David's Cruise

Tuesday 19th July 2022

It might be an unwelcome sign of climate change,  I had been to parts of North America which are notoriously hot in the summer, e.g. Costa Rica, Mexico and (parts of) the United States.  But to arrive in the U.K. during a heatwave reminiscent of the climate in Aruba was rare indeed, even if the gloom-mongers prophecy “worse to come.”  Unfortunately, they are probably right.  Today is billed as the hottest day ever in the U.K., and for once, I tend to agree.

Wednesday 20th July 2022

Rarely am I thankful when a period of hot weather comes to an end. But, with windows upstairs open to let in the night air, I was, indeed thankful as a cool breeze brushed over while I was half asleep. Today is 20th July, and there is still plenty of summer left for more decent weather.

There is quite a respectable number of people who followed the blog account of my travels this year.  This is the 4th year (out of 5) that I have travelled more than 77 days out of the Country. Next year will (probably) be the last as energy etc dwindles!  I don’t ever want these mega trips to merely become the norm.

Three out of four trips abroad this year were impulse buys, the two Caribbean cruises at the beginning of the year, and Norway in September. The cruise industry shut down early in 2020 because of the pandemic, which although much more under control now, is still with us.  Towards the end of last year, particularly in the U.K., life was almost back to normal, thanks very much to what most of us consider to be the very efficient roll-out of vaccinations, which while not preventing one from contracting covid-19, the effects of such are reduced from life threatening to merely very unpleasant.

One Million Steps on and Between Two Continents.

Having completed the Christian Aid sponsored challenge in 2021 to complete 300,000 steps during the 31 days of May last year, and raising a respectable four-figure amount, I decided to go one further this year, and attempt to walk at least one million steps during my time out of the Country including the days setting off from Southampton.

2022 started with two 28 night voyages to the Caribbean on board Queen Mary 2.  The first cruise in January had been booked some months previously, but was, nevertheless, an impulse buy. Only an inside cabin was available, but that did not detract from my having a superb time throughout. And, I made a good start with the walking, including a fairly difficult but hugely scenic coastal hike on the isle of St. Maarten.

There were spectacular offers on two further Caribbean cruises, and I opted for the voyage almost immediately following this one.  The cruise in January went out via Lisbon, the second, in February, via New York in both directions.

While there were, what appeared to be a good number of passengers, the evening entertainment venues were very quiet in terms of people attending.  The Golden Lion Pub was, however, usually quite busy, but less so anywhere else.  Despite the obvious difficulties due to the pandemic, apart from the lack of cocktail gatherings, and Captain’s parties, cancelled because of social distancing restrictions, I felt the service on board was up to the expected standards, and was rather impressed. This led me to impulse buy that “bargain basement” hugely discounted second trip in February! Jo, from two previous voyages, joined me for this second Caribbean trip, and I appreciated having a travelling companion on this rare occasion.

Cruise to Alaska, The Overland, and return on Queen Mary 2, May 2nd – July 15th.

This was the planned, but much altered “biggie” originally scheduled for the summer of 2020. Then, the round the world itinerary was QM2 to New York, Amtrak “Lake Shore Ltd” to Chicago, Amtrak “Empire Builder” to Seattle, Amtrak “Cascades” to Vancouver, Cunard “Queen Elizabeth” 49 night cruise in Alaska, then to and around Japan, British Airways 1st Class (at a very preferential rate) to Heathrow and, home by train. This was postponed to 2021, then cancelled altogether. An alternative itinerary was then offered with flying to Tokyo, and doing more or less the same itinerary but in reverse order. That, too, was cancelled! Then, 10 days of the Alaska cruise was reinstated. Rather than cancel my journeys on Amtrak, which already had been booked, I would now fly to Vancouver and complete my heavily revised trip. I would then learn that Queen Elizabeth would be sailing from Southampton on a repositioning voyage, ready for the start of its Alaska season in 2022 and connecting perfectly with my 10 night Alaska cruise, again on QueenElizabeth but in a different stateroom to the one from Southampton. My flight was thus cancelled and a full refund contributed towards the cost of sailing rather than flying, thus adding another 33 nights to the already long itinerary. Japan will have to wait another day!

I have yet to calculate the final mileage of this journey; well over 8,200 miles were covered overland in the U.S.A. almost all by rail.

I enjoyed a glass fronted balcony stateroom on board Queen Elizabeth for the 33 night sailing from Southampton to Vancouver, and again for the 10 day Alaska cruise. The highlight of that was Glacier Bay, and also walking over a suspension bridge at Sitka, when from some very nearby trees, a number of bald eagles unexpectedly took flight, “right under my nose!” At least one circled above before settling on a tree on the other side of the highway, posing, giving me ample time to take pictures, on the Lumix!

