in Tangier, Morocco. Consecrated in 1905, the church is within the Archdeaconry of Gibraltar. The building is constructed in a Moorish architectural style.
    It is only 10:00 am and services don’t start until 11:00. We walk through part of the cemetery that is located in the church yard. Always interesting to see the history of those buried.
    We move on to the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit. The Roman Catholic Cathedral of Tangier, whose full name is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Holy Spirit, also known as the Spanish Cathedral, is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Tangier, Morocco.
    Mass begins at 11:00 so we thought we would stay but possibly duck out if it was in French and not English. We listened to the children sing and the priest asked us all to move into the first few pews so we decided to leave. It is a beautiful Church.
    We wandered through a few Souks and then returned to the ship in time for lunch around 12:30. It was a nice morning.
    We found a comfy lounger by the pool and just relaxed.
    We attended Church in Torshaven at 6.
    We watched sail away from the Explorers Lounge and joined Vicki and Randy.
    Myron went to the show and Diana returned to our cabin.
    A beautiful sunset.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    Cathedral
    CathedralPlaza EspanaPlaza EspanaTorres de OroFountaine de Tournycapilla de Santa María de Jesús2In the gardens.1Still holding hands 113/123

    04.29.2024 Seville, Spain

    April 29, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 55 °F

    Today we are docked in Cadiz, Spain but our optional tour with Viking is Seville On Our Own. Viking provided the 1.5 hour bus ride there and back but we were free to do our thing once we got there.
    Our time was short but we really wanted to see the Cathedral of Seville. (Christopher Columbus is buried there). The queues were very long so instead we hired a horse and buggy and saw the highlights such as Parliament, The Palace, Torres de Oro which was a prison tower in the Middle Ages.
    A drive through the park was very enjoyable.
    We had an opportunity to see Plaza Espana. Towards the end we did find a tiny Church to visit; Capilla de Santa María de Jesús. It was founded 1505.
    This is another city we would return to. Maybe when we come back to Santa Cruz. We know we didn’t do the city justice but at least we got a glimpse.
    We sure had fun.
    Tonight we had reservations at Manfredi’s, just the two of us. Fettuccine veal in a red sauce for Diana and Red Snapper for Myron.
    Dessert was the Carmel bites with salted carmel ice cream with Carmel sauce. Delicious!
    Myron went to hear Emily (one of the Viking singers) perform solo. Diana went to the cabin tonight to work on photos.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler
    13Fado performance

    04.30.2024 Lisbon, Portugal Day 1/2

    Apr 30–May 1, 2024 in Portugal ⋅ ☁️ 61 °F

    Today we arrived in Lisbon, Portugal but not until 1:00. We were here last July for four days to start our River cruise so our objective today was to pick up a few gifts and enjoy some fine Portuguese wine and beer. We are here overnight so we were in no hurry.
    We walked around and took in some of the narrow alleyways and tile works on the buildings. We went to the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major, often called Lisbon Cathedral or simply the Sé, it is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Lisbon, Portugal. The oldest church in the city, it is the seat of the Patriarchate of Lisbon. It was built in the 12th century.
    From there we wandered over to the Plaza de Pedro IV where we sat and had a beer under an umbrella as it started to rain. Perfect timing, we finished our beer, paid our check and walked down towards the water front and through The Praça do Comércio. It is a large, harbour-facing plaza in Portugal's capital, Lisbon, and is one of the largest in Portugal, with an area of 175 by 175 m, that is, 30,600 m. Facing the Tagus River to the South. The plaza is still commonly known in Portuguese as Terreiro do Paço. It was originally a palace and was destroyed in 1755 by an earthquake.
    We are here still tomorrow so we returned to the ship. Following dinner in the restaurant we attended the Fado show in the Star Theatre.
    Fado a type of Portuguese singing, traditionally associated with pubs and cafés, that is renowned for its expressive and profoundly melancholic character.    Read more

  • Di and My's World Journey2024 Viking World JourneyTraveler

    05.01.2024 Lisbon, Portugal Day 2/2

    May 1, 2024 in Portugal ⋅ ☀️ 54 °F

    Today in the first day in May which means we are in the final month of our cruise and actually in the final 9 days of this amazing journey.
    We only have one sea day in this final stretch so we will be busy and tired and we must pack!
    We are ready to take on the day in Lisbon again. We purchased tickets to go to St Jorge Castle and grabbed a cab to the site. It is all uphill. Found out they are closed as it is Labor Day here, so a national holiday.
    We walked back down and did a little more shopping then returned to the ship for I guess half a sea day in port. Ha!
    Myron went to the spa and Diana worked on photos. (She is waaay behind).
    We went to Explorer’s Lounge for sail away and to dinner in the restaurant.
    Diana went to the cabin to sort photos and Myron went to the show.
    Another gorgeous sunset.    Read more

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