Some New Travel Deals for February…Thinking some Valentine Fun?

It is travel planning time for me.  I love staying in January and getting organized and pulling together my plans for the next year or two (thinking about Asian with Bob in 2024).  As I am cruising around some of my favorite travel websites and some new ones, I am always looking for a good deal that will make more travel possible.  I am a huge fan of Go Today Travel, Gate 1, and Groupon.  I have used them for years and they have always worked well for me.  These sites have great package sites that get you to where you want to go and allow for more travel.  Take a look around and see what you can find!

One of my favorite travel sites which I have used a few times is Go Today Travel.  It is easy to use and usually has some great deals,  All documents are electronic and they have great customer service.  Currently, they have several and here are a few highlights!

$1,049*

London vacation

$999*

Athens vacation

$1,199*

Ireland vacation

✈ 3- or 6-Night All-Inclusive Cancún Bay Resort Stay with Air from Travel by Jen – Cancun

Cancun

What You Get

View local health guidelines for travel here

How to Book

  • Each person must buy a voucher; price is based on two people traveling together and sharing a room. Additional fee to travel solo.
  • Choose your package from the drop-down menu.
  • After purchasing this deal, follow the instructions on your voucher to book your trip with Travel by Jen no later than 2/17/23.

Know Before You Go

  • Additional fees to travel solo:
    • 3-night stay: $229
    • 6-night stay: $459
  • Additional taxes & fees: Hotel transfer ($29 round-trip/person) not included.
  • A passport is required for all travel outside the U.S.
  • Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of travel, and contain at least two blank visa pages.
  • Before international travel, always check the State Department’s website for important info on the destination and its entry/exit requirements.
  • Official language: None, but Spanish is widely spoken
  • Currency: Mexican peso

Image 1: ✈ 5-Day Iceland Vacation with Air from Gate 1 Travel

✈ 5-Day Iceland Vacation with Hotels and Air from Gate 1 Travel – Reykjavik

Reykjavik

What You Get

View local health guidelines for travel here

How to Book

  • Each person must buy a voucher; price is based on two people traveling together and sharing a room. Additional fee to travel solo.
  • Choose your package from the drop-down menu.
  • After purchasing this deal, follow the instructions on your voucher to book your trip with Gate 1 Travel no later than 2/2/23.

Know Before You Go

  • Additional fees to travel solo:
    • Stay at Hotel Cabin or Hotel Klettur: $250
    • Stay at Centerhotel Arnarhvoll or Centerhotel Plaza: $350
    • Stay at Centerhotel Midgardur or Grandi by Center Hotels: $350
  • Additional taxes & fees: Breakfast on day 2, transfers, optional tours, and gratuities not included.
  • Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 is required in order to travel with Gate 1 Travel.
  • A passport is required for all travel outside the U.S.
  • Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of travel, and contain at least two blank visa pages.
  • Before international travel, always check the State Department’s website for important info on the destination and its entry/exit requirements.
  • Official languages: Icelandic
  • Currency: Icelandic króna
  • Drive on the right side of the road

Image 1: ✈ 8-Day Paris and Barcelona Vacation with Air from Gate 1 Travel

✈ 8-Day Paris and Barcelona Vacation with Hotels and Air from Gate 1 Travel – France & Spain

Multiple Locations

What You Get

View local health guidelines for travel here

How to Book

  • Each person must buy a voucher; price is based on two people traveling together and sharing a room. Additional fee to travel solo.
  • Choose your package from the drop-down menu.
  • After purchasing this deal, follow the instructions on your voucher to book your trip with Gate 1 Travel no later than 2/7/23.

Know Before You Go

  • Additional fees to travel solo: $350
  • Additional taxes & fees: Transfers, optional tours, and gratuities not included.
  • Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 is required in order to travel with Gate 1 Travel.
  • A passport is required for all travel outside the U.S.
  • Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of travel, and contain at least two blank visa pages.
  • Before international travel, always check the State Department’s website for important info on the destination and its entry/exit requirements.
  • Official language: French (Paris) and Spanish (Barcelona)
  • Currency: Euro

Beware! Here are some of the most dangerous travel destination around the World

After looking at recent events in Peru, I began a search of some other places that I should kick off my planning list.  I have working on some travel planning since I did very little the later part of 2022.  currently, the US State Department has identified Burma, China, Iran, Venezuela, North Korea and Russia as do not travel location for US citizens.  here just a few of the places around the world that carry the moniker of most dangerous..

  • St. Louis, Missouri USA-  This city has the highest crime rate in the US
  • Port au Prince, Haiti – kidnapping, social unrest and violence sum up the dangers of this city.
  • Bikini Atoll, Marshall Islands – Due to nuclear testing, these island are radioactive
  • Death Valley, USA – This is one of the hottest place on earth where a record setting 134 degrees temperature was recorded.
  • Mount Washington, USA – This is one of the most dangerous peaks due the winds and freezing temperatures
  • Mount Everest, Nepal – This mountain has claimed the lives of 310 people.
  • Snake Island, Brazil – This is the location of one of the ost venomous snakes in the world, the Golden Lancehead Vipers.  There are 5 snakes per square meter.
  • Tallinn, Estonia-The city is considered the most dangerous in Europe
  • Acapulco, Mexico- This the most dangerous cities in North America.
  • Yucatan Cenotes, Mexico-Thi si one of the most treacherous dives due to darkness, limited space, vegetation hindering movement, disorientation, lack of a clear idea of the final goal and duration of the dive, and, consequently, lack of oxygen.
  • Fagradalsfjall, Iceland- This city os the home to Iceland’s volcano and lava fields which has cause burns and toxic gas poisoning.
  • El Caminito Del Rey, Spain-These mountain trails are some of the most extreme in the world.
  • Blue Hole, Egypt- This is a vertical underwater cave approximately 120 meters and has claimed approximately 150 divers int eh last 20 years.

