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Where are Paul and Donna
Where are Paul and Donna

Where are Paul and Donna

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  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 10 We really like Novi Sad

    November 15, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ ☀️ 57 °F

    Before today, Donna and I didn’t even know Novi Sad existed. By late afternoon… we were already talking about how much we’d like to come back.

    This little city on the Danube surprised us — not in a loud, showy way — but in that quiet, steady way a place reveals itself when you walk its streets with curiosity.

    Novi Sad is clean, warm, lived-in, and clearly loved by the people who call it home. And on a Saturday, the families were out — kids bundled up, parents strolling slowly, vendors grilling chestnuts, the whole city breathing in a soft, easy rhythm.

    We wandered the market first — crates overflowing with bright red radishes, crisp greens, plump tomatoes, squash sliced open like orange lanterns. Everything felt fresh, vibrant, alive. My color lens was thrilled. Then my black-and-white lens stepped in and picked up the human side: textures, hands, faces, stories.

    The alleys here… some are worn, a bit rough around the edges, peeling paint, graffiti, old doors patched and repatched. But I’ve learned those are the places where the best photographs live. An elderly woman with a cane walked through one of those narrow passages — the kind of moment you don’t stage, the kind you’re grateful to witness.

    Then the charm:

    A cat sunning itself outside a flower shop.

    A man roasting chestnuts on a portable grill, completely in his element. A toddler in a stroller wide-eyed at the world around him.

    A woman leaning out her window, watching all of us pass by as if guarding her corner of the square.

    We stood on the banks of the Danube, looking at the Rinda resting quietly against the shore, the white bridge arching perfectly across the water. The reflection was glass-smooth — a full mirror image. One of those moments where the universe aligns just right.

    A little history for context: Novi Sad is Serbia’s second-largest city, often called the “Serbian Athens” because of its long tradition of art, literature, and culture. It has been shaped — and reshaped — by empires, wars, and reinvention. And yet what you feel walking its streets is simple kindness, openness, and the gentle heartbeat of everyday life.

    Donna and I came here with no expectations. We left with full hearts and beautiful memories.

    Novi Sad — we really like you. And we won’t forget you.

    #NoviSad #Serbia #EasternEuropeCruise #VikingRinda #TravelJournal #StreetPhotography #MarketLife #HiddenGems #DanubeRiver #SimplyStreetTravel #LearningToSee    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 10 Meet Teo, Yuri, and Fred

    November 15, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ ☀️ 50 °F

    I am certain I could never work for Viking Cruise Line. Why, you ask? First, I couldn’t be that nice to so many people for so long. Viking staff greet every guest with a warm smile, a genuine welcome, and somehow keep that going day after day. That’s… not me.

    Second, I simply don’t have the energy. These folks are up at least an hour before the restaurant opens, and Yuri and Teo rotate their shifts so one sets up early and the other jumps in an hour later. Then they switch. Breakfast to lunch to afternoon service — it never stops. Once they finish busing and setting up for one meal, they get a small break and then do it all over again. Like I said… I don’t work this hard.

    And yet, they do all of it with a smile — every single time. By 10 PM they’re in bed so they can do it all again the next day.

    I watch them. Their eyes move left to right across the restaurant like the red light on “KITT,” the car from the old show Knight Rider. A woman struggles to cut a piece of bread — and from across the room one of them swoops in to help before she even asks. They see everything.

    Yuri, Fred, and Teo are constantly in motion, clearing tables, topping off coffee or wine, anticipating needs before we even think of them. Donna and I genuinely enjoy meeting these new friends. Yes, they are doing their jobs — but ask a couple of questions, slow down for just a moment, and a very real human being emerges from behind the coffee pot.

    Yuri:
    Yuri was the first person we met on the ship, and he welcomed us with a bottle of Tomasi Pinot Grigio — our favorite wine. In that moment we knew we were home.
    He’s from the Philippines, has been with Viking for 10 years, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel & Restaurant Management. He’s single — and honestly would be a great catch for the right gal.
    What really surprised me is that he’s an investor. A thoughtful one. He takes his market gains and rolls them into real estate. Smart. Disciplined. You can’t help but be drawn to his enthusiasm for life — and that smile.

    Fred:
    Okay, we have a secret signal at dinnertime when dessert arrives. Fred taps his wrist like he’s checking a watch… I give a slight nod or wink… and moments later a double Baileys on the rocks materializes right in front of me.
    Fred is also from the Philippines, married with two children, and has a degree in Computer Science. He’s been with Viking for 10 years. When he’s home, he loves driving — I imagine a lot of joyful family outings when Dad is back from a segment.

    Teo:
    Teo is the Energizer Bunny on steroids. She’s from Romania, educated in tourism, and previously worked on another cruise line. She’s been with Viking for about a year — and if she seems to smile even more than usual, it might be because she’s newly married… one month! She met her true love on another ship, and now they both work aboard the Rinda.
    When she’s not gracefully taking care of us, she’s outdoors adventuring, traveling, and even bungee jumping. That tracks.

    Those of us who have traveled with Viking before know this: a large part of what we pay for is the feeling of being welcomed into the Viking family. You feel cared for. You feel seen. It’s a kind of graciousness that goes far beyond service.

