Unforgettable Trip to Aruba

 Escape to Paradise - My Unforgettable Trip to Aruba

Night Photo of Aruba

When you think of paradise, crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and warm island breezes probably come to mind. For me, that paradise became reality in Aruba. Located just off the coast of Venezuela, this tiny Caribbean island is bursting with charm, adventure, and beauty at every turn.

Why Aruba?

Known as “One Happy Island,” Aruba lives up to its nickname. The locals are warm and welcoming, the weather is sunny almost every day of the year, and the island feels safe and easy to explore. Plus, it’s outside the hurricane belt, which makes it a reliable year-round destination.

Woke up early morning, my cruise ship was almost at the dock, and after a good breakfast on the ship which was a 3 eggs omelet and a coffee was ready to explore the island on my own.  

As I exited the ship, there was a tour bus selling tours for $25 which was a good deal and took us all over the island.

Casibari Rock Formations

This was our first stop on my tour. The Casibari Rock Formations are a collection of tonalite boulders located in the center of Aruba, near the village of Paradera. These mysterious formations are a popular tourist destination because they offer a unique hiking experience and panoramic views of the island.

The rocks have been shaped by wind and erosion over time, and some people believe they resemble different animals. There are walking trails and steps carved into the rocks, making it possible for visitors to climb to the top for a 360-degree view. The site is also notable for its historical significance, as the native Arawak people are believed to have used the area for religious rites and left behind petroglyphs (rock drawings).

Next stop was Cheng Xing super Market, its a Asian Grocery store. 

Next The Aruba Aloe Factory Museum and Store which is a popular tourist destination in Aruba. It is an aloe factory that offers free educational tours and has a gift shop in a picturesque setting. There is a Aloe farm outside the store where they gave a short demonstration of extracting Aloe from the Plant.

And the next stop is the California Lighthouse. It was built between 1914 and 1916 and is named after the steamship California, which was wrecked nearby in 1891. The lighthouse is located on the northwestern tip of Aruba and offers panoramic views of the island's coastline. It is a popular tourist destination.

California Lighthouse Aruba

And the last stop was Eagles Beach. Aruba is home to many beautiful beaches. Eagle Beach is ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, it features a long stretch of white sand and clear turquoise water. It's also known for the iconic fofoti trees. I choose to go back to the Cruise ship as it was a hot day. In the evening I did stroll the busy markets to buy a few souvenirs, there are several shops and Bars within walking distance of the cruise port.

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Bonaire Tour from Cruise Port

Bonaire is a beautiful Caribbean island known for its pristine natural environment, particularly its coral reefs and diving opportunities. It's located in the Leeward Antilles, off the coast of Venezuela. It's part of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao).

The official language is Dutch, but Papiamento is widely spoken.

Weather  Towards the end of January was hot and Humid

Bonaire is a special municipality of the Netherlands.

Image on the left shows the coast of Bonaire, characterized by a sharp contrast between the deep blue of the open ocean and the vibrant turquoise of the shallow waters closer to the shore.

After a good breakfast on my cruise ship, exited the ship and headed towards the cruise port, now I did not have a excursion planned ahead of time so basically I approached the Taxi counter, was told if there are four people they would charge USD 25 each for an island tour that lasted about three and a half hours. Within minutes there were 3 others wanting to go, was kind of surprised as most folks have booked shore excursions by the cruise ship company, anyways off we went. 

The cab driver was also our tour guide and gave a commentary on the sites we passed by, our first stop was the surf and snorkel beach, we walked down the steps to the beach. Picture of the iguana by the steps.

We continued on and our next stop was the lake. Salinas are natural saltwater lakes. Goto Lake is the largest natural saltwater lake on Bonaire where flamingos have their breeding grounds.

And we drove along the beautiful Bonaire island and came to Seru Largu which has a Cross on a hill and is a lookout point with Great island views.

It was a hot day and our last stop was The Cadushy Distillery where they make liquor out of the cactus. We drove around various neighbourhoods and were back at the Port in late afternoon.

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Things to do in Ljubljana Slovenia

Welcome to Ljubljana, the charming capital city of Slovenia! This picturesque city offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will surely captivate you. Slovenia  is the only country with LOVE in its name, S'love'nia

Arrival Took a flight from Warsaw Poland, once outside the airport took the airport shuttle to hotel for 12 euros.

Stay Stayed in a hotel across from the Dragon Bridge, cost was around 60 euros, plenty of eating places near by and walking distance to major tourist attractions.