I was surprised at how many places are considered dangerous.  If you really want to try some of these spots, plese be careful.  Do your research and understand what you are getting into.  Sometimes there is just no turning back.

References

25 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe

The 17 Most Dangerous Tourist Destinations In The World

 

Travel Update and Alert: Machu Pichu and the Incan Trail Closing Indefinately

On January 21, 2023, The Peruvian government as indefinitely shut down Machu Pich and the Incan Trail.  The closures are due to civil unrest based on anti-government protests.  The closing to ensure the safety of tourists after 417 visitors to the ancient site were unable to get out.

On December 17, the government set up emergency trains from Machu Pichu to Cuzco where evacuees were able to leave via the airport and the Embassy.  The regular train to Machu Pichu ceased operations on December 15, 2022 due to the demonstrations.  Helicopter were also ordered to evacuate the most vulnerable.

Protest began November 2022 after then-President Pedro Castillo was impeached and imprisoned  for or trying to dissolve Congress.

Philly’s Theatre Week: A look ahead

I love the theater and it’s definitely one of my passions. It has been quite a while since I’ve gone regularly. The pandemic curbed a lot of that activity. We slowly started engaging back into the theater with a few trips to the Walnut Street Theater since I kept my season tickets there. In November of 2021, we were able to see Hamilton and then this summer we saw To Kill a Mockingbird here in Philadelphia and I saw Tina with another friend.  There were a few other shows, too.   We’re slowly getting back into full swing.

While driving into the city, the bestie began scrolling on her phone which knew this would cost me and it did. We decided at that point in time we would split a package at the Kimmel. Definitely one of the best ideas we had. We took a look at the shows and made some decisions.  Mine are Come From Away and Six.  I think I will be exchanging Come From Away for 1776.

          Blue Man Group 

          Come From Away

          Six

          Moulin Rouge

          The Lion King

But, I digress. Philly theater is good. Also, we’re only 2 hours from New York City which adds another layer to our theater going.  One great way to theater in Philadelphia is through Theatre Week.  There are free performances as well as $15 and $30 tickets.  It’s a great chance to catch some great productions for a fraction of the regular cost.  Check it out!

Theatre Philadelphia

Save the Date!

The 6th Annual Philly Theatre Week

March 23 – April 2

Theatre Philadelphia hosts Philly Theatre Week: a 10-day celebration of the artists, organizations, and audiences that have made Greater Philadelphia one of the most vibrant theatre regions in the nation. Audiences will have an opportunity to try something new from our theatre community through a series of productions, readings, interactive events, and much more!

Cabaret at Bristol Riverside Theatre

Cabaret

Mar 21 – Apr 16 2023

Disney's Frozen Jr

Disney’s Frozen JR.

Apr 15 – May 7 2023

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Feb 14 – Mar 12 2023

Cruise Travel Updates: Covid, Testing and What’s Next

I have learned to like cruises.  My SO and I found it relaxing a great way to travel around.  One of the most harrowing part of our trip was the Covid test.  We took a month long trip to Europe and part of it was on Norwegian. We needed our vaccinations at least two weeks prior, which we had and a test that is conducted 72 hours prior to embarkation.  On the Thursday before, he went to CVS on one side of town and I went to another on the other side of town.  He received his results on Saturday and I received mine the Tuesday after we left.  Yes, you read that right.

It was nerve wracking experience.  I would call, check the text update and the portal. I was so worried that 2AM Sunday morning, I remembered that I had a Quest Lab account and logged in.  Lo and behold, there it was.  I was so relieved that I even printed it from my bed.  Throughout Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, I received texts that my results were not back yet.  What if I hadn’t had another way of getting my results? What about those who didn’t ask what lab their test was go to?  Yeah, not fun.

The Covid requirements took longer to leave the cruise industry, but it looks like Covid restrictions have loosened.  Currently, most cruise line want up-to-date vaccines, since there are boosters available.  The vaccines are usually needed 15 days prior to embarkation.  Always, make sure you check the cruiseline and the country you are going to for the most current information. The Points Guy listed the cruiseline and their currents protocols as of the end of August and here they are.

AmaWaterways

Vaccine required? Yes

AmaWaterways is requiring proof of vaccination for all passengers, including children 5 and older, until further notice. Passengers will be asked to upload proof of vaccination no later than 21 days prior to beginning travel and have proof available at embarkation. An exemption process is in place that will allow a small number of Unvaccinated passengers to sail, but the line boasts vaccination rates approaching 100% in an attempt to comply with rules for all countries their ships visit. Only those who are not vaccinated will be required to provide negative results from an antigen or PCR test no more than 48 hours old.