    Like I said at the beginning of this post — I could never do their jobs. They would absolutely fire me. But Donna and I deeply appreciate the care we receive on our floating home. Getting to know members of the staff reminds us just how small our world truly is… and how precious each of us really are.

    #VikingRinda #LifeOnTheRiver #MeetTheCrew #TravelStories #EasternEuropeCruise #FloatingHome #GratefulTraveler #BehindTheScenes #RiverCruiseLife #SimplyStreetTravel    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 09 Stillness Beneath the Dome

    November 14, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ ☀️ 57 °F

    Today’s included excursion brought us to the magnificent Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade. They say we shouldn’t talk about religion or politics—yet here we are, standing inside one of the most powerful expressions of faith in Serbia. And honestly, once you step through the doors, you understand why travelers keep walking into churches wherever we go.

    The Church of Saint Sava is impossible to ignore. Its enormous white marble exterior rises over the city, built on the very spot where the Ottomans burned the relics of Saint Sava—the first Archbishop of the Serbian Orthodox Church and one of the most important cultural figures in the country’s history. The church itself has taken decades to build; construction began in 1935 and has stopped and restarted through wars, changing governments, and shifting priorities. Even now, the interior mosaics—some of the largest in the world—continue to be installed piece by piece.

    Inside, the atmosphere softens. We watched locals line up quietly to have images of saints blessed—a simple ritual that somehow carries centuries of meaning. The echo of footsteps, the shimmer of gold tiles catching the light, the sense of being held inside something far bigger than yourself… it all invites a moment of pause.

    Whenever we step into places like this, Donna and I find ourselves reflecting on our own beliefs. These houses of worship—no matter the faith—always nudge me back to humility. I’m reminded how limitless the universe is, how small I often feel, and yet how astonishing it is that you and I are part of this vast mystery. I don’t claim to know what truth is—but I’m continually in awe that we get to exist at all, spinning on this fragile blue planet we call home.

    A brief stop on an excursion, a quiet moment under a dome, and a chance to feel the weight and wonder of being alive. Sometimes that’s all you need.

    #Belgrade #SaintSava #Serbia #TravelMoment #VikingCruises #FindPenguins #Architecture    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 09 A little Belgrade drama

    November 14, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ ⛅ 52 °F

    As we were heading back to the tour bus we stumbled onto a moment of pure Belgrade street theater. A young female police officer was laying into a delivery driver who had squeezed his truck halfway onto the sidewalk and right up against our bus. You could see the whole situation written across their expressions—he was just trying to do his job, and she was absolutely determined to do hers.

    We didn’t understand a word of the exchange, but honestly, we didn’t need to. Tone, posture, and attitude translate into every language. The officer had that crisp, no-nonsense stance - she was mad; the driver had the universal “Really? Do we have to do this right now?” shrug. It was a perfect little scene unfolding fifteen feet from us.

    After a few more rounds of back-and-forth, something shifted. Her stern look softened, his shoulders relaxed, and somehow—miraculously—the ticket vanished. No fine. No paperwork. Just two people navigating the dance of city life, each trying to get through their day.

    It lasted maybe three to five minutes. But it was a front-row glimpse into the heartbeat of Belgrade—direct, human, and full of character. A tiny unscripted moment that ends up being far more memorable than anything on the official itinerary.

    #Belgrade #Serbia #StreetDrama #TravelStories #VikingCruises #EasternEuropeAdventure #TravelJournal #FindPenguins #TravelWithDonna #LocalLife #UnscriptedTravel #RiverCruiseLife #WanderWithWonder    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler
    1

    Day 09 - A Belgrade Pause

    November 14, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ ⛅ 50 °F

    This morning in Belgrade we took the included walking tour, winding through the city’s historic center. After about an hour or so on our feet, Donna and I quietly slipped away from the group and asked our guide where we might find a real locals’ café—someplace not on any tourist trail.

    She pointed us toward Kapetepnja, a spot she described simply as “where we go.” That was all the invitation we needed.

    Inside, we were the only tourists in the place. The building once housed a department store, and you can still feel that old-world grandeur—high ceilings, wide open space, and a touch of early-20th-century charm. Now it’s a warm, lived-in hangout where people settle in for slow afternoons with coffee, pastries, and friends.

    Donna and I shared a slice of carrot cake, and I ordered a cappuccino, Donna had green tea. The real joy, though, was watching the staff laugh with each other, teasing back and forth with that familiar ease that comes from years of shared shifts and shared stories.

    Belgrade is a city built in layers—Roman roots, Ottoman touches, and Austro-Hungarian architecture all overlapping. Even in a café like this, you feel that cultural blend humming in the background.

    One detail made us smile: on the table sat a little chewing-gum disposal kit—something we’ve never seen before. Such a small thing, but it speaks volumes about the thoughtful routines of daily life here. I’ve included a couple of photos.

    For 30 or 40 minutes, we turned off our QuietVox, stepped out of “tour mode,” and let the room simply unfold around us. No script, no schedule—just the city revealing itself in its own quiet way.

    As we walked back out into the street, both of us knew: this is one of those small, unscripted moments you treasure. Not part of the excursion list… but absolutely part of the journey.

