Wednesday, 4 December 2013
More shopping at The Mall!
Thanksgiving Dinner was great. Clive's sister is lovely, I really like her and she also made great food! I also got to meet his brother and his girlfriend, they were also lovely. His niece and some her friends were there. They are all so attractive - oh to be young again! - ( Not really). We did a traditional thing, we had to stand in a circle and say what we wanted to say Thank-you for. I had already had a few Pinot Grigio's - so no problem.
Sunday. We were going to go for Brunch at The Marriott, but as we were walking along the Broadwalk before going to the hotel, we found a cafe doing a Brunch for half the price - we thought we could then go to The Mall and eat there also! A day with no cooking for me! We have a good day out. There are some many bargains in the stores, most stores with 30-40% discounts! We were going to The Cheesescake Factory - a restaurant chain, but instead went to The Food Hall and had an Asian meal deal! It was very good.
I have a couple of photos of the Christmas Decoration in The Mall, will post them on The Blog.
Sunday. We were going to go for Brunch at The Marriott, but as we were walking along the Broadwalk before going to the hotel, we found a cafe doing a Brunch for half the price - we thought we could then go to The Mall and eat there also! A day with no cooking for me! We have a good day out. There are some many bargains in the stores, most stores with 30-40% discounts! We were going to The Cheesescake Factory - a restaurant chain, but instead went to The Food Hall and had an Asian meal deal! It was very good.
I have a couple of photos of the Christmas Decoration in The Mall, will post them on The Blog.
Thursday, 28 November 2013
Thanksgiving!
Today is Thanksgiving - a huge holiday in US. The roads are just gridlocked with traffic - everyone seems to go home for family gatherings. I think it's a bigger festival than Christmas here. The weather has caused mayhem for travellers. The snow, rain and high winds, has been a logistical nightmare for the Airlines - planes may be able to leave but can't land! They have Airports that are Hubs for onward flights - it's all been crazy. We have had heavy rain and high winds but still quite warm, also mostly at night.
Today the sun is shining and not a cloud in the sky, but much cooler - only about 74 degrees. I am busy doing laundry and then hoping to get to the pool. We have been invited to Clive's sister's place for ' Thanksgiving ' dinner. We thought it might be the traditional Turkey Dinner but it's more of a Jamaican meal - Clive is very excited! I made my stew last night - I thought it was good, but, I think it was a struggle for Clive to eat it and find something good to say about it - he does try to be polite!
Must get on and finish chores. The sun lounger is waiting!
Today the sun is shining and not a cloud in the sky, but much cooler - only about 74 degrees. I am busy doing laundry and then hoping to get to the pool. We have been invited to Clive's sister's place for ' Thanksgiving ' dinner. We thought it might be the traditional Turkey Dinner but it's more of a Jamaican meal - Clive is very excited! I made my stew last night - I thought it was good, but, I think it was a struggle for Clive to eat it and find something good to say about it - he does try to be polite!
Must get on and finish chores. The sun lounger is waiting!
Monday, 25 November 2013
A day at The Mall for me!
We have been keeping up our early morning swim - the heating in the pool is not working properly, it's very cold!
We have also had some dreadful storms - extremely high winds and very heavy rain. I think we are lucky compared to a lot of US. Some places have very heavy snow and lots of ice. We hope it's all ok for Thursday - it's 'Thanksgiving'. We have been invited to Clive's Sister's home for dinner - think I had better take an apple or pumpkin pie! ( or maybe just an apple or a pumpkin!). I have made the 'Jamaican Rice and Peas again, I think it was was missing the Jamaican bit this time! ( different recipe). It will be nice to meet up with his family again.
Well, today I went to The Mall! Clive had to do something near by, so he dropped me there for 4 1/2 hours! I indulged in a touch of retail therapy! - well I will need some clothes for New York. The Mall was all decorated for Christmas, it looked great. A very enjoyable day!
We have made a few plans for New York. We have booked two City Passes, they are for major sites -: Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, plus many Galleries etc. We also have tickets, for Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. Neither of us have seen the show and both look forward to it! - good old Travel Zoo, some great deals!
No photos to Blog yet - must try and get some loaded tomorrow.