American Cruise Lines

Vaccine required? No

American Cruise Lines does not have an across-the-board vaccine requirement for all passengers on all sailings. However, cruisers on some itineraries in specific regions or over specific time periods may be required to be vaccinated. Pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

American Queen Voyages

Vaccine required? Yes

Vaccines are required for all passengers until further notice, and proof must be provided prior to boarding. Pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

Related: What happens if someone tests positive for COVID-19 on your cruise

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Vaccine required? Yes

COVID-19 shots are compulsory for all passengers cruising with Atlas, with proof of inoculation required before embarkation. The line doesn’t allow kids younger than 8 years old to sail, so young-child exemptions aren’t a factor. Passengers must also present negative results from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 24 hours before embarkation for antigen tests and no more than 72 hours prior for PCR.

Avalon Waterways

Vaccine required? Yes

All passengers must show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination to sail. Testing requirements vary by country.

Azamara

Vaccine required? Sometimes

Through November 30, 2022, all passengers, ages 12 and older, must be inoculated to cruise with Azamara, and proof is required. All passengers eligible to receive boosters are also required to have at least one. Azamara does not require negative test results in order to board unless mandated by local governments in the ports where the line’s ships sail. Beginning December 1, 2022, the line will waive vaccination requirements for all passengers on Europe and Caribbean itineraries, except where required by local regulations.

Carnival Cruise Line

Vaccine required? Sometimes

Beginning September 6, 2022, Carnival will allow Unvaccinated passengers to sail on voyages of fewer than 16 nights without requesting exemptions. Testing requirements have also been waived for vaccinated cruisers on voyages of fewer than 16 nights. Guests who have not had their shots will still have to test prior to embarkation and show negative results no more than 72 hours old. unproctored antigen test results are now accepted for all passengers when testing is required, except on long cruises, where tests will still have to be proctored. Other exceptions to these waivers include sailings that call on or sail to/from Australia, Bermuda, Canada and Greece. Passengers on cruises of 16 nights or more who are eligible for boosters must have received them.

Celebrity Cruises

Vaccine required? Sometimes

Starting September 5, 2022, Celebrity will allow everyone to sail from most ports on most itineraries, regardless of vaccination status, as long as they meet local testing requirements. Fully vaccinated passengers no longer need to test for sailings from the U.S. that are nine nights or fewer (except those visiting Bermuda or Canada); longer sailings require tests taken within three days of departure. Unvaccinated children ages 5 and younger do not need to test on sailings from the U.S. (again, Bermuda and Canada cruises are the exceptions); on voyages from Europe, Unvaccinated passengers 12 and younger do not need to test.

Where local regulations require testing, Celebrity will simply require travelers to provide negative results from any publicly available test, including unproctored antigen tests (except on sailings that visit Australia, Bermuda, Canada, Greece or New Zealand, where proctored tests are needed).

The major exceptions to these policies are ocean crossings. Passengers booked on those sailings will need to provide proof of vaccination and show negative results from a proctored test taken no more than two days prior to embarkation day.

Celestyal Cruises

Vaccine required? Yes

Celestyal requires all passengers 12 and older to show that they have received a full course of inoculation via one of the WHO-approved shots. In lieu of proof of vaccination, cruisers may show a certificate of recovery not more than six months old. Booster shots are required for anyone 18 or older who had their final initial dose more than nine months prior to their sailing date. Given that Celestyal operates out of Greece, which still has stringent protocols, all passengers will be required to provide negative results from a PCR test no more than 72 hours old. They will also be required to undergo a rapid antigen test at the pier on embarkation day.

Cunard Line

Vaccine required? Yes

All Cunard passengers, regardless of age, must be fully vaccinated and provide proof before boarding. Additionally, all passengers who received their final initial dose more than 270 days prior to boarding must also have received — and show proof of — a booster shot. Pre-cruise testing has been waived for vaccinated cruisers on most itineraries. Exclusions include voyages of 16 nights or more; itineraries that the line labels as “complex”; and sailings that begin in, end in or visit Australia, Canada and other countries with testing requirements.

Disney Cruise Line

Vaccine required? Yes

Beginning September 2, 2022, Disney Cruise Line requires all passengers 12 and older to provide proof of full inoculation as a condition of sailing. Through September 22, 2022, cruisers who have their shots will have to provide negative results from a PCR or proctored antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before embarkation; Unvaccinated guests must provide negative results from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to boarding and take a second test at the pier before boarding. Beginning September 23, 2022 (November 7, 2022, for Disney Magic), fully vaccinated passengers will no longer have to provide negative test results in order to sail, and passengers who don’t have their shots will no longer be required to undergo a second test at the pier.

Emerald Cruises

Vaccine required? Yes

COVID-19 shots are a requirement for all travelers, regardless of age, who are cruising with Emerald. Passengers must be current, which means if they’re eligible for boosters, they must have received them. Testing will be required in line with the rules of the countries from which Emerald’s vessels depart.

Grand Circle Cruise Line

Vaccine required? Yes

Grand Circle has mandated that all passengers must be fully vaccinated as a condition of carriage. Boosters are also required. Proof must be provided, preferably in the form of an original vaccine card. Pre-cruise testing might be required, depending on your port of embarkation. (The line will send you that information prior to your sailing.)

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Vaccine required? Yes

Until further notice, Hapag-Lloyd voyages are only available to fully vaccinated passengers 12 and older. Additionally, all eligible passengers 12 and older must have their booster shots in order to sail. Testing requirements default to the rules of the area where the embarkation port is located. The line will send passengers further details.

Holland America

Vaccine required? Sometimes

Holland America now allows Unvaccinated passengers to sail on cruises of 15 nights or fewer without filing exemption requests, and they no longer need to provide negative results from a COVID-19 test. Exceptions include long cruises and sailings that call on or sail to/from Australia, Bermuda, Canada and Greece, where vaccines and testing are likely to be necessary. Passengers on cruises of 16 nights or more who are eligible for boosters must have received them.