    #Belgrade #Serbia #TravelMoments #RiverCruiseLife #VikingCruises #LocalsOnly #HiddenGems #CafeCulture #TravelJournal #FindPenguins #TravelWithDonna #EasternEuropeAdventures #StreetScenes #TravelDiaries #WanderWithWonder #SmallMomentsBigMemories    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 09 Belgrade in Tri-X

    November 14, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ ☁️ 41 °F

    Throughout my high school and early college years, I kept a darkroom in my bedroom or should I say I kept my bed in my darkroom? While other kids filled their rooms with posters, I filled mine with the smell of fixer and the soft drip of drying prints. My dad’s rangefinder was always around my neck, and for a long stretch of my life, the world existed only in black and white. Light and shadow. Shape and truth. Nothing extra.

    Some ways of seeing the world never leave you.

    So while Belgrade dazzles with cafés, colors, and the grandeur of its churches, what I really see comes alive only when I strip the world back to Tri-X tones. That gritty honesty. The beautiful imperfections. The texture of a city revealing itself without the distraction of color.

    In these images you’ll find the real Belgrade as it appeared to me: the man resting alone on a park bench, leaning just enough to let the afternoon hold him… dog walkers being tugged in every direction like a living jazz rhythm… thick, wandering graffiti spreading across stone walls like the city’s heartbeat written in its own handwriting… and the streets themselves—cracked, textured, layered—carrying the stories of thousands of ordinary days.

    Take a slow walk through these photographs. Let your eye linger on the shadows, the angles, the small human moments.

    In monochrome, Belgrade feels raw, honest, and wonderfully alive—exactly the way I love to see the world.

    #Belgrade #Serbia #StreetPhotography #BlackAndWhite #TriX #FilmLook #TravelJournal #FindPenguins #WanderWithDonna #EasternEuropeAdventure #TravelStories #PhotographyLovers    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 08 Voices of Negotin

    November 13, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ 🌙 48 °F

    The Rinda eased into the very small town of Negotin tonight—tucked into Serbia’s eastern corner, not far from the borders with both Romania and Bulgaria. It’s a quiet place known for its wine country and for being the birthplace of Stevan Mokranjac, Serbia’s most beloved composer. A fitting detail, given how the night unfolded.

    We stepped off the ship for an evening walk through the town. The first thing I noticed was the smell of wood-burning stoves drifting through the air—homes warming themselves the old-fashioned way. The scent carried a certain charm, but it was strong… and for some, a little tough to breathe.

    Our path led us to the Holy Trinity Church of Negotin, where the choir gathered to sing a short concert just for us. The interior walls are alive with centuries of sacred art—icons glowing under soft light, stories of faith rendered in color and gold. When the choir began, their voices rose and filled every corner of that space. For a few moments I felt lifted—quiet, reflective—thinking about the enormity of the universe and our tiny place inside it. Music can do that.

    Afterward we walked to a local school, where our guide gave us an unexpectedly fascinating crash course on the Serbian language. They use three writing systems—Cyrillic, Latin, and a specialized Serbian variation—and switch between them depending on context. My brain would melt, but they make it sound effortless.

    On the way back to the ship, I ducked into a small grocery store and picked up a bottle of Serbian white wine for later. Our guide, a young woman proud of her roots, spoke openly about life here—safe streets, close-knit community, simple routines. It felt honest and unpolished in the best possible way.

    Another good day. Another reminder of how much beauty lives in the quieter corners of the world.

    #EasternEurope #TravelJournal #VikingCruises #Negotin #SerbiaTravel #RiverCruiseLife #HolyTrinityChurch #TravelWriter #OnTheRinda #ChoirMusic #CulturalExperience #SlowTravel #PaulAndDonnaAdventures #FindPenguins    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 08 A Quiet Moment at the Dock

    November 13, 2025 in Serbia ⋅ ☀️ 52 °F

    Late this afternoon, as the sun was slipping behind the hills, I wandered down to the dock where the Rinda was tied up and found two older gentlemen already deep into their day—rods out, lines in the water, completely unbothered by the flow of passengers coming and going. They stood there like fixtures of the riverbank, bundled against the chill, balanced on the crumbling concrete edge as if they’d been fishing this exact spot for decades.

    One of the men suddenly leaned back, rod arched high, giving the full performance of someone landing a legendary catch. The suspense was perfect—this silhouetted figure against the soft glow of the setting sun, absolutely convinced he had a beast on the line. I stopped to watch, couldn’t help myself. And when he finally reeled it in? His “big one” turned out to be… well… modest. We all laughed—him, his friend, and me. No translation needed for that kind of shared humor.

    With the Rinda reflected in the quiet water behind them and the sky fading to that soft evening silver, the whole scene felt beautifully unscripted. These are the moments that make travel feel real—little gifts that appear when you’re simply paying attention.

    Travel is good. These moments are even better.    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 08 Lock at Drobeta-Turnu Severin

    November 13, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ⛅ 45 °F

    Today we slipped through the locks at Drobeta-Turnu, and I’m always amazed at how quietly these huge pieces of engineering do their work. One minute you’re level with the river, the next you’re rising—or sinking—like the ship is taking a slow breath.

