Aloha Everyone,
During our 2nd visit to Greenock, the walk took us through underground passages via less touristy areas. When I compared photos I posted from our first time here, the stark differences are day and night.
These photos were not from the visitors bureau points of view but rather unadorned honest photographs.
Returned to the ship after we purchased provisions for the 2nd half of our cruise. After cappuccino in the Piazza, we watched tabletop checker game. J.J. and I then went to have our lunch at the Fresh Market Place.
Tonight our waiter in the Concerto was most attentive and brought the restaurant manager to take my special Gluten free order.
We have our WiFi for another 18 plus hours. Looking forward to speaking with Jeff and Irene plus catching up with my games and reading.
Aloha Everyone,
Misty rain and gray sky with occasional scattered showers was the weather forecast for today. We took a shuttle bus provided by the Irish Tourism Board at a cost of $15.95 per person. It was a short drive, a mere 15 minutes to the center of town. Our objective was let’s get to the city center and absorb a general feel for this “historical” city.
J.J. and I got off in front of the Visit Belfast office. Immediately the two of us were surrounded by at least 1/2 dozen aggressive sales people. Some promoting HOP ON HOP OFf and others in green attire promoting competitive tours.
By that time rain drops were pelting our faces. We did the smart thing. Walked into the Visit Belfast Office. I purchased postcards and stamps. While J.J. accessed their free WiFi to check on emails, I scribbled quick messages and dropped the cards into a mailbox.
Coffee break at a Starbucks before we return to the ship.
Forkloric Performance: Magic of Irish Rhythms presented in the Princess Theater was one of the best musical experiences on board this ship. 5 musicians each with their own instruments including the main guitarist who sang several Irish ballads plus 5 dancers were all professional performers. Audience was also very enthusiastic and engaged. At dinner, our table mates and we agreed that this was far better than the regular Princess dancers and singers. It was a great way to end this rainy day in Belfast.
Aloha Everyone,
We took a tender to the port. Sunny and calm sea, appeared to be another rare sunny day in Ireland.
J.J. and I are now experienced traveling to Dublin. We took a train and walked to the designated site to ride a HOP-ON HOP-OFF. There were 25 stops listed on the sightseeing tour map with live guide commentary.
J.J. and I climbed up to the upper deck of the bus to get better photos. A coffee break before retracing our route back to the ship. It was another great day!
Aloha -- Cathi
Aloha Everyone,
Cobh is a new port for us. This part of Ireland has more historical sites for visitors including a Titanic Museum and the Lusitania Peace Memorial. From where Emerald Princess docked, it was easy walking distance to the town center.
Absolutely sunny and beautiful day!
We enjoyed tonight’s entertainment by Dain Cordean at the Princess Theater. On some occasions, Dain lost his audience due to his heavy Gaelic accent and dry sense of humor.