Hurtigruten

Vaccine required? Yes

Per Norway’s regulations, Norwegian coastal voyages do not list vaccination as a requirement for boarding. For other Hurtigruten sailings, rules vary according to departure region. To and from the United States, cruisers 5 and older must be fully vaccinated. For Galapagos sailings, all travelers 3 and older must show proof of vaccination. For all other areas, guests 12 and older must be inoculated, with passengers 5 to 11 years old showing proof of at least one shot. Passengers 18 and older who received their final vaccine dose more than 270 days prior to sailing must also show proof of a booster. Testing requirements vary by location.

Lindblad Expeditions

Vaccine required? Yes

Beginning September 1, 2022, passengers younger than 5 years old will no longer need to be vaccinated. Boosters also are no longer required for passengers of any age, except on longer voyages, including those to Antarctica. Beginning October 1, 2022, pre-cruise testing is no longer required, including at embarkation. Exceptions might apply for departures from certain destinations.

MSC Cruises

Vaccine required? Sometimes

Effective September 1, 2022, U.S. passengers sailing with MSC Cruises are no longer required to be vaccinated before sailing to the Caribbean or Bahamas. Fully vaccinated travelers will still be required to show proof of inoculation at embarkation, and those who are Unvaccinated will need to provide a negative PCR test result that’s no more than three days old. Fully vaccinated cruisers will not have to test prior to sailing. Travelers 12 and older from countries outside the U.S. will still need to be fully immunized, and all passengers 2 and older, regardless of vaccination status, will still need to provide negative test results before embarking.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Vaccine required? No

In early August 2022, Norwegian Cruise Line became the first major cruise line to say it would roll back vaccine requirements. From September 3, 2022, passengers will not have to provide proof of vaccination. Those 12 and older who do provide it will be exempt from pre-cruise testing. Those who do not will need to provide proof of negative antigen or PCR test results that are no more than 72 hours old. Cruisers 11 and younger are exempt from both providing proof of vaccination and from testing. Beginning Oct. 4, 2022, the line will no longer require testing for cruisers who don’t show proof of vaccination.

Oceania Cruises

Vaccine required? No

Beginning September 3, 2022, passengers on Oceania voyages will not have to provide vaccine documentation in order to sail. Those 12 and older who do show proof will be exempt from pre-cruise testing. Those who do not will need to provide proof of negative antigen or PCR test results that are no more than 72 hours old. Children 11 and younger are exempt from both immunization and testing.

P&O Cruises

Vaccine required? Yes

Everyone 12 and older on all P&O Cruises sailings must show proof of full vaccination. Children 11 and younger can sail with either full vaccination or additional pre-cruise testing. Anyone 16 or older whose final dose was more than 270 days from the conclusion of their scheduled sailing must also show proof of a booster.

Ponant

Vaccine required? No

Ponant‘s website simply says that “when you visit certain destinations, vaccines can be recommended.” The line also says it will alert passengers to their specific requirements after they have booked a voyage. Testing information was not immediately available.

Princess Cruises

Vaccine required? Sometimes

Beginning September 6, 2022, Princess passengers on voyages of 15 nights or fewer will no longer be required to be vaccinated in order to sail. Unvaccinated cruisers will need to self-test no more than three days prior to embarkation and show proof of negative results. Travelers who show their vaccine cards will be exempt from testing. Exceptions include Panama Canal transits, ocean crossings and other specialty voyages. On sailings of 16 nights or more, passengers will need to show proof of vaccination, and proctored testing is required for all passengers, regardless of immunization status.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Vaccine required? No

Starting September 3, 2022, passengers on Regent cruises will no longer have to provide vaccine documentation in order to sail. Those 12 and older who do show proof will be exempt from pre-cruise testing. Those who do not will need to provide proof of negative antigen or PCR test results that are no more than 72 hours old. Children 11 and younger are exempt from both inoculation and testing protocols.

Royal Caribbean

Vaccine required? Sometimes

Of the major cruise lines, Royal Caribbean has issued some of the most confusing protocol changes to date. Starting September 5, 2022, all guests can sail, regardless of vaccination status. Unvaccinated passengers can cruise with negative results from any commercially available test, including self-tests. No testing is required for vaccinated passengers on voyages of nine nights or fewer. On sailings of 10 nights or more, all travelers must provide negative results from any test taken within three days of embarkation. For all sailings, passengers 5 years and younger have no vaccine or testing requirements. (Due to local regulations, sailings that visit Australia, Bermuda, Canada and Singapore still require passengers to be vaccinated.)

Saga Cruises

Vaccine required? Yes

Saga requires vaccinations for all passengers unless an official medical exemption is provided and approved prior to sailing. Children are never allowed to travel with the line, which caters only to cruisers 50 and older (and travel companions who are at least 40 years old), making age-related exceptions irrelevant. For the line’s river cruises, passengers who are eligible must also show proof of a booster shot. The line will test passengers at the embarkation port, but recommend that guests test at home prior to travel.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Vaccine required? Yes

Passengers embarking on river and ocean voyages with Scenic will need to be fully immunized prior to sailing. Boosters will be required if all countries on an itinerary require them. Otherwise, passengers will be allowed to embark with only their initial doses. Proctored testing is still required in some countries and will be provided by the line pre-cruise.

