Onions no big deal I have lived with it all my life. Certainly a lot of worse things to be allergic too and also my reactions are not serious just some nausea and burping like a sailor (very classy for sure) Actually I really enjoyed my LAZY day yesterday.

We have arrived in RUSSIA - in the mining town of Provideniya. Even Russians have to get special visa to visit here. There is a an abandoned Russian Miltary Base perhaps that is the reason.

It is a gorgeous day with bright sunshine, no wind and it is supposed to get up to 60 degrees today AND they let us dock. So no parkas or life jackets or getting ashore by zodiacs. I like the zodiacs but kind of nice to "just walk off" for a change.

We were warned that clearing the ship could take more than three hours. There are two Russian ladies aboard helping with all the immigration details. We have been docked for about an hour now and nothing over the PA yet as to the procedures. There are lectures in the theatre today to keep us busy while the check us all out.

We were told last night that we can use US $ and Euros to purchase anything on shore. However no British Pounds, Australian $ or any other currency will be accepted. So that answers your question Jim and Pat you can use US $.

Once they are sure we are all safe security risks we will have a welcome ceremony on the the dock. Then two English speaking guides will walk us through the town. Then there is a shuttle bus to the "House of Culture" where the miners wives will give a folkfore concert.

The town looks lovely from the ship. Some tall mountains with traces of snow way down to the very green lower hills with trees,
and the glistening calm blue ocean. Ken is out taking pictures but it is hard to catch the beauty of the scenery. We have been SO lucky with the weather and today is a perfect example.

Will report back after our time ashore - really looking foward to this stop.

Helen and Rachel: Had dinner with the two Helens and Steve last night and had a lovely time listening to stories of Jerry's rendition of "The House of the Rising Sun". Also how George rescued one of the Helens from the Hike from Hell!
We made plans to have dinner the last night onboard together. They were all going on SUMO originally shame that they did not stay on the trip I enjoy their company really nice people.