We have also had some dreadful storms - extremely high winds and very heavy rain. I think we are lucky compared to a lot of US. Some places have very heavy snow and lots of ice. We hope it's all ok for Thursday - it's 'Thanksgiving'. We have been invited to Clive's Sister's home for dinner - think I had better take an apple or pumpkin pie! ( or maybe just an apple or a pumpkin!). I have made the 'Jamaican Rice and Peas again, I think it was was missing the Jamaican bit this time! ( different recipe). It will be nice to meet up with his family again.
Well, today I went to The Mall! Clive had to do something near by, so he dropped me there for 4 1/2 hours! I indulged in a touch of retail therapy! - well I will need some clothes for New York. The Mall was all decorated for Christmas, it looked great. A very enjoyable day!
We have made a few plans for New York. We have booked two City Passes, they are for major sites -: Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, plus many Galleries etc. We also have tickets, for Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. Neither of us have seen the show and both look forward to it! - good old Travel Zoo, some great deals!
No photos to Blog yet - must try and get some loaded tomorrow.
Saturday, 23 November 2013
PART 2. The return!
Well folks, here I am again back in Florida! It feels good to be back. It's like I've never been away.
I had a great flight - left an hour late and arrived half an hour early! Went through immigration with out any trouble, although they really are intimidating! I was so glad I had my Visa! Clive was there to meet me - it was so lovely to see him. He has lost more weight - I must do something! By the time I had come through to the exit, it was pouring with rain! The same as last time, but this time it was already dark. The roads were so flooded - and the lake behind the appartments is full to overflowing! Glad we are on the forth floor.
When we got home, Clive had decorated with balloons for my arrival - they said " you're so special". He is very thoughtful ! It just feels like I was here yesterday. I'm so comfortable here!
We watch a movie Skyfall - enjoyed it so far. Clive was falling asleep. I also need some rest, my body thinks it 5am!
Today We have a lovely breakfast together and then went shopping for food. I also needed a hair dryer - off to Costco we go. We ended up with a trolley load - again enough fruit to feed you all! When we got back I had to give in to my Jet lag, and go to bed. I did get up about 8.30pm, we were going to watch the end of Skyfall. Unfortunately I had to go back to bed - had a good night sleep and feel so much better for it.
This morning we started our healthy routine. We went to the pool and did a few length's, and walked a few laps. It is much cooler today but still lovely and sunny. I think it suits me much better than the summer heat. We are planning a walk on the beach later - if good weather holds out. Think I need a quiet day.
I had a great flight - left an hour late and arrived half an hour early! Went through immigration with out any trouble, although they really are intimidating! I was so glad I had my Visa! Clive was there to meet me - it was so lovely to see him. He has lost more weight - I must do something! By the time I had come through to the exit, it was pouring with rain! The same as last time, but this time it was already dark. The roads were so flooded - and the lake behind the appartments is full to overflowing! Glad we are on the forth floor.
When we got home, Clive had decorated with balloons for my arrival - they said " you're so special". He is very thoughtful ! It just feels like I was here yesterday. I'm so comfortable here!
We watch a movie Skyfall - enjoyed it so far. Clive was falling asleep. I also need some rest, my body thinks it 5am!
Today We have a lovely breakfast together and then went shopping for food. I also needed a hair dryer - off to Costco we go. We ended up with a trolley load - again enough fruit to feed you all! When we got back I had to give in to my Jet lag, and go to bed. I did get up about 8.30pm, we were going to watch the end of Skyfall. Unfortunately I had to go back to bed - had a good night sleep and feel so much better for it.
This morning we started our healthy routine. We went to the pool and did a few length's, and walked a few laps. It is much cooler today but still lovely and sunny. I think it suits me much better than the summer heat. We are planning a walk on the beach later - if good weather holds out. Think I need a quiet day.
Sunday, 13 October 2013
Day 87. I fly home today!
Well, it's 2.45am! I can't sleep. I am sat on the balcony writing this. I am deafened by the sound of crickets, the sky full of stars and the Caribbean Sea rolling onto the beach! Who would want to leave!