Seabourn

Vaccine required? No

From September 6, 2022, Seabourn cruisers will only need to show vaccination proof if they want to avoid pre-cruise testing. Anyone who does not produce a vaccination card will need to show negative results from either a self-test or a proctored test taken no more than 72 hours before embarkation.

Silversea

Vaccine required? No

Effective September 5, 2022, Silversea will not require shots for its passengers. Cruisers who are not fully vaccinated or who are unable to show proof of their shots at embarkation will be required to provide negative results from a proctored antigen or PCR test taken in the 72 hours prior to boarding. Fully vaccinated travelers are no longer mandated to test prior to sailing. Policy exceptions include sailings from countries that still require vaccination and testing.

Star Clippers

Vaccine required? No

Effective on Royal Clipper beginning November 5, Star Clipper November 19 and Star Flyer November 26, Star Clippers will no longer require passengers to be vaccinated in order to sail. However, cruisers who do not provide proof that they are inoculated must show negative results from a proctored antigen test no more than 48 hours old or a proctored PCR test no more than 72 hours old.

Tauck

Vaccine required? Yes

Until further notice, all Tauck travelers 12 and older will have to show proof of full vaccination in order to set sail on a voyage with the brand. They must also be up to date on their shots, meaning they’ve been boosted if their final initial dose was more than 270 days prior to the voyage. In lieu of a booster, a passenger may show a certificate of recovery no more than 180 days old. Children younger than 12 who are either Unvaccinated or not boosted must submit negative PCR test results that are no more than three days old in order to board. Additional testing might be required, based on guidelines of individual countries visited.

UnCruise Adventures

Vaccine required? Yes

All UnCruise passengers are required to have all applicable doses of an approved vaccine before they can sail. Medical and religious exemptions are not allowed. Booster shots are also mandatory for all eligible passengers. Although pre-cruise testing is not required, the line recommends passengers test themselves before leaving home to avoid potentially carrying the virus on their travels.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Vaccine required? Yes

All passengers eligible to be vaccinated must be inoculated in order to cruise with Uniworld. Testing requirements are determined by the countries the ships visit; check the protocols for the places on your itinerary for the most up-to-date information.

Viking

Vaccine required? Yes

All Viking passengers, whether on a river sailing or an ocean voyage, must be fully vaccinated, and although boosters are not required by the line, they are required by some countries that its ships visit. Testing requirements vary by country and departure port; most sailings on Viking Orion out of the U.S. and Canada require testing for all passengers.

Virgin Voyages

Vaccine required? Yes

Beginning September 18, 2022, on Valiant Lady and September 21, 2022, on Scarlet Lady, Virgin Voyages will allow everyone to sail, regardless of vaccination status. (Virgin is a child-free line, so exemptions are not based on age.) Virgin has eliminated testing requirements for passengers who are inoculated; anyone who does not provide proof of their shots will have to provide a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 72 hours before embarkation. Alternatively, Unvaccinated travelers can pay $75 to be tested at the port on the day of boarding.

Windstar Cruises

Vaccine required? Yes

Windstar is mandating shots for all passengers until further notice, with proof required before setting sail. The line notes that passengers also could be required to be boosted in certain countries. Effective September 6, 2022, Windstar is dropping its pre-cruise testing requirements, except in countries — including Canada, Greece, Australia and New Zealand — that still require tests.

Japanese at it’s finest. Morimoto Philadelphia does it right.

I love a really good restaurant and Philadelphia doesn’t dissappoint when it comes to finding somewhere wonderful to dine.  I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying such places as Oloroso, Talulah’s Garden,  Vedge, Little Nonnas, Parc, and so on.  Some have been pricey and some have not.  I love diners (boy, do I LOVE a good diner), holes-in-the wall, fine dining, and casual,  There are so many wonderful places in the World and right around the corner.  I collect recommendations like some people collect travel souvenirs.  It’s not just about the food but about the company and the experience.

Morimoto is on 723 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia.  The location is within walking distance from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.  It is also a mile from the theatre.  Google Maps took us right there and lcukily there is parking 400 feet from the restaurants on 8th and Chestnut.  It has an understated street presence and we missed it the first time we walked by.  Honestly, I was looking the other way because I was reading a historial marker.  The sign is small and on the wall next to the doorway.  

The decor is modern and clean.  The undulating wall serves as art work and the wood ceiling serves as an understated back drop to the modern seating.  Contemporary lighting which cats a funky blue and red glow.  Even though the restaurant has been around since 2001, the interior does not feel dated or out of style.  The bar is upstairs and is just a sleek and modern.  I found it a comfortable place to dine

Morimoto is no exception to good Philly dining.  I recently attended a play at The Academy of Music and this was our choice.  The bestie and I love Asian cuisine and I am a fan of Iron Chef Morimoto.  I have watched him for 20 years on everything from Iron Chef Japan to Iron Chef America.  I must say that I fanned girl a little bit when we sat down.

The entrance to Morimoto is understated.  We actually walked past the 723 Chestnut Street location.  The decor is modern and clean.  The undulating wall serves as art work and the wood ceiling serves as an understated back drop to the modern seating.  Contemporary lighting which cats a funky blue and red glow.  Even though the restaurant has been around since 2001, the interior does not feel dated or out of style.  The bar is upstairs and is just a sleek and modern.  I found it a comfortable place to dine.