I would also regard Afternoon Tea at the Empress at Victoria as another memorable occurrence.

The bus and railtour over the 24 nights between leaving Queen Elizabeth in Vancouver and joining QM2 in New York covered as much as possible in the time available. I would get to visit Seattle, Chicago, Flagstaff (unintentionally!) Grand Canyon, L.A. New Orleans (NOLA), Washington and New York on what was very much a whistle-stop but highly enjoyable tour, which I called The Overland.

Thursday 21st July 2022

I suppose people will be relieved this morning. It’s much cooler, and it appears to have rained during the night. I am continuing to enjoy looking back over my recent trip to North America and putting together a kind of Best Of review. There were, of course, numerous great moments, very few minor disappointments and the occasional frustration, not bad for so long away. For some reason, I cannot recall anything hilariously funny, but I’m sure, during the time away, there were amusing occurrences. There was never anywhere during the journey that I was glad to leave, not even Flagstaff at 1 am! I enjoyed New Orleans and didn’t lose too much sleep despite the outside street noise, which at times, I joined in! My booked river cruise turned out to have been double-booked with a private party, all of whom were dressed completely in white. This is some kind of annual event which I didn’t really get to comprehend. Fortunately, my Mississippi River and dinner cruise was merely postponed to the following and final night in New Orleans. Two jazz bands played on different decks, the buffet dinner was far better than I was expecting, and a fiery sunset brought the curtain down on yet another wonderful day and evening.

Washington DC was the penultimate “port of call” on this ambitious tour of the U.S. I was very taken with this most charismatic of capital cities, right from getting off the train into a biblical downpour of rain. The first thing you see ahead of you from the station entrance is the Capitol Building with its instantly recognisable dome. The taxi driver was cheesed off with my request for a destination (the Hyatt Regency) being around a quarter of a mile away! But, it was throwing it down, and couldn’t drum up much sympathy for this trip not being a big earner. With a face as long as a presidential address, he still ripped me off! However, it wasn’t long before the rain had stopped and I was exploring.

Meeting my great nephew and his girlfriend was an unexpected and great pleasure, and was probably the highlight of my all too short time in America’s Capital.

I enjoyed the high speed ACELA train journey from “D.C.” to New York, merely a stopover before my commute on Queen Mary 2 back to Southampton. I did have the morning to myself in the Big Apple. Seeing the Empire State Building in reasonable walking distance, I headed there to go up and take more spectacular photographs from its 86th floor. Almost there, and I got approached (that’s a kind word) by more than one pavement agent selling open top bus tours. I was assured that I would be returned to where I started from in an hour. Thus, after much pestering, I changed my plans and opted for what I thought was a quick trip around Manhattan. The first bus was full, and by the time the next bus came, it was getting dangerously close to the time I needed to drive to the cruise terminal. The bus driver informed me that the entire trip was two and a half hours. Thus, I had allowed myself to be conned out of $69.00! In the scheme of things, 69 bucks is merely annoying, a bit like a parking ticket, except I did nothing wrong. The bus company, Top View Sightseeing have generously offered me a replacement ticket valid for one day anytime in the next twelve months. Not much use in Buxton! E-mail correspondence continues between me and Top View Sightseeing who appear fiercely proud of their reputation as caring organisation of great integrity. And for 69 bucks, I beg to differ!

Although I have done this a few times now, sailing back from New York to Southampton was the continued pleasure one can derive, a bit like repeated performances of Handel’s Messiah!

In the end, from January 14th to February 11th, February 14th to March 14th. and May 2nd to midnight July 14th, for Christian Aid Week 2022, I walked 1,507,496 steps over a period of 130 days, averaging 11,596 steps each of those days. That equates to around 523 miles. And I had great fun and satisfaction so doing!

Thank you all for reading; my next blogs will be less exotic!

David, at home, 09.58, 21st July 2022

For this final day at sea, somewhere near the coast of Southern Ireland (‘though obviously so far, I can’t actually see it) I thought that a celebratory breakfast in the Britannia Restaurant might be fitting. I was only just in time, but I still managed to have a fine starboard side seat next to a window.

As you will see from these pictures, it is, yet again, a fine day, with fewer clouds than yesterday, which was also pretty good.  This has been what I might call a brochure crossing, with decent weather the whole way across.  Britain, I understand is basking in continental style sunshine with the media predicting record temperatures.  I never rely on the newspapers for weather predictions, however. And with luck, I won’t arrive home just in time for a customary change to a miserable wet summer! 

