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Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237305 04/14/13 03:29 AM
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Dreps Offline
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As I indicated above, we arrived in Cochin around noon on Saturday, and shortly after eating lunch and clearing immigration, we embarked on the “Highlights” excursion. Cochin is the capital of the southern Indian state, Kerala.

It has one of the finest natural harbors in the world, and for centuries was the center of the spice trade. Ancient mariners from the Middle East, China and Europe all left their mark on this beautiful island city, and its diverse past is reflected in its steep-roofed bungalows and colonial residences, its spice and antique shops, and its cathedral, palaces and synagogue.

At the beginning of the excursion, once we entered the old part of Cochin, we passed through the district of Mattancherry, noted for the medieval-style Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace). It is a large but modest-looking building with sloping roofs, the palace was built by the Portuguese in 1555 and given to the Raja of Kochi (Cochin). It is now a museum with exhibits recording the history, traditions and culture of the area. Unfortunately, photos could not be taken inside.

We also stopped in the ancient neighborhood known as Jew Town, once a thriving Jewish enclave in the late 1500s. The community has dwindled in numbers—our terrific guide, Ajita, said there were but 8 Jews remaining. We got a glimpse of the synagogue, built in 1568, but we did not have the opportunity to go inside. After strolling the narrow streets of Jew Town, passing an assortment of shops selling similar carvings, jewelry, fabrics, etc., we made a stop at a very fancy store selling fine jewels, furniture and rugs; several of us really liked a silk rug which was about 8 x 10 and only $24,000!

We also stopped at St. Francis church, the oldest European church in India, built in 1503 by Portuguese friars. Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524 until 1538 when his remains were taken to Lisbon. His sepulcher can still be seen at the church. We also made a short stop at the Indo-Portuguese Museum, but our guide said that the gardens outside were much more interesting than the artifacts inside.

Finally, we drove back to the water to see the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, which we had viewed upon arriving at Cochin. These fixed and cantilevered fishing nets are the icon of Cochin sea trade, and cannot be found anywhere else in India. It is believed Chinese traders brought these huge fishing nets to Cochin from the court of Kublai Khan. We also saw (and smelled) the local fish market.
All in all, it was an excellent “Highlights” tour, especially because we had one of the best guides we’ve encountered on the cruise.

We had dinner with Ngaire, Ken, Peggy, and Jerry. The featured dish was sea bass, which was pretty good, though I enjoyed the mussel appetizer and the passion fruit sorbet even more.

After dinner, as I mentioned above, there was a performance with acrobatics and dancing. I think I was in fact able to take some interesting photos of the costumed dancers.

On Sunday, we had 22 people from Ngaire’s TAJ group on our “Tranquil Backwaters“ today. Our guide was not that good, but we enjoyed the tour, especially the cruise along the backwaters. I hope to provide more details later—though someone else might beat me to the punch.

Right now I need to get ready for the Indian dinner that is being arranged for some of us using a menu prepared by Ken Simpson.

----------------------

Eugene

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237306 04/14/13 04:22 AM
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Leslie B Offline
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Quick pix from the Backwaters tour. Andi and Eugene can do the commentary on our fun day.


[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

And Ralph and June get a a full size feature if the Internet is cooperating.

[Linked Image]







Leslie

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237309 04/14/13 05:23 AM
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coffeecup Offline
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stunning Ralph/June


Diane

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237310 04/14/13 05:27 AM
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KarenS Offline
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Leslie, thanks so much for the people pix, they are fantastic! I am loving the Ralph and June one, it could be the cover of a greeting card!


Karen

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Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237311 04/14/13 06:22 AM
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Michele & Don Offline
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Yea June & Ralph!!
(...a home run, Leslie!)

Thanks, everyone -we're really enjoying the photos & commentary!


Michele
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237313 04/14/13 11:03 AM
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sedona Offline
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Cochin, India: Saturday and Sunday


The ship has been adding daily ominous warnings about this part of the trip. First,  it was to lower our expectations. Two nights ago, they warned us about pirates. Today, we have been warned about what to eat and not eat due to health concerns. 