 

Let’s with the service.  Our waitress was incredibly good.  She was knowledgeable, straight forward, and attentive.  Everything I expect from this price point.  We asked several questions and never received a condescending or snide response.  We asked about the prefix meal called Omakase ($165 per person). And were told that it is a two hour set. Unfortunately, because of our tier tickets it would have been cut short. She did suggest such a hurry along the mail but we declined because we wanted to make sure that we enjoyed what was being offered. Another question, was about the sake on the menu. We were not familiar with the sake selection and with sake general, but she made sure that we received something that would not only complement what we were eating but was delightful.  She also offered a sampling (6oz??? nice size “sample”) to ensure that we would be happy with her suggestions.  Everything came out and a nice pace and was well served.

The menu is made to walk through the meal.  This food is meant to eat a reasonable pace so do leave a bit of time to enjoy the food here.  It is not an eat and run kind of restaurant.  Our waitress guided us on how to order and even made some suggestions.  There were only a few special drinks and a nice selection of wine and sake.  After perusing the menu, I knew we were in for a delightful meal and evening

The food was incredibly good and was made to eat slowly and savor. The meal began with a Heartbreak Hotel (Giffard lychee, Absolut Vanilla, Sparkling Rose, and lemon foam) for me and a Morimoto Martini (Belvedere, Junmai Sake, and cucumber) for my friend.  Nice way to start!  Mine was a sweet drink and hers was a dry one.

We started with the whitefish carpaccio and the toro tartare.  Moved on to the Wagyu dumplings.  Enjoyed the black cod miso and yellowtail ishi yaki bop and finished with sushi which was a crunch yellowtail and tuna.  I must say it was all excellent.  The only dish that we were not wowed with was the ishi yaki bop.  The table side presentation as you can see was lovely but it did not have the superior taste of the rest of the meal and we felt that it was just average compared to the other dishes.  My favorite was the cod and the carapaccio.  The quality of the seafood and the execution were exception.  It begged to be savored and we did.

We loved Morimoto Philadelphia.  Yes, this was a pricey meal.  We felt it was worth every penny given the service, quality and flavor.  Will we go back? Yes.  Will I recommend this place?  Yes.  Do I still fan girl over Morimoto?  Even more so.  Morimoto Philadelphia has earned it’s place on my list of a must go to in Philadelphia for fine dining.  Bon appetit!

Another Heartbreaking Goodbye For Our Family

We Christophers love our dogs and are committed for life.  Our beloved Rupert passed away at age 19 from cancer.  He was such a wonderful dog. He was the leader of the pack, a bed hog, and a very funny guy. We found him in a humane society as a four month old puppy and we immediately fell in love. We had him DNA tested because he confused us.  We found out that he was part mini poodle, Corgi and Dachshund.  We called him our designer dog the Dacoodle. He was bouncy, full of energy, and never missed the opening of a snack bag.  He was a gentle and sweet boy.

He lived to a ripe old age and was surrounded by those he loved when he passed away. Even to the end he was a happy guy and definitely loved by all. He will be sorely missed.

 

Those WTF Moments When Traveling….What Are Our Travel Disappointments?

We’ve all had them.  The “Been there.  Done that.  Not doing it again” trips or visits.  You have built something up so much that when you get there all you can do is draw a blank.  You are so stunned at what you are experiencing that you wonder where you went wrong with your planning.  You begin to second guess your self, the recommendations you have received, and the research you have done. I’ve had them and I truly like to look at it as a learning opportunity and a test of how I can make the best of a not so great situation.

Luckily, those total vacation long losses are few and far between and more than likely it can be salvaged.  I have found with me, it’s usually one aspect or site that has been a disappointment.  I try to have back up options or the phone handy for a search and a map.  I try to put the disappointment and anxiety at bay and look for something else to do.  

I took an informal survey of the kids and my friends and here are few of the sad experiences we have experienced while traveling.

 

Plymouth Rock  

It is a rock with the date on it in a hole in the ground which is situated under a gazebo. I am not saying to avoid Plymouth Rock.  I am not saying that it shouldn’t be a destination.  It should if you are in the area.  Luckily, there is so much to do in the area. 

 

Other places to consider: 

  • Boston or Cape Cod:  This depends upon what direction you want to go.  Cape Cod is about hanging around the water and relaxing.  Martha’s Vineyard is a beautiful island to kick back on the beach or you can amp it up with a hike or a cycle around the island.  Or you can take a drive up to Provincetown for whale watching and a strolls through the galleries and shops.  If you are looking for a historic trail and great museums then it’s Boston.  I highly recommend The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum it is a beautiful museum and the site of the only successful art heist in the US.  You can catch the documentary on Netflix: This Is a Robbery: The World’s Biggest Art Heist.  Another favorite of mine is Salem.  Interesting shops and museums abound.  Plymouth is a day trip from either location.
  • The Plimoth Plantation:  Bob and I found this treasure and we loved wandering around the plantation listening to the settlers explain life there. It’s a place where you can meander around and take in life as it was hundred of years ago.  The ghosts of the past linger here and I encourage you to go.

Pat’s and Geno’s

Tourist trap comes to mind when it comes to these two iconic Philadelphia rivals.  They are literally right across the street from each other and are synonymous with Philly cheesesteak.  However, they are not as good as some of the other cheesesteak establishments in Philly.  These rivals are across the street from each other and are very different.  Geno’s is flashy and Pat’s is old school.  Everyone has their favorites and it is a source of debate but I am putting in my tow cents in any way.  I prefer Pat’s…there I said it.  Geno’s meat was chewier and their sauce watery.  Pat’s is just a little better, in my opinion.