    Standing out on deck, watching the concrete walls slide by, I felt that familiar mix of curiosity and gratitude that travel always brings out in me. The Danube was calm, the light was soft, and for a few minutes the whole ship seemed to pause with me. Moments like this remind me why I love being on the water—there’s always something happening, even when it looks like nothing at all.    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 07 Belogradchik Fortress, Bulgaria

    November 12, 2025 in Bulgaria ⋅ 🌙 52 °F

    We made the hour-long bus ride to the Belogradchik Fortress, tucked high in the Balkan Mountains of northwestern Bulgaria. The climb up was very steep — the kind of incline that makes you question your life choices for a minute — but absolutely doable. And once you reach the top, every treacherous step suddenly feels worth it. The views and the silence up there are something special.

    The fortress itself is unlike anything I’ve seen before. Instead of being built on the rocks, it’s built into them. Massive sandstone formations rise straight out of the earth, and the fortress walls simply continue the lines of the cliffs — stone blending into stone. It feels ancient, wild, and strangely peaceful all at once.

    A few bits of history to give the place some context:

    The first fortifications here date back to Roman times (1st–3rd century AD).

    Later, the Ottomans expanded it into one of the strongest defensive positions in the region.

    It saw major action during the Serbian–Bulgarian War of 1885.

    The surrounding Belogradchik Rocks are over 200 million years old, sculpted by time into towers, spires, and cliffs with almost storybook shapes.

    Walking through narrow stone passages, climbing uneven steps, and standing on those high lookout points, you feel centuries under your feet. Then you look out… and there’s this endless sweep of red rock pillars, deep forests, and open sky. A breathtaking reward for the climb.

    Before leaving, we picked up a bottle of Bulgarian white wine from a local vendor — a small treat to bring back onboard. That evening, we shared it with Melody & Barry over dinner, which made the day feel even more complete.

    At dinner, I should note: Viking always offers a Regional Specialties Menu, and it’s usually my first choice. Why not try the flavors of wherever you are in the world? It makes each meal feel like another part of the journey.

    #VikingCruises #BelogradchikFortress #Bulgaria #BelogradchikRocks #DanubeRiver #EasternEuropeTravel #HistoricPlaces #WorthTheClimb #TravelBlog #RegionalFlavors    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 06 Inside the Pleven Panorama Museum

    November 11, 2025 in Bulgaria ⋅ ☁️ 52 °F

    This afternoon we visited the Pleven Panorama Museum, and honestly — it’s one of those places that quietly sneaks up on you. From the outside, the building looks like a giant concrete drum set in the middle of a peaceful hilltop park. But once you step through the doors, the entire story of Bulgaria’s fight for independence unfolds around you in this sweeping, emotional way that feels part museum, part time machine.

    The museum was built to honor the Siege of Pleven (1877) — a turning point in the Russo-Turkish War that eventually led to Bulgaria’s freedom from nearly five centuries of Ottoman rule. Before today, “Pleven” was just a name on our itinerary. Leaving the Panorama, it felt like I understood why Bulgarians speak about this place with such pride.

    The first level guides you gently into the story — artifacts from the battlefield, original uniforms, artillery shells, handwritten notes, even medical tools that make you wince just looking at them. Each display feels like a quiet whisper from someone who lived through it.

    But the real magic is on the third floor — the Panorama itself.
    You walk up the ramp, turn the corner… and suddenly you’re surrounded by a 360-degree battlefield painting over 300 feet long. It’s not just a painting — it’s a full immersion. The floor blends seamlessly into the canvas with real soil, broken wagon wheels, sandbags, rifles, grass, and trenches that merge with the painted world. The lighting shifts as you walk, and the soundtrack of distant cannon fire and horses pulls you deeper in.

    It feels like stepping straight into 1877 — not in a violent way, but in a way that lets you feel the intensity, the bravery, and the cost. The brushwork is dramatic, full of motion and emotion. Faces of soldiers blur into smoke; sunlight breaks through clouds and highlights the chaos; and in the distance, you see the moment when the tide turned and the siege finally broke.

    Standing in the middle of that circular space, Donna and I didn’t talk much. It didn’t feel like a place for chatter. It felt like a place to absorb — a place to honor the people who stood on this land long before we did.

    If you ever find yourself in Bulgaria, the Pleven Panorama is one of those unexpected “wow” moments. A blend of art, history, and human resilience — all wrapped in one unforgettable room.

    #VikingCruises #Pleven #Bulgaria #PlevenPanorama #HistoryAndArt #EasternEuropeTravel #TravelBlog #MuseumMoments #DanubeJourney    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 06 Welcome to Pleven, Bulgaria

    November 11, 2025 in Bulgaria ⋅ ☁️ 54 °F

    As I mentioned in an earlier post, I woke up early and shared the lounge with a few other early risers — the quiet kind of company that feels companionable without words. I had my morning cappuccino, watched the soft light drift through the fog over the Danube, and took out my sketchbook. I’ve included a quick pencil sketch from that moment — a view out the lounge window as the Rinda moved steadily upriver.

    A little later, Donna made her way out from under the covers (her favorite place to be some mornings), and we headed to breakfast together. Afterwards came my first real lesson in “Washing Your Clothes on a Riverboat 101” — courtesy of Donna, my onboard laundry instructor:

    Fill the bathroom sink with water.

    Add a dash of Viking-provided shampoo.

    Toss in socks, briefs, or whatever needs love.

    Squeeze and swish while making realistic washing machine noises (very important).

    Let it soak for five minutes.

    Rinse until the water is mostly clear.