Pirates haven't yet attacked the ship, so we had about a day and a half in our first port, Cochin. Cochin is located on the southwest coast of India. The city straddles backwaters, encompassing the northern end of a peninsula, several islands and a portion of the mainland. To the west lies the Arabian Sea.

As we arrived into our first port, Cochin, we received a lecture over the loudspeaker directing us as to the sites on either side of the ship. I was surprised to see fairly attractive tropical-flavored colonial/Asian  architecture and flora (lots of palm trees). As the ship pulled into the pier, we faced a cement plant - not exactly scenic - and folks flocked down to the pier but were kept at a safe distance by the military police. I was sure that they were tourists who had come to see the ship, but it turned out that these 50 or so folks were from immigration and were soon escorted onto the ship.

We have been to Russia and China but India presented the most bureaucratic systems and paperwork we have faced in our travels to date. We were called by tour and floor to collect our paperwork and to be cleared for immigration. Once called, our papers were reviewed by no fewer than three individuals. All reviews were courteous, quick and pleasant, many with broad smiles, but multiple nonetheless. I have no idea what they were looking for in these multiple reviews as they were cursory at best.

While everything says we are in Cochin, including signs, I really got confused because the guides kept calling it by other names. It appears they now call it Kochi and it is a major port city on the west coast of India by the Arabian Sea and is part of the district of Ernakulam of the state of Kerala, so Kochi is also called by the name Ernakulam or Kerala and the guides call it by all of these things interchangeably, and combined with the Indian accent, I was really confused until I pulled the guide aside and asked him what was the difference in the names. Nothing really...just different names for the same place.

Kochi was an important spice trading centre on the Arabian Sea coast from the 14th century. Occupied by the Portuguese Empire in 1503, Kochi was the first of the European colonies in colonial India. Kochi was the centre of Indian spice trade for many centuries, and was known to the Greeks and Romans as well as Jews, Arabs, and Chinese since ancient times.

There were a couple of tours the first afternoon that many went on: one was a  highlights tour and the other was a highlights with a harbor cruise. We took the one with the harbor cruise. Our ship packed bus after bus of us into this city to tourist sites and the guides did a pretty good job of keeping us from trampling  one another by staying very organized and marching us along with military precision. We took in the Chinese fishing nets and were shown how the current day fisherman utilize these stationary nets to pull in the fish. Then we were brought by the fish market to see the results of their efforts. All the while, we were chased by peddlers selling beads, ornaments, batteries, fans, cigarettes, tiger balm, pictures. 

We visited St Francis Church, first a Portuguese church in the 1500s, then renovated in the 1700s as a Dutch Reform Church and finally converted to a British Anglican Church. We walked to a restroom stop in a lovely, but overpriced gift shop and many succumbed to the vendors along the way. I bought a cheap skirt from a rack on the street that a British woman helped me negotiate and we went on to our next stop-Jew town. 

Cochin Jews are the oldest group of Jews in India, with roots claimed to date to the time of King Solomon (circa 950 BCE). Several rounds of immigration of the Jewish diaspora into Kerala led to an ethnic, but not a linguistic, diversity: the community was divided into White Jews (Paradesi Jews) and Black Jews. It has been claimed that following the destruction of the First Temple in the Siege of Jerusalem of 587 BC, some Jewish exiles came to India. But it was after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE that the first wave of large numbers of settlers came to Cranganore, an ancient port near Cochin. Jews of Cranganore were attacked on the pretext that they had an advantage with the pepper trades o they fled south to the Kingdom of Cochin, seeking the protection of the Cochin Royal Family who gave them asylum. Moreover, they exempted Jews from taxation and bestowed on them all privileges enjoyed by the tax-payers.