Part of me is so excited to be seeing my family, and part of me doesn't want this to end - as they say ' ' All good things must come to an end '. I am finishing off the champagne and eating up the treats from The Cafe' de Paris! ( think this is new Leah ). Clive's sugar was really high when he went to the doctor today - so that's my excuse to eat them!
I really should try to sleep, but I'm sure the nights at home will not be balmy enough to sit outside!
"Goodnight".
I still awoke early, even though I only managed to sleep for a couple of hours. We grab our towels and head to the beach. We put our towels on our loungers - seemed to have had the same two all week! Off we go to Stewfish for breakfast. Seymour sent us peanut porridge to eat! We shared a bowl - not very keen but he meant well! Clive has Brown Fish Stew with Festival. (fried dumplings) I had eggs Benedict - delicious! I love sitting there watching the sea and people on the beach.
We go and lay on the loungers for a while. I then go to get ready and send my cases down for the bus this afternoon. I manage to get almost everything in my case! That's amazing! I am being collected at 3pm.
It's now 2pm. This could be my last blog!! I just want to say "Thank-you" to my family. They have supported me throughout my trip. I know this trip sounded crazy to most people! I just want to say to you all. - 'It's never too late' ! Live your life, believe in your dreams, BUT most of all, take action. Nothing can happen if we just sit and wait - never give up!
Looking back on these 89 days - 51 days in Ft Lauderdale, 3 in Vancouver, 28 on the cruise ship and finally 7 days in Jamaica!
A TRIP OF A LIFETIME! Goodbye. X
Part of me is so excited to be seeing my family, and part of me doesn't want this to end - as they say ' ' All good things must come to an end '. I am finishing off the champagne and eating up the treats from The Cafe' de Paris! ( think this is new Leah ). Clive's sugar was really high when he went to the doctor today - so that's my excuse to eat them!
I really should try to sleep, but I'm sure the nights at home will not be balmy enough to sit outside!
"Goodnight".
I still awoke early, even though I only managed to sleep for a couple of hours. We grab our towels and head to the beach. We put our towels on our loungers - seemed to have had the same two all week! Off we go to Stewfish for breakfast. Seymour sent us peanut porridge to eat! We shared a bowl - not very keen but he meant well! Clive has Brown Fish Stew with Festival. (fried dumplings) I had eggs Benedict - delicious! I love sitting there watching the sea and people on the beach.
We go and lay on the loungers for a while. I then go to get ready and send my cases down for the bus this afternoon. I manage to get almost everything in my case! That's amazing! I am being collected at 3pm.
It's now 2pm. This could be my last blog!! I just want to say "Thank-you" to my family. They have supported me throughout my trip. I know this trip sounded crazy to most people! I just want to say to you all. - 'It's never too late' ! Live your life, believe in your dreams, BUT most of all, take action. Nothing can happen if we just sit and wait - never give up!
Looking back on these 89 days - 51 days in Ft Lauderdale, 3 in Vancouver, 28 on the cruise ship and finally 7 days in Jamaica!
A TRIP OF A LIFETIME! Goodbye. X
Day 86. One more day before I leave!
Poor Clive's ear is getting worse still. We get a taxi into Negril and go to the doctor. I can't believe our last day is spent going to the Doctors! I hope Clive's ear soon improves before he flies home. He get antibiotic 's and drops, so it should get better soon.
We sit at the beach and have Pizza - they are fantastic. I love the Jerk Chicken one! And I'm not a huge Pizza fan.
There are 3 weddings here today! It's so hot - even the Jamaican people at the wedding are fanning themselves. The brides all look lovely but must find this weather hard to cope with.
Clive has gone to meet Rocky, he runs the car company that did our tours. They had wanted to chat. I thought I could get myself packed. I really cannot believe this trip is almost over. It has been amazing. I am so lucky to have met Clive. We have got on so well travelling together.
I am also, so looking forward to seeing my family! I imagine the grandchildren will have all grown up- especially Cleo! I so look forward to meeting her. All the children look so wonderful when I FaceTime them.
Well, last night here for me!
We sit at the beach and have Pizza - they are fantastic. I love the Jerk Chicken one! And I'm not a huge Pizza fan.
There are 3 weddings here today! It's so hot - even the Jamaican people at the wedding are fanning themselves. The brides all look lovely but must find this weather hard to cope with.