    Squeeze out the water.

    Roll everything in a towel and twist to get even more moisture out.

    Hang to dry — ready by tomorrow if you’re lucky!

    We’ve taken to alternating laundry days, which keeps things peaceful. Quick-dry fabrics really are worth their weight in gold. And here’s a pro tip: a Tide stain-remover pen is your best friend — especially if, like me, you occasionally wear what you eat.

    After laundry duty came lunch (thankfully not cooked by me), followed by our afternoon tour of Pleven, a city with deep roots in Bulgaria’s history. Pleven became famous during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877, where the Siege of Pleven turned the tide toward Bulgaria’s eventual independence from Ottoman rule. The city is also home to the stunning Pleven Panorama, a massive circular painting and diorama that immerses visitors in that historic battle.

    Today, Pleven feels both modern and proud — broad boulevards, leafy parks, and monuments that honor its resilience. Walking its streets, you can feel the layers of history beneath your feet — the same way the Danube itself carries the stories of every shore it touches.

    After a visit to the Pleven Panorama Museum we made it back to the ship of an evening adult beverage. Cheers!

    #VikingCruises #Pleven #Bulgaria #DanubeRiver #RiverCruiseLife #TravelBlog #LaundryDay #TravelTips #EasternEuropeTravel #ArtOnTheRiver #PlevenPanorama #TravelMoments    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 06 Morning Solitude on the River

    November 11, 2025 in Bulgaria ⋅ 🌧 54 °F

    Before sunrise aboard the Viking Rinda, I discovered a rare pocket of stillness — soft mist, the sound of the sea, and a quiet corner perfect for reflection and sketching. A peaceful moment between ports that reminded me how good solitude feels.

    ⸻

    This morning I woke up around 5:30 AM. Not wanting to disturb Donna’s sleep, I quietly got dressed and slipped out to the lounge. The Viking staff were already at work — busy as church mice — making sure everything was in perfect order before the travelers stirred for the day.

    A few early birds were scattered around the lounge, some lost in a book, others tapping on their laptops. I grabbed a couple of cappuccinos from the coffee station and set them down at my favorite corner table. From there, I could see the faint glow of dawn stretching across the horizon.

    I took out my phone and recorded a short video — the dark sky, the faint mist, the rhythmic sound of the water softly crashing against the bow of the Rinda as she glided toward our next port.

    For the first time in days, I found myself alone with my thoughts. I opened my small sketchbook and began a quick pen and ink drawing of what I was seeing, what I was feeling. The quiet, the movement of the ship, the subtle hum of the engines — it all felt like meditation.

    It’s peaceful this morning. No chatter, no clinking glasses, no voices competing for space. Just the sea, the ship, and me.

    And for a moment, I realized how much I need this — these quiet pauses, this happy place where I can simply draw and be.

    ⸻

    Tags:
    #VikingCruise #MorningAtSea #TravelJournal #QuietMoments #SketchbookStories #EasternEuropeRiverCruise    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 05 Rising Up Black Sea to Danube

    November 10, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ☁️ 64 °F

    Today we transitioned from the Black Sea into the Danube River — an incredible experience to witness firsthand. I’ve always been impressed by how things work, and watching this process felt like seeing quiet engineering magic in motion.

    As we entered the lock, massive concrete walls rose around us. The crew tied the ship securely to the wall, and I reached out and touched it — cool, damp, and solid as history itself. Then slowly, almost imperceptibly, the Viking Rinda began to rise. The movement was so smooth that if I hadn’t been watching the changing view, I’d have sworn we weren’t moving at all.

    At one point, I looked over to see a small herd of sheep being guided down a narrow road that runs parallel to the canal — a quiet moment of rural life framed perfectly against this marvel of modern engineering. As the lock filled, we rose higher and higher until, from the top deck, we were suddenly above the land beside us.

    A little factoid: the Danube–Black Sea Canal, completed in 1984, stretches roughly 40 miles (64 km) and connects the river directly to the sea — saving ships hundreds of miles on their journey. Each lock can lift vessels more than 50 feet to match the Danube’s elevation.

    It’s one of those moments where technology, nature, and human ingenuity come together — silently, beautifully, and right beneath your feet.

    #VikingCruises #VikingRinda #DanubeRiver #BlackSeaCanal #RiverLocks #EasternEuropeTravel #EngineeringMarvel #TravelBlog #QuietMoments #TravelPhotography    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 05 A Quiet Morning in Constanța

    November 10, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ☁️ 59 °F

    It’s Monday, November 10th — hard to believe this is already Day 5. Time is flying! The ship leaves Constanța at noon, but we decided not to venture into town on our own today. Yesterday’s walking tour gave us just the right taste of the city, and today feels like the perfect day to slow down, unwind, and simply enjoy being here.

    I finally got my hot chocolate and found a cozy table in the lounge — the perfect spot to start catching up on our FindPenguins posts. Outside, a soft fog lingers over the harbor, giving everything a peaceful, dreamlike feel.

    I was up early, around 7:00 AM, for breakfast, while Donna caught up a little later at 8:30. Most passengers are off exploring on their own, so we have the ship almost to ourselves. It’s quiet… calm… and just what we needed.