Here are my recommendations on things to do in Ljubljana

Start your journey at Start at the Triple Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ljubljana. The Tourist Information office is next to the bridge where you can get maps and any info tourism related.

Franciscan Church 

Old Town

The heart of Ljubljana is its charming Old Town. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, adorned with colorful baroque buildings, and visit Prešeren Square, dominated by the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. Also know as the Pink Church, Its right across from the Triple Bridge. Do go inside the church, its beautiful 

Ljubljanica River

The Ljubljanica River flows through the city, and its embankments are lined with outdoor cafes, artisan shops, and vibrant markets. Consider taking a leisurely boat cruise to see the city from a different perspective. There are several places you can take the river boat from, you'll see Ticket vendors selling tickets, buy the ticket and go down the stairs were you wait for the boat to come pick you up.

Central Market

Visit the Central Market, where you can find fresh produce, local products, and artisan crafts. The market is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and perhaps even sample some traditional Slovenian snacks or trying traditional dishes like "potica" (nut roll), and "žlikrofi" (dough pockets filled with various fillings).

Dragon Bridge

Visit the Dragon Bridge, a 20th-century bridge that is decorated with dragons, popular myth is when a young virgin crosses the bridge, the dragon moves its tail.

Ljubljana Slovenia Dragon Bridge

Ljubljana Castle

It overlooks the city from a hill. You can either hike up the hill or take the funicular for a more relaxed ride. Once at the castle, enjoy panoramic views of the city, explore the historical exhibitions, and learn about the castle's rich history.

Day Trips

Ljubljana is conveniently located for day trips to other beautiful Slovenian destinations. Consider visiting Lake Bled, known for its stunning emerald-green lake and the iconic Bled Castle. You could also explore Postojna Cave and Škocjan Caves, both offering incredible underground formations.

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Montego Bay Jamaica

On my cruise from Galveston Texas to Aruba  Bonaire, and Curaçao, the three westernmost islands of the Leeward Antilles in the Caribbean Sea, after 2 days of sailing Montego Bay Jamaica was the first stop. The weather in January was hot and humid.

Montego Bay

Had booked a City tour shore excursion with the option of ordering lunch which was Jerk. Jerk is a traditional Jamaican way of seasoning and cooking meat, typically pork or chicken, the cost of the tour including jerk was 62 USD. The tour was 4 and half hours and included a tour guide, the guide went over how Montego Bay was a hub for the trans-Atlantic slave trade and sugar cane plantations. Rum originated in the West Indies, and Jamaican rum is known for its full-bodied flavor. Sugarcane was a major part of the economy in the 1600 and 1700 hundreds and these days the biggest economic income generator is Tourism. Also most of the tour stops were tourist souvenir shops. 

The tour passes through the rich and poor parts of the town, and Sam Sharpe Square, due to narrow streets and traffic issues the bus did not stop a the square, next we went by Rose Hall Great House. It's not a traditional haunted house attraction, but rather a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion with a dark and chilling history that fuels its haunted reputation. Annie Palmer, the White Witch of Rose Hall. was a real woman who lived in the house in the 19th century, but the legend surrounding her has grown over time. Stories depict her as a cruel mistress who practiced black magic, and murdered her three husbands. She was Irish.

Now it it was time to eat, the meal included Chicken Jerk, sweet corn bread and a drink. Jerk is cooked over a pimento wood fire, which imparts a smoky flavor to the meat. The meat is often placed on a grill or on racks above the fire, allowing the smoke and heat to penetrate it.

Chicken Jerk Jamaica 

The jerk seasoning typically includes a fiery combination of Scotch bonnet peppers, pimento (allspice), thyme, scallions, ginger, garlic, and other spices. The specific blend and proportions can vary, giving each jerk chef their own unique flavor.

After lunch we drove towards the hip strip in Montego Bay, the guide had to bring Famous Reggae star Bob Marley, no tour in Jamaica is complete with the brief history of him. And we were at our last stop The Margaritaville resort which was damaged by waves and required a complete rebuild. It is a restaurant, and some of the folks went there to have a few drinks. There were street vendors trying to sell me bracelets and souvenirs, avoided them.

Final thoughts - Was not too impressed by Montego Bay, then again didn't do anything out of comfort zone and did not experience then night life. or go to the Capitol of Jamaica Kingston. Have you travelled to Jamaica if so, leave me your thoughts in the comments below.