Other places to consider:

  • Dalessandro’s at 600 Wendover St, Philadelphia, PA 19128:  This spot opened in 1960 in the neighborhood of Roxborough.  It is right next door to one of my favorite areas, Manayunk.  If you want a great location for shops and food, it’s there.  Try Marciano’s, which was a favorite of Frank Sinatra; Lucky’s Last Stike is the home of the peanut butter and jelly hamburger, that beat Bobby Flay in a hamburger competition, or have some La Columbe coffee which is one of the best coffees around. By the way, try the burger.  Everyone I have introduced that burger to has absolutely loved it.  Also, if you are looking for history, then Laurel Hill Cemetery is around the corner.  This place is on the National Register of Historic Places and they have a tour.  There are some interesting personalities there.
  • Jim’s Steaks at 400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147:  Jim’s is on South Street in Philly and to say it’s eclectic is an understatement.  You will find second hand shops, sex stores, comic book haven, restaurants and bars.  It’s also near The Famous Fourth Street Deli which is a family favorite.  Interesting location and a greta place to find a good cheesesteak. It’s also near the site where Larry Fine from the Three Stooges was born.

Nassau/Atlantis

Nassau in the Bahamas:  Bob and I were there a few years ago and we found it depressing and the only real place to be was Atlantis which is extremely pricey.  Bob and I were wondering around and found out that the area had not recovered from.  There was a run distillery and a Hard Rock outside of Atlantis.  Atlantis is very expensive and I felt trapped there because the rest of Nassau was a day trip.  “Nice.  Not thrilling but nice.” (Mel Brooks had that right).

Other places to consider:

  • Roatan, Honduras:  This is my favorite location in the Caribbean.  We took the kid’s there 12 years ago and I went again 5 years ago.  I would go again in a heartbeat.  It’s not as touristy and the snorkeling/scuba diving is exceptional.  The second largest reef is located from the middle of Mexico to the middle of Central America and Roatan is part of it.  There are beautiful beaches, restaurants on the beach, activities in the Rain Forest and just dome of the best relaxing I’ve had in the Caribbean.
  • Cozumel, Mexico:  Nice place to visit for a few days.  Bob and I loved it.  There is a Tequila micro-distillery, Mayan ruins, beaches, shipping and dining.  We did the Tequila distillery and found some excellent Tequila.  It’s called Del Barrill Marinero and the Distillery is Licores Real Marinero and can be found on Facebook.   Also, there is El Cedral, which is a Mayan site near Cozumel.  It’s an ancient fertility temple which helped couples conceive.  El Cedral is the oldest Mayan site in the area and dates back to 800AD.  There are some wonderful little restaurants along the way.  Taxis are abundant and cheap.  It’s a nice option.

Cherry Blossom Festival in DC

This is one of the most beautiful festivals and the most popular events in DC.  It gets extremely busy during the weekends to the point that parking is impossible and you can barely move.  Luckily, I am very patient and will wait a very long time for the right picture.  I won’t do it again and once is enough.  If you are going to attempt the festival, go during the week when it is easier but you can still expect some big crowds.

 

 

Other places to consider:

  • Shofuso Japanese House and Garden:  This is one of the most beautiful sites in Philadelphia.  I attempt a visit every year or two.  Shofuso was built in Japan in 1953 and then shipped to New York.  The house was displayed in the courtyard of the New York Museum of Modern art.  Then in 1958, Shofuso was moved to the Fairmont Park area in Philadelphia.  The site includes a pond garden with a waterfall, island, and koi fish, a tea garden with a traditional tea house, and a courtyard garden leading to a bathhouse.  It is one of the most serene places in the Philadelphia area.  Most of the Cheery Blossom trees were planted in 1926 and were presented to Philadelphia as a gift from Japan.  The festival includes performances and taiko drumming.

 

Some Other Disappointments

Runner Up:  Some other places that have been disappointments

  1.  Casinos:  Amada was disappointed when she was able to go into casinos.  She hated losing money and thought it was boring.  She just felt that generally it was not a thing for her.
  2. Harry Potter World in Universal Studios Orlando:  Bob had built it up so much that she expected more and ….more like the world itself.  He liked it but it was pretty crowded.  He loved The Three Broomsticks restaurant and the shops.
  3. Hollywood:  The Walk of Fame is not a destination site.  It’s nice to see while you’re in the area along with the Chinese theatre and the Hollywood sign but it’s not worth going to Hollywood for just that.  West Hollywood is considered to be the fourth most dangerous city and if you are not sure where you are going, you might land in an area that you might not want to be.  Luckily, the tourist areas have regular police patrols.
  4. Poe House on Philadelphia:  This was one of the first museums went to upon moving to Philadelphia.  It’s a typical period house with some information and a few pictures.  Not quiet the homage we had hoped it would be.
  5. Atlantic City:  I have a love-hate relationship with Atlantic City.  I have seen in delcine over the last several years.  Three years ago we were there for a comedy show and stayed at the Borgota and then Bob and I were there about 5 years ago at the Borgota and 6 years ago with Amanda and her bestie for a Mom-Daughter 21st birthday getaway.  I have seen the deline over that period and now have learned that it’s been rated as one of the best boardwalks.  The SO and I laughed when we walked on the boardwalk after dinner that it was dinner and a show.  