Clive has gone to meet Rocky, he runs the car company that did our tours. They had wanted to chat. I thought I could get myself packed. I really cannot believe this trip is almost over. It has been amazing. I am so lucky to have met Clive. We have got on so well travelling together.
I am also, so looking forward to seeing my family! I imagine the grandchildren will have all grown up- especially Cleo! I so look forward to meeting her. All the children look so wonderful when I FaceTime them.
Well, last night here for me!
Saturday, 12 October 2013
Day 85. Snorkelling at Beaches!
I had persuaded Clive to give the snorkelling a try! We have booked for 9.30am, before it gets too hot. We go to the Jamaican beach restaurant for breakfast. Then off to get kitted out for the snorkelling. I can see that Clive is nervous, he is telling the guy he can't swim well and can't float. We are given life belts to wear, he is more reassured.
We sail out to Middle Reef. The water is so clear and warm. We get in, I can see he is panicking. The guy gives him a life ring to hold and I stay with him. He really enjoys it - we both have a great time. There is an old anchor and canon under the water. We see wonderful coloured fish and hold a sea urchin and a star fish. The undersea world is so amazing!
Clive's ear ache is getting worse - probably the salt water! We see the nurse and have to see the Doctor in the morning. We are going into the town as they would charge $200 to come out! He is going for Jamaican rate!
Yesterday I saw my first Humming Bird - Jamaica's national bird. They are so tiny and pretty. I tried to get a photo but I was too late!
We sail out to Middle Reef. The water is so clear and warm. We get in, I can see he is panicking. The guy gives him a life ring to hold and I stay with him. He really enjoys it - we both have a great time. There is an old anchor and canon under the water. We see wonderful coloured fish and hold a sea urchin and a star fish. The undersea world is so amazing!
Clive's ear ache is getting worse - probably the salt water! We see the nurse and have to see the Doctor in the morning. We are going into the town as they would charge $200 to come out! He is going for Jamaican rate!
Yesterday I saw my first Humming Bird - Jamaica's national bird. They are so tiny and pretty. I tried to get a photo but I was too late!
Friday, 11 October 2013
Day 84. A day at Beaches
We so need today. Just a day on the beach, under our palm sunshade - bliss.
Early in the morning Clive suggests a swim before breakfast. The sea was so lovely, we started talking to some lovely people and before we realised it was 11am! I had on no sunscreen! We missed breakfast - but no probs, Clive has found they sell 'Jamaican Patties' at one of the grills - he is very happy with that. They also have a Jamican food restaurant on the beach, so we will be off there for breakfast!- and possibly dinner also.
We have a lovely relaxing day. I catch up on the blog, Clive reads and they serve you drinks on the beach- what more do you need. We even eat our food on the beach. This is our life until I go home!
BBQ night. The beach is transformed into an open air restaurant. A stage is put up and the fun begins! The Montego Bay Marching Band. A parade of Sesamee Street Characters and children! We have a wonderful BBQ and fresh coconuts to drink. Fire dancers and Limbo. A great night. I can see why Leah and family loved it here. Certainly will give it a good review on Trip Advisor!
Early in the morning Clive suggests a swim before breakfast. The sea was so lovely, we started talking to some lovely people and before we realised it was 11am! I had on no sunscreen! We missed breakfast - but no probs, Clive has found they sell 'Jamaican Patties' at one of the grills - he is very happy with that. They also have a Jamican food restaurant on the beach, so we will be off there for breakfast!- and possibly dinner also.
We have a lovely relaxing day. I catch up on the blog, Clive reads and they serve you drinks on the beach- what more do you need. We even eat our food on the beach. This is our life until I go home!
BBQ night. The beach is transformed into an open air restaurant. A stage is put up and the fun begins! The Montego Bay Marching Band. A parade of Sesamee Street Characters and children! We have a wonderful BBQ and fresh coconuts to drink. Fire dancers and Limbo. A great night. I can see why Leah and family loved it here. Certainly will give it a good review on Trip Advisor!
Day 83 Dunns River Falls.
It was along day yesterday. The thought of almost three hours drive was not great. We were off at 8am to Dunns River Falls.