The main suitcase is now packed with no further room therein.  That is ready now for transfer to the terminal.  I went up to the Carinthia Lounge to see Paul Garthwaite play his 22 string guitar.  I  bought his 2 CDs!  Then I remembered, I no longer have a CD player!  I first came across him and his partner Kathryn on the QM2 2018 World Voyage. 

Now to return to my cabin to hopefully (almost) complete the packing. But outside, it’s gorgeous. I am waiting for the final consignment of laundry to be returned. Then I should have a better idea of any possible lack of capacity issues.  

I took a leaf out of somebody’s book I got into conversation with, who said that he missed his lunch and had Afternoon Tea in lieu.  I did that on purpose today.  Again, I passed on the cake, but not the scones, and enjoyed four cups of tea.  I am joining friends for drinks in the Chart Room on Deck 3. 

But having to be off the ship by twenty to nine tomorrow morning, I really must resist a late night tonight. Knowing that I should be on here again in September, and for the long haul in January, I see no real urgency to get in as much as I can on this last day. 

I am told that QM2 has been around 80% full on this crossing, and certainly, there were not the almost empty entertainment venues I remember in January and February.  The voyage to Alaska was still affected by the continuing pandemic and resultant (perceived) staff shortages.   Frequently, there were more people in the band than passengers in the Queens Room.  But, full marks (and more) to Cunard for maintaining its on board programme of activities as if the ship was full.    Thankfully, these days seem to be over, with Cunard promoting an impressive repertoire of future voyages, including, from January 2024, with a four ship fleet.  And isn’t this a coincidence, the Maiden Voyage of Queen Anne is 20 years (less 8 days) from that of Queen Mary 2 on January 12th 2004.  It’s less of a coincidence that I will have been on both, as well as on that of Queen Victoria in 2007.  None of this seems all that long ago! 

Hopefully I can continue packing; I didn’t get much sunbathing or walking in today.

23.33 hrs. Both wheeled suitcases are packed and sent for transfer to the terminal. I have a hold-all and two carrier bags which I don’t think will be a problem. This crossing was the Grand Finale of this tour and tonight, mountains of luggage are scattered around the stateroom areas on most decks. So, that’s it, the big trip is almost at an end. Reality beckons!

Folks, I hope you have enjoyed some, at least, of my account of this journey. Thanks for reading, David 23.42 On board QM2. This time tomorrow night, I shall be at home for the first time since May 1st.

Including disembarkation at Southampton, perhaps it should be Days 72 and 73/75. However, my Steps Challenge for Christian Aid ends at midnight tomorrow, 14th July.

12th July 2022.

At ten minutes past midnight this morning, according to Captain Hall in his noon address today, he announced that at 00.10 hrs, we were exactly halfway to Southampton. 

I attended Alastair Greener’s excellent account of the life and times of the former Cunard liner, now Hotel in Dubai, Queen Elizabeth 2. My very first cruise was on this ship in December 1988, but I no longer can get into my very first tuxedo!  After the lecture, I joined a handful of others who wanted to add their stories, all of which were fascinating and well worth hearing.  A few of us joined him in the Carinthia Lounge for an hour or so in the late afternoon.

 

Just two full days remain before the return to reality, which I still (naturally) have mixed feelings about.  But all good things do have to come to an end, and I was expecting to be far more “saddened” as this holiday of a lifetime accelerates towards July 15th.  So, I have to start thinking about packing, one last effort to safely put everything away for the journey home.

Wednesday 13th July

When I looked at the TV Navigational Channel on waking up this morning, it was 9.30!   I’m going to have to do better than that the day after tomorrow when I’m asked to leave Queen Mary 2 at 08.45hrs.  Last night, I joined people for dinner, including a couple I dined with the previous evening.  Cunard laid on a comedian for the main show.  He must have been quite good because I was laughing much of the time.  Even so, his show was much of a muchness.  Again afterwards, I looked in on a couple venues. Wigan lass Georgina Jackson who learned the trumpet at 8 years of age had long since perfected her craft and was entertaining in a crowded Queens Room where it was difficult to find a convenient seat.  I moved on; the Irish duo had the punters in the Golden Lion in the palms of their hands; I moved on, intending to get that extra lap in on the Promenade Deck. I bumped into Kelvin whose limo I shared in New York for the ride from the hotel to the cruise terminal in Brooklyn.  I did walk eventually and have just 9,484 steps to hit the final target of 1.5 million, total for the entire Challenge.  The plan is to complete this challenge, tonight, a day early.  Again, the seas are calm, and it remains cool in the shade.  There is no adjustment to the time today. We remain at GMT.  It’s safe to contact home, now, without the risk of waking people up at 3am!  Crew Drill this morning was completed before I was ready to start walking.  Now I am ready.  My body clock says it’s 07.44, but in reality, the Captain’s noon day address is in just 15 minutes.