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Explore Austin Texas

Austin, Texas is a vibrant city known for its live music scene, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food. It is also home to the University of Texas, one of the largest schools in the USA, South by Southwest, an annual set of film, interactive media, and music festivals. Home to Formula 1 races at Circuit of the Americas.  

Austin Street Art, above “Greetings from Austin” 1720 S. First Street, Austin

Here are some popular things to do in Austin:

1. Live Music and Entertainment: Sixth Street: Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Sixth Street offers a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues featuring a diverse range of genres.

ACL Live at The Moody Theater: A popular music venue that hosts concerts, performances, and tapings of the Austin City Limits TV show.

The Continental Club: A historic music venue featuring live music, including blues, rock, and country.

2. Outdoor Activities:

Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake: Enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or simply take a stroll along the scenic hike-and-bike trail around Lady Bird Lake.

Zilker Park: A large urban park offering picnic areas, Barton Springs Pool (a natural spring-fed swimming pool), and various recreational facilities.

Mount Bonnell: Climb the stairs to the top for panoramic views of the city and Lake Austin.

3. Cultural Attractions:

Bullock Texas State History Museum: Learn about the history of Texas through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive displays.

The Blanton Museum of Art: Explore a wide range of art collections from various periods and cultures.

Texas State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the state's impressive capitol building and learn about Texas history and government.

Texas State Capital

4. Food and Dining:

Food Trucks: Austin is known for its food truck scene, offering a wide range of cuisines from tacos to gourmet doughnuts

Franklin Barbecue: Famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, be prepared to wait in line for this culinary experience.

South Congress Avenue: Explore eclectic shops and dine in trendy restaurants along this bustling street.

Home Slice Pizza on Congress Ave

5. Outdoor Markets:

Austin Farmers' Market: Visit local farmers' markets to find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.

Hope Outdoor Gallery: An outdoor graffiti park where artists create colorful murals and visitors can admire the artwork.

6. Natural Springs:

Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool in Zilker Park that offers a refreshing swim year-round.

Hamilton Pool Preserve: A stunning natural pool formed by a collapsed grotto, surrounded by lush vegetation and a waterfall.

7. Nightlife and Entertainment:

Rainey Street: A trendy area with bungalow-style bars and food trucks, offering a unique nightlife experience.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: Enjoy movies, food, and drinks in a fun and interactive movie theater setting.

University of Texas Austin

Questions or Comments?

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Things to do and see in Jordan

Highlights of Jordan

One of the most beautiful countries in the Middle East, Jordan has a lot of attractions for visitors. There is ancient history here as well as spectacular desert formations and sea life. Here are some of the top things to see and do on a holiday in Jordan.

Amman

I didn't spend much time in Amman, One can find a decent room for about 30 US Dollars just about anywhere in Jordan, I paid a little extra for a nicer room with hot showers, most places include breakfast. Cabs are cheap and the best way to travel in Amman, if you know Arabic you could try buses.

Amman Airport to Hotel Transportation: I had my hotel arrange Airport pick up, Cab driver was standing with my name on a paper, easy and convenient.

Next morning I was off to Jerusalem, I wrote a small post on how to cross the border from 

Amman to Israel  http://goo.gl/TLdb8C

Crossing from Eilat to Aqaba http://goo.gl/wOzUwC

Aqaba

Beautiful City, head to the Tourist information office, you will get all the information and maps you need about Aqaba there.

Just off the coast of Aqaba you can go snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea. You’ll see coral reefs and a whole range of colorful fish. From clown fish to other sea wonders you’ll be amazed at the variety of sea life here. And don’t forget to head back into Aqaba for a delicious meal at one of the many fish restaurants. For a different kind of water experience head to the Dead Sea for a float.

The highlight of my trip was a dive in the Red Sea. There are several Dive centers in the city,  paid 35 JD for equipment and 40 minutes of diving.

Sleep Under the Stars in Wadi Rum

If you ever saw Lawrence of Arabia and were mesmerized by the desert rock formations then Wadi Rum will enthrall you. This is the setting for that movie and is breath-taking. Ride a camel across the desert and camp out under the stars here for a magical experience. 

Below is the Mini Bus I took from Aqaba to Wadi Rum For 5 JD, a picture of inside of what the van looks like. It drops you off at the Highway and from there another Van or mini Bus to Wadi Rum Tourist Center.