 

No matter what, some vacations and trips are not perfect.  It just a matter of making the best of it.  Have a backup plan.  Happy travels.

 

REFERENCES

The Ultimate Guide to Cheesesteaks in Philly

Shofuso

Shofuso Cherry Blossom Festival

Where to Find the Best cheesesteak in Philadelphia

The Joys and Perils of Crossing the Atlantic

Since I am looking for novel traveling experiences, I decided to cross the Atlantic via cruise ship.  It seemed romantic and a wonderful old fashioned way to relax and enjoy the world pass me by.  I wanted time to read, think, and write.  I wanted to organize the millions of ideas I had and research some of the spots I wanted to visit.  I was looking forward to sleep, naps, and coffee on the back deck.  I bought the wifi package, brought, my laptop, notebook, and camera, and was ready to begin my adventure.

     

Leaving port was incredibly beautiful and awesome.  The moon hung in a cloudless and inky sky.  The Manhattan skyline at night was an extraordinary backdrop for the beginning of the trip.  The ship sailed off slowly on calm waters and we spent time watching the cityscape drift past us.  I was mesmerized by the dancing lights.  Just when I though it couldn’t be more beautiful,  we cruised past Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty who resided comfortably in the in the glow of  lights.  The experience of seeing these sites from the water was spectacular.  It was a romantic and indulgent way to begin a vacation.  It was the perfect beginning to an otherwise disappointing and tumultuous 5 nights at sea.

I must say that I will not spend that many nights at sea without some sort of break.  I think if I had more distractions and less tumultuous movement, I wouldn’t feel this way.  As a matter of fact, I have gone on record saying that if I ever bring up the notion of crossing the Atlantic uninterrupted again, I am up be stopped at all costs.  Immediately.

The cruise started off pleasantly.  We boarded quickly.   Norwegian has an effective system of making an appointment time to board.  This decreased wait time significantly.  What also helped is that even though the ship could accommodate 2500 passengers, with only a little more than 900 on board for this trip.  We stepped into the building and had our ticket and passport checked.  We went through security and then immediately walked up to the check-in desk.  We had our tickets checked, Covid test looked at, pictures taken and everything filed and documented.  Off we went onto the ship.

On our first night, we wondered around to get the lay of the land. It was a big boat with only a few people on board, it was easy to navigate around and find a table when we wanted to eat or a place to sit. The ship had two main dining rooms but only one was open.  The ship also had an Irish pub, a Chinese restaurant, and a casual buffet plus two outdoor cafes.  There were bars throughout the shop and a theatre.  The center of the ship contained an atrium with guest services, a baby grand piano for entertainment, a Starbucks, and a movie screen for late night movies.

We choose a stateroom with a limited view. I received an email a few months prior about putting in a bid to upgrade our room and took advantage of that.  We won the bid and paid an extra $300 for a balcony room.  I hadn’t realized how valuable that was going amenity would be for us.  The room had more space which was ideal for a two week stay and I was able to hang my washed sweaters on the chairs while in port.  We had taken a couple of bottles of wine with us and we would lounge with a glass of wine after dinner so we could watch the sun set and the waves crash into the ship.  Luck was with us as to  which side of the boat we stayed on because most of the time we docked on the side that allowed us to watch the ship pull into port.

My dissatisfaction with transatlantic boat travel came around Tuesday. For both of us, it was rocky but manageable until the night. Around 11 o’clock each night between Tuesday night and Friday night the boat would start rocking in up to 30 foot waves. When I say rocking, I mean side to side, back and forth and up and down.  It moved in ALL directions and sometimes all at one time. I was expecting movement but was caught off guard at how extreme it could be at times.

The theatre was not what I had experienced in the past.  The Ukrainian brother’s Cirque du Soleil style show was excellent and I would catch that again.  I didn’t care for the other shows since they  were more Vegas lounge style.  We preferred listening to the musicians at the bars.  On Wednesday we thought we’d go to the theater to see a comedian. We walked in the theater and it had already started and there weren’t any seats at the top for us to sit down and we didn’t want to walk down in the dark especially with my knee still being post-op. We turned around to walk out and we were in the dark hallway of the theater and the boat literally dropped. We turned green and went back to the room. I can honestly say I don’t get seasick after that incident.

One of the joys about having transatlantic travel was having the balcony. First of all, I liked the windows so I can see what the weather and the condition of the Atlantic. Also, having that openness was really wonderful on the dark and gloomy days. I was surprised about how much that balcony helped from it feeling dark and closed off, especially at night.

Another bonus was being forced to relax.  It is hard for me to relax since I have so much going in my life.  I thought retirement would mean a slowing down and it actually has been the opposite.  I am busier than when I was working.  I love travel but it is work in that I do a lot of research into locations and spend a lot of time making arrangement.  The best is that I only have myself to manage.  I like it that way.  I was able to read, plan, write, relax and enjoy the company of others.  I slept when I wanted to (I still miss those after lunch naps), ate when I wanted to, and generally was on my own schedule.  It was true luxury.

As much as I enjoyed the rest of the trip, I think I would fly to Europe to do a cruise as opposed to a transatlantic.  As much as I’d like to say never say never, I think I will say never. It’s just not my cup of tea.  I prefer to spend my time exploring different locations and not sitting there waiting.  The biggest drawback for me was the incessant movement of the boat and the endless expanse of the Atlantic. At least, now can say “Been there.  Done that.”

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