I shouldn’t have stayed up so late last night, in conversation. I don’t think I have ever met a Vietnam War Veteran before. Maybe I have without knowing it. His philosophy on life may be completely different to mine, but I was amazed at his quiet conversation, and could talk with him and his wife for hours, given the opportunity.

The last 9,484 steps feel the hardest. However, I am just around 300 steps away from that final target of 1.5 million which I have revised twice on this recent 74 or 75 day journey which took me between 9° and 59° north of the Equator.

The dreaded packing is underway. But this is hampered by this evening being a Gala/Formal night. That means keeping the tuxedo out until either late tonight or tomorrow. I have just enjoyed tea and scones (no cakes or sandwiches) at today’s Afternoon Tea in the Queens Room where the harpist returned to entertain the cake and sandwich eaters. The room is completely empty now as cleaners vacuum this venue for tonight’s Roaring Twenties themed celebrations. It is now 17.08 hrs GMT, just 1 hour behind U.K. Time.

After around half an hour in the Queens Room, following dinner, I decided on an earlier night, the remainder of the packing being put off until the next day

Many thanks for reading. David, having just got up the following morning.

Today is Sunday 10th July.  This morning, after a much needed good sleep (the second such kip on board), I awoke in a much better state than I was in yesterday.  I did attend a couple of lectures yesterday, but the energy to walk far was just not there. I guess travel fatigue had still got the better of me. Or had my sugar levels risen again? 

I attended the Interdemoninational Church Service at 10 o’clock, conducted by Captain Andrew Hall whom I remember from a previous stint on QM2.  Attendance dispelled the continual media assertion that church congregations are declining.  And the hymns were reasonable favourites of mine also, with the pianist trying out Michael Williams-esque unusual harmonies/descants during the the last verse!  (Those of you who attend St. John’s, Buxton, may know what I mean…even Michael Williams!)  Sunday Worship on board Queen Mary 2 takes much from the Book of Common Prayer, the liturgy I grew up with and never saw any reason to change.  Both the young ship’s crew acquitted themselves well reading what I assume were the appointed lessons for the 5th Sunday after Pentecost.  Have I been away that long ?! 

Monday 11th July 2022

09.45 hrs. 

Yesterday was pretty routine, and eventually, I  continued walking.  I have set myself one final target, 1.5 million steps by midnight on 14th July. 9,232 steps/day for the remaining four full days of this journey should “do it.” 

Again yesterday, Sunday, was unexpectedly warm as numerous passengers  basked in the sunshine.  This morning the skies remain crystal clear as we navigate the Grand Banks area on our third sea day en route for Southampton.  This morning, the sun rose at 04.39, and the long day ends at 20.52.  I awoke after a night where I learned every inch of the route to the bathroom! 

After a pleasant evening of dinner and convivial conversation, both there, and in the Golden Lion Pub where an Irish folk duo entertained a respectable fun-loving crowd, I returned to my palace of a stateroom where outside was posted a letter, which would remind me that I hadn’t registered my credit card.  After being unable to last night, I did, this morning, register my card to cover any on-board expenses, e.g. a new pair of trousers!  

My sugar levels must be up today as once again, I am struggling to motivate myself to walk, although as I write, I am almost at today’s modest target.  At tea this afternoon (still no cake!) the ship’s pianist serenades a full Queens Room with a baroque inspired selection of music.  This is all very genteel and civilised. Being full, I was seated with somebody who I felt did not wish to be disturbed.  Customary pleasantries were exchanged; although, if one wishes solitude, I’m not sure whether formal Afternoon Tea is the ideal place for such peace and tranquillity. However, she continued her writing, and I mine and in fact, the arrangement worked reasonably well!  I now suspect it’s the four plus cups of tea which has me road-learning the bathroom….or several bathrooms!

I am enjoying these final days on Queen Mary 2. Earlier on in my travels, I was rather apprehensive about this cruise and overland odyssey drawing to a close.  Far from it!  The leaving of Brooklyn, although wet, had not lost its sense of occasion, adventure, and anticipation. And I was on the high decks as we skimmed under the Verrazano Narrows Suspension Bridge, to the delight of a cheering gathering of passengers.  I had already looked across at Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, remembering with much pleasure, having visited both earlier this year.  On that occasion, the crossing was rough and exhausting, probably in part, because I managed to catch covid-19 towards the end!  Strangely, that did me a favour,  the illness acting as a kind of booster jab and making it very unlikely I would be ill again anytime soon. 