Once at the Tourist office you pay the entrance fee, there will be some locals offering you camp site and tours. Bargain the prices, most camp site include dinner and breakfast, which is quiet good.








I took a Jeep Tour of Wadi Rum and by sunset ended up climbing a hill to get some great views and Pictures.

The camp tents are comfortable and at night there was a bonfire with a few tourists sharing stories of their travels, there were 8 of us, mostly french, some there for mountain climbing. At night there is a clear sky and its the most stars in the sky that I have ever seen. 




Most people living in and around Wadi Rum are Bedouin, They are descended from nomads who live around Arabian and Syrian Deserts.

Explore Petra

For most people Petra is a highlight of any visit to Jordan.

The walk down the Siq is full of mystery and that first glimpse of the Treasury is unforgettable. But do take time to see the rest of Petra as there is a lot more to discover in this ancient city. From the Street of Facades to the High altars you’ll be amazed at the beauty of Petra. 

One of the Wonders of the world,  costs 50 JD about 75 USD for entrance.

Leaving Petra on a Friday for Amman, our Bus that was supposed to leave at 7 AM did not leave till 1 PM.

The mini buses generally will not leave in Jordan till they are full, so we ended up paying the bus driver twice the fair to drive (we as in the few of us in the bus).

Jordan is full of amazing experiences and is very diverse. From the cosmopolitan life of Amman to the solitude of the desert, its amazing!

Happy Travels!

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Nanortalik Greenland Iceberg Boat Tour

Nestled at the southern tip of Greenland, Nanortalik is a charming town known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. One of the best ways to experience this breathtaking region is through an iceberg boat tour. The boat tour was a shore excursion organized by my cruise company. 

Setting Off from Nanortalik

As we embark on boat tour, the excitement builds. The colorful houses of Nanortalik fade into the background as we venture into the open waters. Our guide and boat driver, a local expert,  shared insights about the area’s geography, history, and wildlife.

Awe-Inspiring Icebergs

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to see magnificent icebergs up close. These natural wonders come in various shapes and sizes, often glistening in shades of blue and white. The boat navigates through the fjords, allowing you to appreciate the scale and beauty of these floating giants.

Stunning Photo Opportunities

The unique beauty of the icy landscape provides endless opportunities for photography. Whether it’s the shimmering icebergs, the rugged mountains, or the charming town itself, you’ll want to capture every moment. Don’t forget to take some time to simply soak in the scenery!

A Memorable Conclusion

As our boat tour comes to an end, we returned to Nanortalik with a newfound appreciation for this remarkable part of the world. The combination of breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences makes an iceberg boat tour a must-do when visiting this enchanting Greenlandic town.

Tips for Your Tour

Dress Warmly: Even in summer, temperatures can be cool. Layer up to stay comfortable.

Ask Questions: Engage with your guide to learn more about the area’s ecology and culture.

With its awe-inspiring scenery and immersive experiences, a boat tour from Nanortalik promises to be a highlight of your Greenland adventure. Don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible region!

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Qaqortoq Greenland Walking Adventure

Exploring Qaqortoq Greenland on Foot: A Walking Adventure

Qaqortoq, a charming coastal town in southern Greenland, offers a delightful experience for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Qaqortoq is surrounded by majestic mountains, fjords, and glaciers, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

Above Picture: Tender Boat bringing visitors ashore in Qaqortoq. Tender ports are those where cruise ships cannot dock directly at the pier due to water depth, infrastructure limitations, or other factors. In such cases, smaller boats called tenders are used to transport passengers from the ship to the shore and back. This town was my second stop in my Cruise to Greenland, the First being Nanortalik.

Got off the Tender boat and right across from the port is a big sign 'Welcome To Qaqortoq' with a gift shop were one can buy Greenland souvenir's and T-shirts. 

Right behind the gift shop on a small hill are these stone carvings. The rock face is predominantly dark, likely a natural stone like granite or basalt. Carved into the rock are numerous fish-like shapes, arranged in a swirling pattern. The fish are detailed with fins, scales, and tails, and they appear to be swimming upwards. Fish are a significant part of Greenland's marine culture and economy. The carvings are weathered and slightly faded, suggesting a long history. Lush green grass grows at the base of the rock, adding a natural touch to the scene 

Snapped a few photos of the rock carvings, there are several other carvings of animals and human faces, kind of open air gallery.

There is a push to attract more tourist to Greenland. Made my way back down the hill and was off to explore the town.