Today most of Cochin's Jews have emigrated to Israel. however, we were told that of the 5 founding families, only 7 family members still live in Kochi.  The Paradesi Synagogue still functions, and is also a tourist attraction but was close as it was Saturday. It was a very large white building, church like in appearance, set way back from the road. Jew Street, once filled with tailors and shop keepers are now lined with fine jewelry, clothing and "antique" shops. We visited the Mattancherry Palace next door to the synagogue and it was overcrowded and dreadfully hot. For my 10 cents, I could have put my time to much better use shopping. I dragged Doug's sorry butt in the heat to a pashmina shop to spend much to short a time combing through a beautiful selection of cashmere and hand embroidered garments. He was a terrific sport as well as a negotiator. We ended our day with a peaceful harbor cruise before returning back to the ship for dinner and a local show,

Sunday brought a "tranquil backwaters"  tour about 90 minutes from Kochi. As pretty as the area is, I can't get over the trash bags piled high and litter strewn everywhere. it really is a blight. Our whole group of friends got in the same bus and we were again pleased that the bus was in rather nice condition with good air conditioning, Our restroom stop was relatively okay and we arrived on the canal for our journey. We had visions of ourselves languishing like royalty on houseboats, but while we saw many Cadillacs we got mass transport with plastic lawn chairs. As we cruised by these other fine specimens, complete with air conditioning, we took pictures. The trip was rather interesting. Folks were bathing in the water, washing their dishes by the shore, washing their clothes On the rocks, working in the rice paddies and even visited a home. The highlight was our visit to the church. Many of us didn't even want to venture out. Doug and I finally decided to climb off the boat. We were greater by the most poised and articulate group of 10 year olds. They couldn't wait to speak with us and learn about us and share information about their area. They were treasures. One little girl was Maria. She wanted to know who " my husband or partner  was" and wanted to meet him. The boys were typical...giving one another rabbit ears , but being poised enough to shake our hands.

Lunch was at a beautiful resort by the water. It was very hot and humid ( but not as bad as Cambodia). Thankfully, they had fans, which helped to dry off some off the perspiration. Lunch included tandoori chicken, steamed and pan fried vegetables, daal, fish, lamb, vermicelli pudding, ice cream, coconut soufflé, and all sorts of salads and soups. Of course, we sniffed out the gift shop and I found a gorgeous silk bedspread. One of the fellows in the group negotiated with the guide to eliminate the fishing nets and the church which many of us had seen the day before ( by telling him his tips would be higher) and we returned back to the ship earlier than expected and as the ship is ready to sail on to our next port this afternoon. 

Naturally, we couldn't miss a meal with Ken and Ngaire and our celebrity couple (Junalph) in the picture above, went to a magic show and then went off to bed. I can't believe we only have one week left. This is such a great group of people. They are a joy to be with. I wish this trip could go on and on and on...




 

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237314 04/14/13 04:28 PM
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KarenS Offline
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Posting for Eugene:

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]


Karen

Live long and prosper
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237315 04/14/13 05:57 PM
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Dreps Offline
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Thanks Karen. Internet connection has been good, but we still cannot view any of our photos that are posted on LCT, which is too bad.

----------------------

Eugene

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237316 04/14/13 07:09 PM
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jhp Offline
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Don't worry, Eugene, they are great. 6 photos from the ship with the entertainment brought onboard.

Also loving that picture of Ralph and June, as everyone does! Like Michele said, a home run for Leslie, for those of us who know them both!

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237317 04/14/13 08:56 PM
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Stayed on the ship today in Mangalore so I could get caught up on the internet while everyone else is out enjoying the area. We may take the shuttle into town later today -- or not-- love these lazy self appointed sea days. We enjoyed the backwaters tour in Cochin yesterday. I wouldn't mind spending a night or two on one of the luxury house boats we saw. Tomorrow is Goa and we'll go to see one of the famous beaches there. The food and company has been great -- we'll really miss all our pals when they get off in Mumbai sad but Betty and Al will get on there, so we won't be completely lonely smiles


Peggy
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237318 04/14/13 10:36 PM
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Betty adventured into New Mangalore today...hot enough for 2 piña coladas! She's thinking of you Kim & Alice!!