This time, the seas are almost like a millpond.  I remember little of the first sea day, but yesterday and today, it has been clear,pleasant and sunny.  Some people spotted a huge pod of whales, which became the talk around the ship.  Yesterday, I spotted a school of dolphins later in the afternoon, and I think that both yesterday and today, there was much for the keen observer to see. I saw birds skimming across the water in search of what this part of the ocean has to offer.  There were many “disturbances” which might have indicated sea life. I wasn’t sure. 

But so far, this is a nice crossing and I hate to admit it, but I shall be fairly glad to be in Buxton on Friday afternoon.   Then the fun will begin.  A mountain of post to deal with, and junk mail to send to the “starving” landfill sites.  If I can’t open the bonnet (hood) of my red car, that’s another call-out for the A.A.  I will show my face at Buxton International Festival, once a huge part of a previous, pre-heart attack life.  Although I volunteer very little for them these days, I am regularly kept in touch with, something which I appreciate greatly.  And my tuxedo will be put to use at the second Opera Gala Dinner at the Crescent Hotel.  Already this spa hotel is destination in its own right.

I have achieved today’s walking schedule, the late afternoon being a more agreeable period to take in the fresh air of the North Atlantic. 

As well as “lapping” the Promenade Deck a few times, I re-explored the heights of Decks 12, 13, and the area above the cabins on Deck 13.  Is this officially Deck 14?  I will need to check. (I ascertain later that this walking area above the cabins on Deck 13 is NOT deck 14!)

Now, to change for dinner.  It’s already 8pm!

I joined a table for 8 right by the window, and enjoyed another extremely pleasant meal before going along to tonight’s show. I then walked around looking in at various venues before one final deck walk and, at the midnight buffet, a mischievous sandwich.

It feels like a busy day tomorrow.

Many thanks for reading,

David, 00.32hrs The Kings Court

I wrote little of my journey from Washington to New York yesterday; that was unintentional.  But, there is not a lot, actually, to write about.  I was on an original ACELA train with high speed electric locomotives at each end.  My First Class coach was at the rear, negating the need to negotiate my cumbersome luggage the full length of the train at Washington.  And I didn’t have to on arrival at Penn Station in New York City, but it felt like a long walk to the Moynihan Train Hall.  and its appropriate exit for the Marriott Fairfield Inn and Suites directly opposite.  America doesn’t really do high speed trains, but ACELA was no disappointment.  Dinner, although not massive, was served on proper badged china, some of which I hope may find its way (legally) into my collection!   I cannot believe that these Business and First Class  trains are due to be replaced.  They are (I believe) slightly older than our Pendolinos, and given better infrastructure on which to run, would be infinitely better.  Like the previous more traditional trains I travelled on, you can be thrown in a way that at first is a tad alarming.  But the North East Corridor, i.e.  Washington, New York, and Boston is an impressive well used system.  This was an appropriate and fitting way to complete just over 8,000 miles on Amtrak. 

I thoroughly enjoyed the journey which I devised and requested my travel agent to arrange.  Originally, this was to be by ship to New York, train(s) to Vancouver, cruise to Alaska and on to Japan before a lunchtime west bound First Class flight back from Tokyo to the UK.   Covid-19 curtailed this holiday, both in 2020 and 2021.  A further plan was to fly eastbound to Tokyo and continue in the same direction, firstly around Japan, across to Alaska, and eventually eastbound by train across/around America and home on QM2. That, too, was cancelled due to the pandemic, but with the last days of the Alaska cruise being reinstated, and the sailing from New York still in tact, the next plan was to fly out to Vancouver, join the Alaska cruise and continue with the revised and already rebooked itinerary.  Then, I was made aware of a 33 night repositioning voyage of Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth which connected perfectly with the sailing from Vancouver around S.E. Alaska, which also remained unaffected.   Thus a revised and final itinerary was put into place, which I have written about since May 2nd.  Being such a long journey, the first early days are but a kaleidoscopic merge of good and interesting memories which I am already starting to sort out. 

I might be hesitant to heartily recommend an Amtrak holiday; but I thoroughly enjoyed these lengthy times on trains.  With luck, I may just squeeze in more such travel on routes over which I have yet to travel.

Some Highlights:-  Kennedy Space Center,  the concert in Grant Park, Grand Canyon,  Meeting my Great Nephew and girlfriend in Washington, and finally, my super-duper studio/single cabin on QM2 which I am more than happy with. 

This is more like a small boutique hotel room with a higher than usual ceiling and decent picture window.  There are just 9 such staterooms on Deck 2 where once people enjoyed the now smaller casino.  Today is the first full day of six at sea and I still haven’t unpacked completely.  I have been presented with a spectacular bouquet of flowers to enhance my accommodation, along with a bottle of champagne.  That was a surprise!  