Walked past and admired the vibrant and colorful houses that line the streets, adding to the town's charm. I was headed towards the church when I came across circular fountain surrounded by a stone wall. The fountain is a popular tourist attraction and a gathering place for locals. The dolphins are a symbol of the town's connection to the sea and its marine life.

 Memorial Fountain

A short walk from the Fountain is the Qaqortoq Church. Its a beautiful red church, a prominent landmark in the town. The Church was closed. 

Continued on my walk, there are cafe's and a Grocery store. Grocery store was well stocked with food and bakery items, I also passed a fish market on my walk. The town has a long history of Inuit settlement, and there are several cultural sites and museums that showcase the region's indigenous heritage.

Street Names are not easy to pronounce, The words tassuunnaqquunnerit Tamaasa mean “I think of you every time I pass by" The roads are paved and there are Taxis available. 

It was an overcast day, dress warm and have comfortable walking shoes, after a few hours I took the Tender back to the ship.

Comments, questions?

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Explore Sydney Nova Scotia

 

Sydney, Nova Scotia, is a picturesque town located on Cape Breton Island, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. This was the first stop on my cruise from Boston to Greenland. 

Outside the port where the ship docks there are several Taxi drivers eager to show you the Town, as a solo tourist the prices were high, for a group of 3 or 4 people they would be reasonable. So decided to venture on my own and walked along the Sydney Waterfront a leisurely walk along the waterfront boardwalk, with beautiful views of Sydney Harbor. The area features benches, public art, and picnic spots. 

Situated on the Sydney waterfront is the Big Fiddle is an iconic 60-foot fiddle sculpture, a tribute to Cape Breton's musical heritage. It’s a great photo opportunity!

Big Fiddle

Continued my walk past the street musicians and came across the Merchant Mariner Monument.

Merchant Mariner Monument

This bronze statue commemorates the brave merchant mariners who served during World War II. The sculpture shows four figures, representing different aspects of their service

• A sailor on the dock: This figure symbolizes the courage and determination of the merchant mariners who faced dangerous conditions at sea.
• A sailor reaching out: This figure represents the camaraderie and mutual support among the crew members.
• A sailor struggling to board a lifeboat: This figure depicts the perilous situations that the merchant mariners often encountered.
• A sailor looking out to sea: This figure symbolizes the hope and resilience of the merchant mariners who endured hardships and dangers.

The monument also features a plaque that provides additional information about the history of the merchant marine and their significant contributions during the war. The inscription on the plaque reads

"We were the forgotten service. We were the unsung heroes. We were the merchant mariners."

From the harbor walk I ventured into the town saw a arts and craft fair, the fair was nothing to write home about. The downtown area is not too far from where the ship docks, walked along George Street which is a popular downtown location with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Came across Highland Arts Theatre. It is a historic building that was originally constructed as a Presbyterian church in 1911.

 

Tired from all the walking, headed towards the Port of Sydney where the cruise ship was docked, there are all kinds of souvenir Shops on the way, bought a couple of T-Shirts, and was just in time to get some lunch as the buffet closes at 3 PM on the ship.

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Discovering St. John’s, Newfoundland

St. John's is a Hidden Gem of Canada

Was on a cruise from Boston to Greenland and had a stopover at St John's on the way back to Boston. The plan was to explore the city on my own, and it was raining so had to go with Plan B which is no plan. As I ventured off the ship and walked across the pier a person approached me with a city tour for US $60. Took his offer and 10 minutes later I was on the tour bus and off we went to our first stop

Signal Hill

Signal Hill is a prominent hill overlooking the city of St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada   

Scenic views, The hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, harbor, and the North Atlantic Ocean.   

Cabot Tower

Above Picture is The iconic tower, located on Signal Hill, there is a gift/souvenir shop inside the Tower.

Quidi Vidi Village

Our Next stop was Quidi Vidi Village which is a charming fishing village and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring St. John's, offering a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage and natural beauty.

There is Quidi Vidi Brewery, selling craft beers.  Now the bus tour passes through several historical and tourist sites. Sites like Jellybean Row which is one of the most iconic and charming features of St. John’s, Newfoundland. This vibrant street is famous for its brightly colored row houses, which have become a symbol of the city. 

Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site

This was our 3rd and final stop, it was still raining. This lighthouse is the most easterly point in North America, offering stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The visitor center provides information about the history of the lighthouse and the surrounding area.

On a Rainey Day the tour was worth every penny and turned out to be peachy.