[Linked Image]

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237319 04/15/13 12:30 AM
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Mrs. Marc Offline
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I am so enjoying everyone's posts and pictures as we had to miss this cruise. It seems like it has gone so fast!

The picture of Ralph and June is a great one and just warm's the heart as Olivia said "for those of us who know them both"


Arlene
Adventure before Dementia!
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237321 04/15/13 01:41 AM
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sedona Offline
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Took a Mangalore tour today...thankfully, the shortest one.We lost two British passengers who wandered off in the market and the poor tour guide was beside himself. All he wanted to do was please a bunch of hot and cranky tourists. He was wonderful.

Went to the mall. You know it's not too exciting a port when you go to the mall. Saw some folks waiting for the shuttle and they said "nothing there" but we ventured in anyhow. There were 5 floors and we found that most of the outfits wouldn't have translated well back home, but one store looked interesting. I wandered in and Ken, Ralph and Dennis were all in the man chairs. Ngaire had bought up the store and June and Susan were on their way along with Meredith. Nothing much was left for me, so I only picked up a couple of things. The highlight of our day was our fish pedicure that we found at the mall. We took a shuttle home and did laundry. I think it's time to check out India's beaches.

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237322 04/15/13 03:05 AM
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Leslie B Offline
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Just when we began to think we had our fill of Buddhist and Hindu temples, today we ventured to two Jain temples! This was quite a popular tour, with 7 buses total. I expected some complaints given the climb to the first temple, but everyone we saw gamely made the trek up as we had been forewarned in the tour description of the climb. Our guide had the sweetest demeanor and smile and sang a few songs for us; first to welcome us and the to wish us well on our travels.

Our intesting excursion today left Mangalore and climbed for about an hour on winding narrow roads to Karakla, a pilgrimage center for Jain temples. Jainism is an Indian religion that prescribes a path of non-violence towards all living beings. The Jains believe that non-violence and self-control is the means by which they can obtain liberation from the cycle of reincarnations.

Here we climbed 212 steps to a Jain temple see the 42-foot statue of the Gomateshwara (Lord Bahubali), installed in 1432. Upon arrival we were all anointed with red marks on our foreheads and asked for a donation of $2.

[Linked Image]

Next we visited the Soans Farm in Moodabidri, established by missionaries in 1926 and now run as a center for agricultural innovation for cultivation of the hill areas that are dependent on rain from the monsoon season. Currently the farm is managed by the two sons of Alfred Soans. We were given a short guided tour in the fields by the charming Dr. L.C. Soans, a Botanist who studied in the US.

[Linked Image]

Our last stop was the Thousand Pillared Temple in Moodabidri, another famous Jain temple.

[Linked Image]


Leslie

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237323 04/15/13 03:46 AM
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Dreps Offline
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Here are some of the details of the "Tranquil Backwaters" excursion:

The palm fringed backwaters of Kerala are vital waterways for the transportation of goods, people and their produce. They are often the only link between isolated villages and crowded towns. In Kerala, one of the most beautiful states in India and known as "God's Own Country," the total expanse of backwater stretches from north to south over 900 miles, with a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes.

From the pier, we drove to the village of Alleppey, surrounded by coconut plantations and famous for its narrow maze of canals and backwaters. A place of immense natural beauty, Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is referred to as the Venice of the East. (There sure seem to be a lot of cities that are Venices of one direction or another, e.g., St. Petersburg.)

On the way to Alleppey, we stopped at St. Mary’s Church, where we had a great time interacting with the children attending school.

Our motor launches were waiting for us in Alleppey, where we began a leisurely boat ride past coconut thatched houses and old colonial warehouses, surrounded by very interesting scenery. You could catch a glimpse into the lives of local families living along the banks of the canals as they go about their daily household chores. In fact, we stopped at one home and took a tour inside.

There is a Snake Boat Felstival in this region, known as Vallamkali, hence the inclusion of the photo of a Snake Boat.
Following the cruise, we arrived at the Lake Palace Resort or Punnamada Resort for a lunch of Kerala “delicacies.”