    #VikingCruises #Constanta #DanubeRiver #EasternEuropeTravel #RiverCruiseLife #TravelBlog #QuietMorning #TravelMoments    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler
    2

    Day 04 Constanta through the Tri-X lens

    November 9, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ☁️ 64 °F

    I thought it would be fun to break out the old Leica 35mm rangefinder and load up a roll of Tri-X film. Enjoy these black-and-white views of Constanța.

    There’s something about shooting in monochrome that strips a place down to its essence — light, texture, and soul. Constanța, perched on the western edge of the Black Sea, is Romania’s oldest continuously inhabited city, once known as Tomis during Roman times. You can still see traces of that layered history in the weathered stone walls and arches scattered throughout the city. Ancient foundations seem to breathe just below the surface, quietly supporting the newer lives built above them.

    The port terminal greeted us with bright lights and modern polish, but once outside, the story changed — cobblestone streets, fading facades, and a mix of architectural eras brushing up against each other. Here, centuries collide: Roman ruins framed by glass office windows, Ottoman doorways opening beside modern cafés. The city feels like a collage of time — the old world and the new sharing the same narrow streets.

    A mosque’s minaret pierced the gray sky; Orthodox domes shimmered nearby. Street murals whispered hope against cracked plaster, and cats stood guard like sentinels of the old quarter.

    One of the most photographed landmarks here is the Constanța Casino, an Art Nouveau masterpiece built in 1910 that now sits abandoned, slowly being restored. It feels like a perfect metaphor for this city — elegant, resilient, and waiting for renewal.

    From Roman ruins tucked beside glass buildings to small chapels filled with candlelight, Constanța reveals a dialogue between time and endurance. The Tri-X brought out every contrast — the grit, the grace, and the timeless rhythm of life along the Black Sea.

    Sometimes color distracts. Black and white lets you see.

    #VikingCruises #Constanta #Romania #BlackAndWhitePhotography #Leica #TriXFilm #StreetPhotography #EasternEuropeTravel #ConstantaCasino #Tomis #TravelBlog #MonochromeMoments #TravelPhotography    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler
    1

    Day 04 A Toast to Home on the River

    November 9, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ☁️ 64 °F

    This photo deserves its own post.

    We boarded the Viking Rinda around noontime, just in time for lunch — our first meal onboard and our first real taste of ship life. The waiter offered us the house red or white, but we asked if they had a Pinot Grigio. He paused politely to confirm we had the Silver Spirits package (we do — and yes, it’s worth every penny).

    A few minutes later, he returned to our table holding a bottle of Tommasi Pinot Grigio. Donna and I looked at each other and just laughed. That smile said it all — we were home.

    On our World Cruise, Donna discovered Tommasi and fell in love with it. Since then, it’s become our go-to white wine — we even have it shipped to our home by the case.

    So, when that familiar bottle appeared before us on our very first afternoon aboard the Rinda, it felt like a sign — a gentle reminder that Viking always takes good care of us.

    We’re on our floating home once again.

    I did add photos of the port outside our balcony, a selfie in our room, and the Viking Daily - this is the Bible for the events of the day.

    #VikingCruises #VikingRinda #DanubeRiver #TommasiPinotGrigio #SilverSpirits #TravelBlog #FloatingHome #EasternEuropeCruise #WineMoments #TravelMemories    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 03 Catedrala Națională, Bucharest,

    November 8, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ☁️ 52 °F

    The Catedrala Națională, also known as the People’s Salvation Cathedral, rises high above Bucharest — massive, golden, and awe-inspiring. Standing before it, I couldn’t help but feel small, like I was looking up at a symbol of both faith and ambition.

    Construction began in 2010 and it’s still ongoing, but even unfinished, the scale is staggering — it’s one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. The gold domes gleam even through the haze, and the stonework feels timeless, echoing centuries of devotion and resilience.

    Inside, the air was hushed, heavy with incense and reverence. Candles flickered softly, and the sound of distant chanting carried through the enormous hall. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down — not just to look, but to feel.

    Donna was drawn to the imagery — not in a religious way, but in appreciation of its beauty, color, and intricate detail. I found myself captivated by the stories told across the walls — scenes of faith, struggle, and endurance carved and painted into every surface.

    One of my favorite photos was taken from directly beneath the grand chandelier. In one shot, the chandelier hides the face of Christ — a striking image of mystery and shadow. In the next, as I leaned back slightly, His face came into view, illuminated in perfect balance. Two moments, just inches apart, yet completely different in feeling.

    Whether you come for the architecture, the art, or the quiet power of the space, this cathedral leaves a lasting impression.

    Hint: You need to view all the photos to get to the chandelier images. It's worth it.

    #VikingCruises #Bucharest #Romania #CatedralaNationala #PeoplesSalvationCathedral #EasternEuropeTravel #SacredPlaces #TravelPhotography #FaithAndArt #ChandelierPerspective #TravelBlog    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 03 Happy Birthday Paul

    November 8, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ☁️ 52 °F

    Today is Paul’s 69th birthday.

    So, Paul, what did you do for your birthday?
    “Well… we had dinner.”
    Where?
    “A little place called Caru’ cu Bere — a spot recommended by Daniel, a fellow traveler we met on our flight from London to Bucharest.”