A calm, but not sunbathingly warm crossing is predicted.  I do like this “transatlantic commute!”

This morning,  9th July, I attended a very good lecture on the History of Cunard charting 180 years.  It was well put together,  researched, and superbly delivered in 45 minutes.  But the afternoon lecture on Crossing the Atlantic did not inspire to the same degree.  After this, I adjourned to the Queens Room for Afternoon Tea, something I don’t plan doing very often.  I relaxed at a table by myself as a string trio serenaded the tea-takers with a playlist  from Vivaldi to Leonard Bernstein, at the stage end of the dance floor.

I chose not to dress up this evening, for the Red and Gold Gala Night.  Instead, I found a quiet table in the Kings Court eatery.

I walked little today.  Tomorrow, I intend to catch up.  24 days of laundry have been submitted for washing and ironing!  

What a way to finish a blog!  Nevertheless, many thanks for reading.  David 9th July  23.18hrs in the Kings Court on board QM2.

Lucy, Many many thanks for enabling me to Live the Dream.  Actually, thanks to my long association with Fred.\Holidays and its predecessors, I have lived many dreams. And eventually, when I am back in Buxton once again,  I hope that my preposterous travel ideas can continue to come to fruition. But, the Antarctic isn’t one of them! 

I honestly thought that yesterday’s nocturnal tour around Washington would act as The Grand Finale of my 75 night tour.   Today, I had the enormous pleasure of meeting my great nephew and his girlfriend, not in his home city of Lancaster U.K, but in America’s capital.  It was a joyous meeting and very novel for all three of us meeting, almost by coincidence, so very far from home. We spent almost two hours over a coffee at Union Station, which is a must-see destination in its own right. We would then take the short walk to Capitol Hill, all three of us looking on in sheer amazement.

It seemed almost rude to be leaving this fine and charismatic city so soon after arriving just the day before yesterday. Nor I didn’t particularly want to say goodbye to my great nephew and his girlfriend, and thus made a commitment to see them both in the U.K. this autumn. However, much as Preston (or Lancaster) are fine cities in the North of England, they don’t quite have the same sense of occasion as Washington D.C. All the places in North America that I stopped at, I do want to spend more time in. Whether the opportunity will present itself again, or I create that opportunity remains to be seen.

I have made my final train journey over here, and the Amtrak ticket has been put away in the “used-up file.” But there’s one final treat. My 20th floor hotel room has a fabulous view across New York to the One World Trade Center.

I have discovered that if I shut down my phone, and then energise it again, I can take a picture before the “storage full sign” prevents further photography.

But, I have a bit to do, tomorrow. I shall try and obtain a print-out of my covid-19 vaccination certificate. It is on the phone, but if the WiFi at the cruise terminal is dodgy, I may still have a problem boarding.

First Class on Acela trains offer a fairly decent meal. But I could do with something before my final night’s sleep in the U.S.A. This morning (this afternoon in the U.K.), I learned that our prime minister has seen fit for somebody else to lead his Party…..in a speech he gave outside what will soon be not his front door. Tomorrow is another day.

Thank you for reading and following my blog. It looks as if I have walked 500 miles in my Challenge to raise sponsorship funds for Christian Aid, with a steps total now well in excess of 1.4 million. However, much as I will try, 1.5 million by the end of July 14th is a tough call.

David, 21.41hrs Fairfield Inn and Suites, New York, 7/7/22.

If the Tchaikovsky in Chicago, and if the Grand Canyon were highlights of this tour, and I see little of New York before checking in at the Cruise Terminal at 14.15hrs, then WASHINGTON D.C. was the GRAND FINALE!

Despite warnings not to walk alone, my Concierge, Darryl, has given me a simple walking route to follow. This covers probably what I did last night after missing the bus, with a useful map.  I have been given a second chance; my ticket for last night’s missed trip has been transferred to tonight.  Tomorrow, I get to meet my great nephew who is visiting his girlfriend in D.C. 

This morning, apart from numerous wakings-up in the night, I felt rejuvenated from a good long kip.  The hotel bed was, as at all hotels (but not on the trains) magnificent.  By the way, on ordinary service trains like Amtrak, there is no space for hotel style luxury.  Nevertheless, overnight rail travel (at least in the most spacious accommodation available) is addictive,  and I would to think that, even at $1,000/night, including the basic fare and meals, I can and will do another such journey. 

I like the Hyatt Regency in Washington. With sensible luggage, it is walkable from the magnificent Union Station, which unlike Euston, has retained its magnificent architecture from the flamboyant glory days of the past; as do most of the big city stations in the U.S.A.  While, the architecture is well preserved and maintained, the cafés, bars, and other eateries, are, like in the U.K. set aside for (is this the right terminology?) corporate catering and other organisations e.g. Pret à Manger.  I see no Carluccio’s here!   The Concierge at the Hyatt, is printing off what I believe is my required documentation for boarding QM2 the day after tomorrow, and also setting up the mandatory Covid-19 test.