After lunch, we cut short the tour as most of us had already seen the scheduled stops for Fort Cochin and the Chinese Fishing Nets and we were tired out. Nevertheless, it was a very enjoyable excursion.

Last night was our pre-arranged Indian dinner, and Ken Simpson did a superb job with the menu and the Chef (or chefs) did a terrific job with the preparation. (Even a couple of the non-Indian eaters at our table, tried and liked most of the dishes.) We had enough food for an army, but it was extremely tasty. Despite overeating such tasty and somewhat spicy food, both Gail and I slept extremely well. Maybe the claims that we’d heard about the effects of some of the spices are actually true!

I've sent Karen some photos from the excursion, and I hope to send more. But for now, it's time to get ready for dinner with Ralph and June. (Another loss at trivia today--we have some powerhouse teams with which we are competing.) Tonight is Beatles night, and I hope we have a chance to dance a little.

---------------------

Eugene (and Gail)

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237324 04/15/13 04:03 AM
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KarenS Offline
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Eugene, I never got the pictures sad


Karen

Live long and prosper
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237326 04/15/13 07:05 AM
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Anna B. Offline
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It's been awhile since I've checked in and caught up on seamail - what a treat! It's been so much fun reading all of this. Leslie, I love your collages - you take such interesting and beautiful photos. The commentaries have been great. Also loved reading about your shopping trip, Ngaire. I wouldn't worry - you always look great in everything you wear! Thanks so much to everyone for keeping us posted.


Kathy
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237327 04/15/13 04:16 PM
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AndreaN Offline
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Just in case anyone is wondering, Jerel is fine. He was at work when the explosions happened. Not a good way to wake up halfway around the world.

My heart goes out to those affected - absolutely unbelievable.

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237328 04/15/13 04:21 PM
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Mrs. Marc Offline
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Thanks for letting us know he is ok Andrea. I wonder about Mary Ellen... has anyone heard from them?


Arlene
Adventure before Dementia!
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237329 04/15/13 04:37 PM
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Pam Offline
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Mary Ellen posted on Facebook that they are okay.

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237330 04/15/13 04:51 PM
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KarenS Offline
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Posting for Eugene:

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]



Karen

Live long and prosper
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237331 04/15/13 05:21 PM
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Dreps Offline
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Thanks again.

----------------

Eugene

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237332 04/15/13 06:36 PM
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jhp Offline
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I continue to enjoy all the posts and pictures. All I can say is, I am hot and I am tired, but still loving it! You all sure have been busy!

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237333 04/16/13 12:44 AM
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Ken Offline
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A few more photos:

[Linked Image]
Temple in Cochin, India.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]
Gail, Eugene, Susan, & Dennis.

[Linked Image]
June & Ngaire in their new purchases.

[Linked Image]
Gail loves her cashews. (Photo taken by Ken S.)

[Linked Image]
Beautiful beach at Goa.

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237334 04/16/13 03:28 AM
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Leslie B Offline
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Today we took the Taste of Goa excursion.

We began with a rather long drive (our driver was a bit lost in the Goa countryside) to the Shantadurga Temple, a large Hindu temple complex dedicated to the goddess Shantadurga who mediates between Shiva and Vishnu. Got it? There was a lot going on inside, but we were only allowed to take photos outside. The temple was renovated in 1966 and looks pretty modern.

[Linked Image]

Then we drove to the nearby Spice Village for a guided plantation tour and explanation of the various spices grown, fortunately under the shade of beetle nut trees. After the tour we had a pretty good Indian buffet lunch of rice, vegetables, curried chicken, dal, spicy salads fruit and ice cream.

[Linked Image]

Our final stop was in old Goa at two churches, the Se Cathedral and the Basilica of the Born Jesus containing the relics of Saint Francis Xavier.

[Linked Image]


Leslie

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237336 04/16/13 04:21 AM
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Love all of the posts and pics. Leslie, your new format is great.


