We love Istanbul!

Even in the confusing maze of streets otherwise known as the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul impressed us greatly with its civic pride, friendly citizens who welcome tourists, amazing history and culture, and most of all its well-kept parks and public monuments.

The have a clean and efficient tramway system even we could figure out. And here is the photo of the lovely couple behind us in line that got a big chuckle out of us dropping coins from the jeton matic...which promptly rolled across cobblestones about 15 feet. I was telling Tom to hurry and catch the lira coin (so we could buy another jeton token) but they were laughing at how the lira kept wobbling away from Tom's foot and finding an alternate path down the hill.

Mykonos

Just a quick update-without pics as they have not been transferred-that we had a lovely non-windy (!) day in Mykonos and are headed into Istanbul. Pics of both and a longer blog post tonight.

You know you are in Egypt

If this is the sight out your window. And this is the Diet Coke you got at lunch.

We had a long and tiring day, but yes, we made it to the Pyramids and Sphinx. Very glad to have done so.

Onboard

We are onboard for a little over a day now, lovely ship, great food and entertainment, nice table mates and a lovely sea day today. We had little that we HAD to do yet managed to fill the day with lectures and food and meetings and food and formal night and yes, more food.

Mid morning found us passing through the Straight of Messina separating Sicily from the Italian mainland.

For Giuliana (that's Italian for Julianna)

Here is the postcard you asked for last May:

Goodbye France hello Rome

We had a sunset from the Eiffel Tower and made our way the next morning to catch a flight to Rome. Arrived with a few clouds and showers but nothing a rain coat could not handle. Weather cleared and we ventured a short walk to the Spanish steps, then to a little
Restaurant nearby. Off to catch our boat.

Off to Rome

Just a quick update before we head off to Rome; more pictures to come later. May not have access until we are on the ship so stay tuned.....