Yesterday, for a second time in the U.S. the flags were at half mast.  On the first occasion, this was mark the 1 millionth death in the U.S. of covid-19. Sadly, and very tragically, the flags were lowered yesterday because of a mass shooting at an Independence Day celebration in Illinois with several casualties.  For what it’s worth, my thoughts and prayers (I do pray fairly frequently) are for all those affected. 

There will still be few, if any photographs in my blogs from now on; it seems that I have run out of storage on my phone yet again.  I realise that a two-year old could sort this out in no time; but I’m 73 and haven’t a clue!  Anyway, it’s about time I renewed my ‘phone.  I have seen some fabulous newer models which I shall look at when back at home.

Now to explore the Capital of the United States of America!

Well, I would, but arranging that ruddy covid test so that I can board my ship home on Friday is proving impossibly complicated.  I am wasting time while the Concierge tries to jump through hoops on my behalf. 

At long last, I have an appointment which requires either being at the Hyatt at around 3.20, or catching public transport. 

Actually, looking at the map, I reckoned it was possible to walk there. My guess, it’s around two miles, but it felt longer, continuing to check where I was and stopping to take photographs.  Amazingly, I was two minutes early.  The walk provided an excellent opportunity to explore and discover.  What I do know is, that here, I would gladly spend a week, at least, particularly if I could arrange a good B and B deal at the Hyatt. It’s a doddle on the train from New York, even taking the cheaper slow train.  America do museums well.  They deserve time to enjoy and learn from.  Thus, the walk to the Covid Centre served a brilliant sightseeing opportunity.

The Grand Finale was tonight’s evening Monuments by Moonlight Night Tour, in a superb high level motorised trolley.

It was an efficient way of seeing much of the city, as well as stopping at the WW2 Memorial,  FDR Memorial/Martin Luther King. Jr National Memorial, and passing by the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial.

Once again, I cannot take any more pictures. Perhaps my great nephew whom I am seeing tomorrow can assist!  This was a most wonderful day, and a fitting penultimate day of this extraordinary journey.

Many thanks for reading, David in the Lobby of the Hyatt Regency in Washington.

A few domestic fireworks could just be seen last night from the Creole Queen River cruiser, almost certainly, nothing compared to tonight’s Independence Day celebrations in New Orleans.  My three days in what is often referred to as NOLA, New Orleans, Louisiana (or The Big Easy) felt like a week, even if the time passed quickly.  Compared to the first two nights, being a Sunday, New Orleans was very quiet, with none or very little of the intermittent but very loud “racket” from outside. However, I felt very safe and confident walking around.  I do hope I return; I wish very much to experience the old green streetcars and the newer red and cream vehicles.  I’m sure I went on one of the old trams in 1971; I have certainly got Super 8 footage from 51 years ago. 

Annoyingly, I have run out of storage space on this phone, and, even having deleted some unwanted videos and apps, I have been unable to work out how to release more storage space; as soon as I am able, New pictures will appear. I seem to have resolved this problem, but I’m not sure at what cost!

Today, Day 64, I am on my final overnight train journey from New Orleans to Washington D.C.  This train is, indeed, rather different to the double deck Superliner trains west of Chicago.  The Bedrooms geographically are similar, but only on one level, affording a second window adjacent to the upper bunk bed.  However, there is no end lower deck. baggage area, and the catering is pre-packed meals.  So, no strawberries or American biscuits, or chicken sausage with my continental breakfast.  The oatmeal comes with a choice of flavours…..this makes avoiding sugar just about impossible.  For lunch, I am forgoing the dessert; I don’t particularly want another diabetic induced lethargic day in Washington!  I have to concede, however, that the microwaved meals are not at all bad. They are served in your room; this saves Amtrak dragging around a kitchen and dining car in the consist. While adequate, I would like to think the promised improvements to customer service with new trains and proper dining cars will come to fruition, and soon!

It’s 13.53 right now and we are still in Mississippi State.  The journey is most attractive.  After passing the outskirts of New Orleans, and the wondrous Lake Pontchartrain which is crossed by the world’s longest bridge over water, at 23.83 miles, which I photographed with the Lumix, we entered endless lovely wooded countryside, which is only interrupted by various station stops, spectacular rivers and occasional industrial units, and other settlements. It wasn’t long before we were into Mississippi State, then Alabama where we still are. (16.08hrs). Amazingly, there is WiFi on this train. And, I can carry on taking photos on my phone. Stephen, the sleeping car steward, has announced that we are on Eastern Time, and my phone confirms this. 10 54 the next day in Charlottesville.