Susan Hall
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237341 04/16/13 06:13 AM
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KarenS Offline
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Posting for Andi:

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]


Karen

Live long and prosper
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237347 04/16/13 10:43 AM
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sedona Offline
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Can't see the pics above but if there is a disgusting one, that is the fish pedicure/ massage which we got in Mangalore. My feet are as soft as a baby's butt again, the others are of the evening cocktail party and the gals in all their lovelynew clothes flanked by Eugene.

We are slowly cruising up India's western coastline, almost midway up and have just left our second to last port,Goa. As with other cities we visited, Goa is a former Portuguese colony, but unlike the other cities, it remained under Portugal until it was annexed by India in 1961.

We have truly had it with big bus tours. No matter how good the tours are, when 2-9 buses of 50 people descend on a site, in 90+ heat and humidity, it just doesnt feel like luxury.

Regent cruise line sends us out tour selections 9 months in advance which read "taste of Goa: experience a full day of all the fascinating culture this beautiful city has to offer, including a visit to a spice farm and a gourmet Indian feast." So, we select our included tours as Regent is all inclusive.

Once you get on board the description is expanded to read: this 5 hour tour is as follows: drive 2 hours to temple. You must be dressed appropriately with long sleeves, long pants or dress ( 90 + degree weather) and must remove your shoes..please remember socks as pavement will be hot. This stop will require you to climb 227 stairs. You will spend 30 minutes. Then you will go to the spice farm. This will be another 30 minute ride on the bus. You will spend 30 minutes. You will drive 30 minutes to lunch and restroom break. 1 hour. Drive home 2 hours."

Goa is renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture.

We decided to forego the places of worship and world heritage architecture and to opt into a tour which included yet another Asian beach to add to our beach collection ( one Thailand, 2 Sri Lanka). Darn, missed Malaysia.

This tour would take us to a 5 star Taj property, which is equivalent to a Ritz Carlton or Four Seasons. Doug realized that the 5 1/2 hour tour only included a mere 2 hours at the beach: 2 hours were transit and 1.5 was an ethnographic museum and an outdoor folkloric dance presentation, which would have been delightful in 97 degree weather. So, we thought....hmmm...take a taxi early to the resort...skip the museum...and spend the day at the resort, hopping the bus just for the ride home. The destination desk was not terribly fond of our taking a taxi by ourselves. They kept stressing it was a hour ride. We responded that it would still be one hour whether it were taxi or bus and they acquiesced and worked things out for us. Doug negotiated $10 apiece for 4 of us (Eugene and Gail joined us) and we were off.

Goa is India's richest state with a GDP per capita two and a half times that of the country as a whole. It was ranked on top for the best quality of life in India by the National Commission on Population based on 12 Indicators.Along the way, we passed gorgeous, upscale homes in the prettiest of tropical settings, and pulled into the most elegant resort during our trip to date.

The elegant green lawns went on forever and there were plenty of chairs. We grabbed some on the beach and had a great day playing in the surf. I really have to write a book "Great Beach Resorts of Asia." Most of the tours here seem to offer mostly churches, temples ( Hindu, Buddhist and a few synagogues), markets, heat and humidity...powdery beaches and fine resorts are your best choices unless you really are into religion and sweating.

Tomorrow is our final port of call...Mumbai. We are spending 8 hours in a tour bus getting an in-depth perspective of churches, temples, heat, humanity....

We are disembarking the day after next, but since many of us are going on a land post trip to the Taj Mahal, we had to pack tonight and get some of our bags out tonight. It was sad to realize the trip is nearing its end.










Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237349 04/16/13 04:25 PM
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We are approaching Mumbai and should be docking shortly. The forecast is for a high of 86 today. Not bad. Those wo are doing the extension have 100 plus degre weather to look forward to in Jaipur and Agra.

We have another face to face immigration procedure for everyone this morning before leaving the ship for our tours. And more formalities when we disembark.