The journey ends up being not too bad. It was also ' so ' worth it! A day to remember!
We climb over 900ft up this fast flowing fall. We make a human chain and climb as a group. Clive 'decided' to join me - he loved it. He threw himself backwards into the lake and slid over the falls -not me! What ever they said to try, he did. It was fantastic. I think we were the oldest ones climbing, but we did good man! See getting into the Jamaican way!
There was also a fab beach, so after the climb we went on the beach and Clive stood under the falls for ages - he really enjoyed the day, and so did I !
We get back about 6pm. Tired but feeling really pleased with myself! You need to push yourself, it makes you feel so alive!
Thanks Clive for a wonderful day!
Day 82. Black River Safari and the Pelican Bar
We awoke early. 'Lets go on the beach' I say! We walk in the sea at 6.30am. Warm and so blue!.
This is paradise!
We grab a quick breakfast and our driver comes. Off to The Black River we go. It's a great trip. We go onto this river in a large covered Catamaran. We go up the river and see crocodile's! It's surreal! They call them and throw in chicken and they come swimming up. The guide actually hold the croc on the snout - glad its not me having to touch the croc. We also see some lovely birds - white and blue crane.
We then go to YS Falls. These are stunning and the gardens so lovely and natural. Clive swims in the natural pool - we have no extra clothes! What a great place.
Last, but certainly not least. We go to The Pelican Bar. ( google it!). It's a wooden hut built in the sea. You have to go by boat to get there. You probably can imagine, we are in the sea, in Jamaica! No cops around here! So you can buy a beer and of course ,Ganja! We stay for about half an hour. I think it's more of a surprise to Clive than me. I guessed they would be smoking out there when I driver said ' have a good time', with a smile. He was laughing when we got back.
He's a young guy called Dwain. He's a good driver.
What a great day! Clive has done good again.
This is paradise!
We grab a quick breakfast and our driver comes. Off to The Black River we go. It's a great trip. We go onto this river in a large covered Catamaran. We go up the river and see crocodile's! It's surreal! They call them and throw in chicken and they come swimming up. The guide actually hold the croc on the snout - glad its not me having to touch the croc. We also see some lovely birds - white and blue crane.
We then go to YS Falls. These are stunning and the gardens so lovely and natural. Clive swims in the natural pool - we have no extra clothes! What a great place.
Last, but certainly not least. We go to The Pelican Bar. ( google it!). It's a wooden hut built in the sea. You have to go by boat to get there. You probably can imagine, we are in the sea, in Jamaica! No cops around here! So you can buy a beer and of course ,Ganja! We stay for about half an hour. I think it's more of a surprise to Clive than me. I guessed they would be smoking out there when I driver said ' have a good time', with a smile. He was laughing when we got back.
He's a young guy called Dwain. He's a good driver.
What a great day! Clive has done good again.
Day 81. JAMAICA!
We wake this morning in Jamaica! Ocho Rios - the sun is shining and the Caribbean Sea so blue!
We have immigration at 7.30 am, so early start. All goes well. Clive has booked one last tour from the cruise ship. Off we go - its River Rafting at Martha Brae Falls, it sounds like great fun!
It is. We arrive at a fast rapid area. There are bamboo rafts with a seat on, and a barefoot Jamaican with a bamboo pole ( bit like a Gondolier - only in some cases a Rasta Man). We have to wear life jackets, and onboard we clamber. It's brilliant! We set off down the Falls, quite fast at first, then settling into a lovely relaxing river ride. A young guy throws a model of the raft to us. He says $5, of course I buy it. He meets us further down and swims out to get his money - it's crazy! Our rafter chats away to Clive - the Jamaican Patwa gets going, and I can hardly understand them. Clive loves the reminiscing! It's such a lovely trip.
Back to the ship, collect our things and say goodbye to lots of people - we had a great time. Our taxi meets us and off we go to Negril - almost 3 hours.
We arrive at the hotel only to be told its closed and we are transferred to Sandals - Beaches Hotel. We were disappointed but as its turned out, our Hotel is fab and the staff are probably the best I have ever had in an hotel! (Everything happens for a reason!)