As you can see, I didn’t finish writing last night. I went to sleep in Alabama didn’t see anything of Georgia, S.Carolina or N.Carolina and woke up in the State of Virginia. Steve, our cabin steward wanted to get breakfast over and done with. I was thus the last to order mine, and most items had run out!

The wooded landscape of yesterday continues today, but sometimes conceals eyesores like an industrial unit or area, holiday homes, or car scrap yards. Many buildings and bridges as well as just about every freight car is adorned with hideous graffiti. But there are miles of unspoiled woodland, lakes and ponds, the occasional river.

And (because we remain on schedule) this last big train ride comes to an end in 2 hours and 8 minutes. Thus David will be setting foot in yet another capital city post covid-19, i.e Washington D.C. I slept reasonably well on the train despite the fairground bumpiness (is there such a word?) of the train. (I have not seen the sky over London since 2019).

I have thoroughly enjoyed this extensive of railtours. However, opting for the spacious accommodation did enable me to have a wonderful trip in the best available comfort. Nevertheless, space was tight; I had, as ever “over-packed.” I now have to get some kind of covid-19 test before I can board QM2 in four days’ time. I have the appropriate guidance.

We are (I think) still in Virginia with around 36 minutes before arrival at Washington DC. The countryside is less intense as signs of suburbia slowly begin to immerge. Some time ago on this journey, I saw the depot of the Virginia Express Railway as we sped by.

I shall continue writing soon after settling into my hotel.

In the meantime, many thanks for reading,

David, still on board The Crescent, 12.46 hrs 5th July 2022.

Actually, I should have been on a tour bus, but for some reason, I mistook the departure time, and the group had already left. With luck, there will be room tomorrow night!  So, here I am, believe it or not, fairly close to my hotel, the door man of which assured me I was in good time for the sightseeing trip. He, too, had mixed up the times! 

Washington (we have all seen it on the TV) is more awesome than comes across on news items or in the paper.  Stairways of marble, walls of granite.    Unfortunately, like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, much needed restoration work is in progress here at Capitol Hill, too.  Barriers are everywhere, but tonight is quiet, so far. The sun is going down, so I shall walk back to my hotel. 

I was hungry by the time I was walking back to the hotel.  I discovered that they do excellent bar snacks at reasonable prices.  I would get to meet a couple from Colorado and enjoy a long and varied conversation. My plans for an early night thwarted yet again! With luck, we should meet up again tomorrow. 

Many thanks for reading, David, 23.49 hrs, in my Hotel room.

I’m sure I remember this high rise from my very brief visit in1971. I find that the original structure, the Four Seasons Hotel was completed and opened in 1968.  It still is the Four Seasons Hotel, beyond even my extravagant budget! Within, View Orleans, not only offers a 360° view from the 34th floor (weather and lightning permitting, which it didn’t do today), but a high tech audio/visual history in several touch free panels describing just about every aspect of New Orleans.  This very futuristic tourist attraction was opened as recently as March 2nd this year, and therefore is only just over four months old.  To do it justice, one needs a full day here alone.  Operate every one of the graphic video units to the full, and you could take  New Orleans as your “specialist subject” in Mastermind.

Right now, I’m in the lobby of the sumptuous Westin New Orleans, waiting for the tour bus, which in three hours covers just about all of the city.  Eventually, 35 minutes after the scheduled start time, a small minibus arrived with just three others on board.  We were merely transferred to an almost full similar vehicle parked almost opposite my hotel!  I wasn’t impressed, and unlike the superb tour guides in the Grand Canyon, this guy mixed facts with hard to understand comedy.  He knew his stuff, obviously, but I remember little. Nevertheless, we ventured to places I would never have found had I relied on my own exploring skills, and from a vehicle which was very difficult to take photographs from, I got glimpses of interesting sights which, having travelled so far, I would have appreciated dwelling on for longer. 

The tour ended after around three hours and I found my way on to Canal Street, again noisy and crowded, even in daylight hours.   I had just about an hour to reach the landing pier where I would board the Creole Queen paddle boat for a two hour dinner cruise on the Mississippi River. Even before departure, a four piece jazz band were playing on one of the upper open decks, as the passengers filed slowly into the vessel, via the Dining Room where another four piece band were playing.  The buffet dinner was ready for those on board to help themselves.

I’m sure the cruise started early.  The all you can eat buffet was very good indeed with plenty of choice.  And the magnificent sunset was unlimited!

Many thanks for reading; my train for Washington DC is in 2 hours! David 07.15 hrs Independence Day.