    Caru’ cu Bere (which means “The Beer Wagon”) is one of Bucharest’s most famous restaurants, dating back to 1879. The Gothic Revival interior feels like stepping into an old movie set — vaulted ceilings, stained glass, carved wood, and waiters who move with quiet precision.

    We ordered the house special: pork knuckle, served with cabbage, horseradish, and cornmeal. A wise move letting the waiter debone it! The meal was hearty, though we found the flavors more comforting than exciting — satisfying, but missing those musical sensory notes that make a dish sing.

    But dessert… that was another story. Donna went for the chocolate cake, and I chose the warm, donut-like pastry. Wow. The orchestra came alive — a full symphony of sweetness dancing across our taste buds.

    If you’d told me anytime in my 69 years that I’d be celebrating a birthday dinner with my lovely wife in the heart of Bucharest, Romania, I’d have thought you were crazy. Yet there we were — like characters from a Clive Cussler novel: me, the unsuspecting CIA agent, and Donna, the undercover operative… sharing laughter and dessert in a centuries-old restaurant somewhere in Eastern Europe.

    #VikingCruises #Bucharest #CaruCuBere #Romania #BirthdayAbroad #TravelBlog #TravelRomance #EasternEuropeAdventure #FoodieTravel    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler
    2

    Day 03 Exploring Bucharest

    November 8, 2025 in Romania ⋅ 🌧 48 °F

    Today was our first full day to really explore Bucharest. We took a guided bus tour through Romania’s capital — a city of contrasts and surprises. The architecture is amazing — a fascinating blend of Old World European elegance, stark Soviet-era blocks, and bold modern design. Bucharest is often called “Little Paris” for its grand boulevards and ornate facades, and you can still see traces of that charm everywhere.

    After the tour, we wandered through the historic center, following narrow cobblestone streets lined with cafés, music, and the hum of local life. We passed under the golden glass roof of the Macca-Vilacrosse Passage — a hidden gem glowing softly in the afternoon light — and ducked into a small souvenir shop. I picked up a new sticker for my suitcase, and Donna found another ornament for our Christmas collection.

    The funny part is, we always seem to travel in the winter… yet we still haven’t set up our first “travel tree” to hang them on. Maybe this year will be the one.

    #VikingCruises #Bucharest #Romania #MaccaVilacrosse #EasternEuropeTravel #LittleParis #TravelBlog #CityExploration #TravelMemories    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler
    On the bus from the airport to the hotel in Bucharest, Romania
    Out the bus windowFriday night traffic in the rain

    Day 02 Finally Sleep!

    November 7, 2025 in Romania ⋅ ☁️ 48 °F

    About 36 hours after waking up the day before, we finally arrived at the Marriott Hotel in Bucharest. It was dark, a light rain falling, and city lights shimmered on the wet streets below. After such a long journey, it felt wonderful to be greeted by the calm efficiency of the Viking staff — friendly smiles, luggage handled, no more decisions to make.

    Once we reached our room, we took quick showers and let the hot water wash away the travel fatigue. The hotel is beautiful — spacious, elegant, and quiet. The moment my head hit that soft pillow, wrapped in a warm comforter, I could almost feel the world stop spinning.

    Sleep never felt so good.

    #VikingCruises #Bucharest #MarriottHotel #EasternEuropeTravel #RiverCruiseAdventure #TravelRest #TravelBlog    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler
    Bradley Airport, Windsor Locks, Connecticut
    This is all we brought each.On the planeApple TV - Binging "Masters of the Air" kept me from being bored Great WW2 showOur route London to Bucharest1I love watching the flaps come out we we land.

    Day 01 The Adventure Begins

    November 6, 2025 in the United States ⋅ ⛅ 50 °F

    It’s been a long day — up at 7:00 AM to finish packing. Uber picked us up at noon, and our flight out of Bradley Airport in Hartford left around 4:30 PM for Philadelphia. From there, it was a 7+ hour flight to London, then on to Bucharest, Romania. YES, WE ARE VERY TIRED!

    Thursday, November 6th somehow turned into Friday, November 7th — and we never really slept. Maybe a few winks on the flight to London, but that’s it. Over 36 hours awake!

    One of our main goals this trip was to not overpack like we did on our world cruise. This time, we each brought just a carry-on, a backpack, and our CPAP machines (with meds tucked inside).

    Unlike our 2023–24 world cruise — when we missed our flights and started in chaos — everything went smoothly this time. And for those wondering: no, I didn’t lose my CPAP machine! But true to form, I did manage to lose one hearing aid on the plane. Thankfully, that little inner voice told me to pack a backup pair.

    The flights were long but doable, and by the time we reached our hotel in Bucharest, we were completely exhausted.

    The adventure begins!    Read more

  • Where are Paul and DonnaEastern European River CruiseTraveler

    Day 00 Travel Planning

    November 6, 2025 in the United States ⋅ 🌙 43 °F

    This post is just a placeholder for our future travels. I will update this Day 00 with new information as it becomes available.

    When on our Viking World Cruise, Viking offered us an opportunity to purchase another cruise. No surprise! We bought two. An Eastern Europe River cruise and a Mediterranean Ocean Cruise - This will help us make up for the countries we missed due to the World Cruise getting redirected.