This is our last day - we are taking a private tour with Sharon and Dick. We leave the ship around 8:30 PM for the airport to catch our BA flight at 2:30 AM. They are repositioning the ship to another dock to ight so we have to leave earlier than initially planned. We will have lots of time at the airport, and I hope they open the BA lounge early! We have to put our bags out before we leave on our tour this morning so I am off to get organized.


Leslie

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237350 04/16/13 04:34 PM
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Here's a description of our time in Mangalore:

Monday, our “Highlights” tour of Mangalore began with a tour of the Achal Cashew processing plant. Monday was a holiday, but the plant was opened for us because of the excursion. Mangalore is the world's principal cashew-nut port and is recognized as the “birthplace of organized cashew nut processing.” At the plant, our guide, Sharon, attempted to herd us around to show us the specific processing steps, which were interesting. However, there were several buses, and it was very crowded in the small plant. I think that the most interesting aspects were the women shelling and skinning the nuts. We were told that the workers received about $2.50 a day in wages. We bought a 250 gram bag of cashews for $5. Then, we actually each received a smaller bag as a gift.

Our next stop was at Gokarnath Temple. This temple, which was recently renovated, is dedicated to Lord Gokarnath and is considered an excellent example of the modern architecture created by the Billawa Community of Mangalore. The temple is visited daily by those wishing to seek the blessing of the Lord Gokarnath. If you go to these various temples, remember to take a pair of socks so that you don’t have to walk on the hot ground. (It’s a great opportunity to use the airline socks provided in overnight flights.)

After our visit to the temple, we went to the St. Aloysius Chapel, which is compared to the Sistine Chapel in Rome. That may be a bit of stretch, but it was pretty impressive. Intricate paintings cover virtually every square inch of the interior ceiling and walls. They were created over a period for two years by Brother Antonio Moscheni, an Italian artist. One series depicts many of the important events in the life of Christ. Unfortunately, no photos were allowed.

Our final tour stop before returning to the pier as at the private home of a “typical” Mangalorean family. I used quotes because I think this was a very well to do Here, you can enjoy learning about local life and customs while being treated to some light refreshment.

We had a very enjoyable dinner with June and Ralph. After dinner we hurried to the Horizon Lounge for Beatles Night. I am happy to say, that this group of entertainers involving only a couple of the principal singers did a credible job, and the dance floor was mobbed. The 45-minute entertainment flew by, and we were all sorry when it came to an end.

Yesterday, we went to the Taj Exotica resort with Doug and Andi. It was terrific. A couple Regent buses arrived later as part of an excursion, but we wanted more time, so we had taken a taxi earlier. (Many on the excursion were envious that we had a couple of hours more than they at the resort.) The taxi had only cost $40 (after Doug's bargaining at the pier) for the four of us for the 45-minute drive, and let me tell you it was a lot better than the cramped bus that we took back with the returning excursions. It was at least the second bus we've had in India that had non-existent shock absorbers.

Trivia was ridiculous--the stupidest questions ever--not just hard, e.g., we were given three choices for the total number of airports on the U.S. Or how many meals does a hummingbird eat each day? The winning team had a score of 7 out of 15. I think our team got 2 out of 15!

We had another excellent dinner in Signatures with Brad, Leslie, Ken, and Sheila. Then it was off to finish packing our bags that were not going with us on our post-cruise tour to the Taj Mahal.

I don't know if I'll get a chance to send anymore photos to Karen. I think that the post-cruise tour is jam packed with early mornings.

---------------------

Eugene

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237352 04/16/13 08:37 PM
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We are in Mumbai right now and only one night left. Where has the time gone. Today we are staying onboard. We have spent quite a bit of time in Mumbai and we are coming back for two days after the post trip to the Taj Mahal and staying at the Taj Hotel so we will have time when we return if we wish to do anything else.

As previously noted by Andi in an earlier post I DID GO SHOPPING and even with all my problems had success. The secret was finding a mall where locals shop and a store that had Indian clothes that actually fit westerners. I bought three outfits. June was with me and she bought three outfits as well. We had a great time finding things that actually worked.