We are tired, so have dinner and get some much needed rest. Dunns River Falls tomorrow - I'm going to climb them. Clive not so sure yet. We will see!!!
We have immigration at 7.30 am, so early start. All goes well. Clive has booked one last tour from the cruise ship. Off we go - its River Rafting at Martha Brae Falls, it sounds like great fun!
It is. We arrive at a fast rapid area. There are bamboo rafts with a seat on, and a barefoot Jamaican with a bamboo pole ( bit like a Gondolier - only in some cases a Rasta Man). We have to wear life jackets, and onboard we clamber. It's brilliant! We set off down the Falls, quite fast at first, then settling into a lovely relaxing river ride. A young guy throws a model of the raft to us. He says $5, of course I buy it. He meets us further down and swims out to get his money - it's crazy! Our rafter chats away to Clive - the Jamaican Patwa gets going, and I can hardly understand them. Clive loves the reminiscing! It's such a lovely trip.
Back to the ship, collect our things and say goodbye to lots of people - we had a great time. Our taxi meets us and off we go to Negril - almost 3 hours.
We arrive at the hotel only to be told its closed and we are transferred to Sandals - Beaches Hotel. We were disappointed but as its turned out, our Hotel is fab and the staff are probably the best I have ever had in an hotel! (Everything happens for a reason!)
We are tired, so have dinner and get some much needed rest. Dunns River Falls tomorrow - I'm going to climb them. Clive not so sure yet. We will see!!!
Thursday, 10 October 2013
Day 80. Last day at sea!
Only one day and then Jamaica!
We both feel quite sad the cruise is almost over. We both also look forward to our arriving in Jamaica. We cannot believe my 89 days are almost over! We almost feel the ships cabin is home and the crew call us part of the crew. They have been great and we have made some good friends.
Lots of packing and sorting out to do. Not sure I will get all my things home!
Sad day but also ready for my new adventure in Jamaica!
We both feel quite sad the cruise is almost over. We both also look forward to our arriving in Jamaica. We cannot believe my 89 days are almost over! We almost feel the ships cabin is home and the crew call us part of the crew. They have been great and we have made some good friends.
Lots of packing and sorting out to do. Not sure I will get all my things home!
Sad day but also ready for my new adventure in Jamaica!
Day 79. Cartagena Colombia!
What delight has Clive booked for today! I still don't know what tour I'm going on each day -I've really enjoyed the surprise every trip. He chosen some great tours.
Wow! This is going to be a good one! The Party Tour Bus! An open sided bus with a band and alcohol! Clive had said I would really enjoy this one!
We get on board - four in a row. 1 bottle of white rum, one bottle of coke and a bucket of ice per row! When you finish any of them, you just pass it forward and it's replaced - it's going to fun I know! The band start to play and we have to sing and get up and dance - it's great fun. We also see some of the sights there. We get off and dance in the street. I had bought some Maracas from a street vendor, whilst we were on the bus. Clive had thought it a mad idea, but when the bus stopped and we were dancing in the street, he wanted to get them out of my bag and play them - he had so much fun. Other people started to buy them from street vendors - it was just crazy! We drank so much and made so much noise.
When we got back to the ship, I didn't really remember walking to our room! I felt so ill! That will teach me - Clive had drunk the same as me and was fine! He was very kind but I think it amused him!
Great day - if a little crazy!
Wow! This is going to be a good one! The Party Tour Bus! An open sided bus with a band and alcohol! Clive had said I would really enjoy this one!
We get on board - four in a row. 1 bottle of white rum, one bottle of coke and a bucket of ice per row! When you finish any of them, you just pass it forward and it's replaced - it's going to fun I know! The band start to play and we have to sing and get up and dance - it's great fun. We also see some of the sights there. We get off and dance in the street. I had bought some Maracas from a street vendor, whilst we were on the bus. Clive had thought it a mad idea, but when the bus stopped and we were dancing in the street, he wanted to get them out of my bag and play them - he had so much fun. Other people started to buy them from street vendors - it was just crazy! We drank so much and made so much noise.
When we got back to the ship, I didn't really remember walking to our room! I felt so ill! That will teach me - Clive had drunk the same as me and was fine! He was very kind but I think it amused him!
Great day - if a little crazy!
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