    This trip will be much more than Eastern Europe: It is actually 3 seperate cruises two river and one ocean - with an extension to Jordan to experience Petra. (One of my bucket list items). Here is our itinerary thus far.
    2025 Cruise

    Bucharest, Romania – Friday, November 7
    Bucharest, Romania – Saturday, November 8
    Constanța, Romania – Sunday, November 9
    Constanța, Romania – Monday, November 10
    Pleven, Bulgaria – Tuesday, November 11
    Vidin, Bulgaria – Wednesday, November 12
    Donji Milanovac, Serbia – Thursday, November 13
    Belgrade, Serbia – Friday, November 14
    Novi Sad, Serbia – Saturday, November 15
    Ilok, Croatia – Sunday, November 16
    Mohács, Hungary – Monday, November 17
    Budapest, Hungary – Tuesday, November 18
    Budapest, Hungary – Wednesday, November 19
    Bratislava, Slovakia – Thursday, November 20
    Vienna, Austria – Friday, November 21
    Vienna, Austria – Saturday, November 22
    Vienna, Austria – Sunday, November 23
    Barcelona, Spain – Monday, December 1
    Barcelona, Spain – Tuesday, December 2
    Palamós, Spain – Wednesday, December 3
    Marseille, France – Thursday, December 4
    Villefranche-sur-Mer, France – Friday, December 5
    Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy – Saturday, December 6
    Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy – Sunday, December 7
    Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy – Monday, December 8
    Naples, Italy – Tuesday, December 9
    Sicily (Messina), Italy – Wednesday, December 10
    Crotone, Italy – Thursday, December 11
    Bari, Italy – Friday, December 12
    Šibenik, Croatia – Saturday, December 13
    Venice (Fusina), Italy – Sunday, December 14
    Venice (Fusina), Italy – Monday, December 15
    Venice (Fusina), Italy – Tuesday, December 16
    Split, Croatia – Wednesday, December 17
    Dubrovnik, Croatia – Thursday, December 18
    Kotor, Montenegro – Friday, December 19
    Corfu (Kérkyra), Greece – Saturday, December 20
    Olympia (Katakolon), Greece – Sunday, December 21
    Athens (Piraeus), Greece – Monday, December 22
    Athens (Piraeus), Greece – Tuesday, December 23
    Crete (Heraklion), Greece – Wednesday, December 24
    Sail the Ionian Sea – Thursday, December 25
    Ephesus (Kuşadasi), Turkey – Friday, December 26
    Troy (Çanakkale), Turkey – Saturday, December 27
    Istanbul, Turkey – Sunday, December 28
    Istanbul, Turkey – Monday, December 29
    Istanbul, Turkey – Tuesday, December 30
    Istanbul, Turkey – Wednesday, December 31
    Cairo, Egypt – Thursday, January 1
    Cairo, Egypt – Friday, January 2
    Cairo, Egypt – Saturday, January 3
    Qena, Egypt – Sunday, January 4
    Luxor, Egypt – Monday, January 5
    Esna, Egypt – Tuesday, January 6
    Aswan, Egypt – Wednesday, January 7
    Aswan, Egypt – Thursday, January 8
    Edfu, Egypt – Friday, January 9
    Cairo, Egypt – Saturday, January 10
    Cairo, Egypt – Sunday, January 11
    Dead Sea, Jordan – Monday, January 12
    Petra, Jordan – Tuesday, January 13
    Petra, Jordan – Wednesday, January 14
    Amman, Jordan – Thursday, January 15

    Honestly, I am hoping to expand this into February to spend maybe a month in Northern Italy. We need to be back in the States before Ozzy's 2nd birthday on March 7, 2026.

    Stay tuned for more nation as it develops.    Read more

  • Jackson Pollack Pilgrimage II
    1

    Paying Respects

    September 28, 2025 in the United States ⋅ ⛅ 66 °F

    Last year when we did our first Jackson Pollock pilgrimage we stopped by the cemetery where Jackson and Lee are buried. I left a paint brush on Pollocks’ gravestone.

    This morning as we are heading home we stopped by the cemetery. The paint brush was gone. But, I found the brush I left on Jackson’s stone had been moved to Lee’s gravestone.

    I don’t know - maybe I am foolish? But, I have created a connection with this artist. Maybe it is life of disfunction I relate to. Our like the hope of winning Powerball - I would like to find a thread of creativity within myself that matters. Or maybe I am just foolish?    Read more

  • Jackson Pollack Pilgrimage II
    1

    A quiet moment

    September 28, 2025 in the United States ⋅ ⛅ 64 °F

    This morning I woke up early at our AirBNB. Pollock-Krasner home is only 1 mile away. I enjoyed a peace walk from the AirBNB to their house.

    While walking on the quiet roads I could only imagine how peaceful this area might have been 75 years ago.

    I sat on the rocks in the backyard and overlooked the quiet marsh and water. I did wave into the video camera as I entered the property after hours.

    Four deer crossed the property and made me smile.

    Pollock did good most creative work while sober and living on this property. His studio is large enough for his massive canvases. To be able to wake up each day and have the beauty of this nature scene refresh yo and start your day. If we ever move from East Windsor - this is the experience I want each morning. I want peacefulness and beauty.

    I was able to take a few photos - and try to capture just a bit of Jacksons’ energy and pocket it in my creative stash.

    I know I can be a loud in your face person at times - I am working on it - But, quiet times like this morning really touch my spirit.    Read more

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