June and I considered going to another mall today and see if we could do a bit more damage but the malls are a long way from here and I do not cherish the idea of going store to store from the street. A mall makes it so much easier. The shopper is not that strong in me to deal with all the negotiation, some love it I do not.

Last night June and I wore our Indian outfits, Susan and Meredith bought stunning outfits. Eugene was "smashing" in his white suit and Bo was very handsome with a new custom made shirt. Meredith even had a bindi I have some bindis from my last trip but left them at home. Home dumb was that!!! At dinner an Indian women came up to the table and said that June and I looked great. She was obviously pleased we were wearing Indian clothing. We had a great dinner with Franck he is such a nice man and a very good GM. Rack of lamb of course with all the trimmings including roasted pumpkin that I love.

Ken took pictures last night. He will try and post those today.

We have had great get together every night in the Observation Lounge, what a great group of people. We were fortunate to get our own bus for the post land program to the Taj as there are 34 of us going so that will be fun.

Ken had an adventure in Cochin I have not posted about. He decided he wanted to do what some of our friends do and get a LOCAL haircut. The local advisor on the ship told him to get a taxi to the Grand Hotel. The Grand Hotel was not so grand! Next to the Grand Hotel was the barber shop. Ken said they washed his hair first, then massaged his head - that he loved. He said it was one of the best haircuts he has had and cost at a cost of $5. What a deal! I think he really enjoyed that experience.

This has been a great trip, totally calm seas every day of the cruise. It has been hot but tolerable I have been hotter in Europe in August. It is interesting how some people see things so differently. One tour in Goa visited some churches. One person was blown away by the churches and loved them, another person said "nothing there just some old churches". As always, different strokes for different folks. We have taken a taxi three times. The negotiation and hassle in getting the taxis you can look at as frustrating or a "hoot" depending on your point of view. We had two excellent experiences with good drivers and one bad experience with a bad driver. Pricing varied tremendously in each port and the larger the car the higher the price.

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237353 04/16/13 09:17 PM
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Ken Offline
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Formal Night:

[Linked Image]
Meredith, Bo, Ngaire, Eugene, & June.

[Linked Image]

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Meredith, June, Ngaire, & Susan.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]
Franck & Ngaire.

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237354 04/17/13 05:02 AM
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KarenS Offline
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Now that is one good looking group!


Karen

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Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237355 04/17/13 06:25 AM
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What wonderful pictures! I have loved following your entire trip, I wish it could go forever. I love seeing your beautiful Indian outfits, the fabric looks gorgeous. Hi to Franck from us.

Tom stayed at the Taj Hotel for 4 months (when Mumbai was Bombay) I think you'll like this hotel a lot. Thanks for such nice pictures Ken.


Marcie

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237357 04/17/13 07:18 AM
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ssclbc Offline
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Beautiful photos of a beautiful group! I love the turquoise outfit on Susan. Stunning!


Lauri
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237358 04/17/13 07:25 AM
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Great pictures. Ngaire, your new outfit is lovely and the colors are very pretty on you. Hope you wear it on PAGODA so we can see it in person. All of the ladies looked lovely in their Indian outfits actually.

Sounds like everyone had a great time. Sorry to see it over. Thanks for all the reports and pictures.


JoAnn
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237359 04/17/13 09:17 AM
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mes Offline
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Wow! You all look great....love yours and June's Indian clothing...sounds like it has been such fun....happy for you! Eugene does look great in his whites...glad June and Ralph are enjoying, too...miss you all...hugs



Mary Elaine and David
Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237361 04/17/13 10:16 AM
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KarenS Offline
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Posting for Andi:

[Linked Image]


Karen

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Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237362 04/17/13 10:55 AM
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Leslie B Offline
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And finally, around Mumbai and the Elephanta Caves

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]


Leslie

Re: TAJ MAHAL- SEA MAIL [Re: Ngaire] #237363 04/17/13 11:24 AM
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Betty K Offline
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Great reports and terrific photos. Thanks for posting them.


Betty

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