The Magic of MSC Musica
Our cruise on the MSC Musica was magical. Perhaps it was because we traveled in a big group. I will always remember that cruise. Here are more pictures of the MSC Musica. Let’s just say this cruise line is definitely worth your consideration.
MSC Musica
MSC Musica
MSC Musica
MSC Musica
In the evening, there’s spectacular entertainment, here are the performers after one show
MSC Musica
Did you know MSC Cruise Lines have cruises out of Florida now? One of their new ships is the MSC Divina and the reason I am mentioning this is that I have a picture shown below with that very name on it. I don’t know why I took it at the time (during the MSC Musica cruise, and I believe in Turkey) – perhaps because it has a little resemblance to my own name? Anyway, here’s the picture.
Here’s me on the MSC Musica
Davinder on the MSC Musica
Here’s my son (looking out to the swimming pool) and daughter all dressed up for an Indian function on the ship – we were part of a big Indian group on the cruise – we enjoyed Bollywood, Bhangra and more – danced to it, and ate Indian food.
MSC Musica
Here’s a picture taken of one of their lounges.
MSC Musica
Of course MSC Cruise Lines also depart from many other places throughout the world, including Europe, where we took our cruise from lovely Venice, Italy. I think my next post might have to be on Venice. I hope you all have a fantastic week!
Just Some More Turkish Delight
Our visit to Istanbul during the MSC Cruise (on the MSC Musica) was packed with shopping, and savoring Turkish flavors – whether it was Turkish coffee or kebabs. Turkey is delightful, and so colorful.
Istanbul, Turkey
The first few pictures (below) were actually taken in Izmir, I could only tell since I looked back at my pictures, and saw some pictures of the cruise in the evening. I will include those here, so that you can see the sequence of events. The cruise stopped in Izmir first, and then we had our evening onboard, and the next day we got off at Istanbul.
Izmir, Turkey
Izmir, Turkey
Izmir, Turkey
Izmir, Turkey
Here are a few pictures taken back on the cruise ship that night.
MSC Musica
MSC Musica
Now let’s venture into Istanbul, and to the Grand Bazaar! Many people come to the bazaars of Turkey to get great bargains – you can find tea-sets, glassware, ornaments, clothes, handbags, and many other items. These bazaars also tantalize you with their aromas and Turkish treats. Don’t forget to try the Turkish coffee!
Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey
Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey
Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey
Time for some Turkish Coffee at Red Cafe
Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey
We left the Grand Bazaar, and ventured into the streets…..I must have asked this man if I could have a picture taken with him.
Istanbul, Turkey
I think this is also called the Blue Mosque, but this is of course in Istanbul
The Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey
Here’s the Mosque from a different angle
The Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey
Here are the last pictures of Istanbul:
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Well, I hope you think Turkey is as delightful as I do. I have only showed you some pictures of Izmir, the Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, and some of the surrounding streets. I’m sure Turkey has many other hidden delights.
Just A Little Bit Of Turkish Delight
Turkey delighted me when I visited that mysterious country in 2006. We were on a cruise with MSC Musica from Venice, Italy, and visited several ports in Europe. One of our stops was in Izmir and another one in Istanbul. I had to get out of our taxi which we took from the cruise port to the Mosque to actually venture closer and even go in the Mosque. Nobody else in the car wanted to go into the Mosque, but I could not let such beauty and magnificence pass me by.
Here are some pictures of the Blue Mosque in Izmir, Turkey:
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Izmir, Turkey – near the Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
This was taken inside the Mosque
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Last look at the Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque, Izmir, Turkey
Then it was time to get back to the MSC Musica
MSC Musica
Turkey is an incredibly beautiful country that I have to explore much more on a future visit. The amount of time that you get while on a cruise port of visit is not adequate enough when visiting a land that is full of cultural mystique and glory as Turkey is. My next post will include more pictures taken in Istanbul.
A Room With A View
A room with a view is the desire of anyone who travels whether on business or on pleasure. The title of this post was inspired by British pop group Duran Duran’s song “A View To A Kill”. I know that title is a little questionable, and different to mine, but if you listen to their song, and look at my pictures, it’s easy to replace the words, and highly encouraged.
You can see their video right here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fp4CR2HcHLQ , and perhaps every time you think of a room with a view, you might think of Duran Duran. Perhaps, the truth also is that I like Duran Duran, and used to be one of their biggest fans, and still like their songs. If you listen to one of their songs, it kind of just sticks with you for days. I keep hearing the tune of their song (of which I enclosed the link to their video) in the back of my head and of course, I have replaced it with the words “Watching you with a View To A Room” – that probably doesn’t make sense, but that’s how my song goes.
Well, here’s the view:
The Marriott Marquis & Marina, San Diego
I tried to picture the timing of this photo to get the US Navy Ship (I’m not sure what type of ship it is exactly, but presume it’s a Navy ship) just when it neared the Coronado Bridge
US Navy Ship near Coronado Bridge
On one side of this hotel are the city views
The Marriott Marquis & Marina, San Diego
And on the other side are the Bay Views
The Marriott Marquis & Marina, San Diego
You can also see the Coronado Bridge
The Marriott Marquis & Marina, San Diego
I have always said that San Diego is like Paradise on Earth. Take a look at this lush tropical landscaping – doesn’t it remind you of Paradise?
The Marriott Marquis & Marina, San Diego
City View through the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina
If you come to San Diego for business, you may want to consider that the Marriott is right next to the San Diego Convention Center!
The San Diego Convention Center & The Marriott Marquis & Marina
San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina from Seaport Village
San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina
If you come to San Diego for leisure or to mix business with pleasure, want to know two places that are really beautiful that are very close to this hotel?
Seaport Village is a must-see area that is Paradise in itself.
Seaport Village, San Diego
Coronado is another must-see area that is also Paradise, but you can’t see that from this picture….I just wanted you to see the bridge and how you are now on the side of Coronado and not San Diego.
Coronado Bridge
See my post of Sunsets in Coronado to see what you can expect to see on this beautiful island that is just a ferry ride away (catch the ferry at the Marina just outside the Marriott) or take a drive that will only take about 15 to 20 minutes or so to get from the Seaport Village area to Coronado.
Anyway, next time you need a Room With A View, think of Duran Duran, and their song, and think of some of the places I mentioned and you won’t go wrong. By the way, sorry if the picture clarity is not as good as it could be….I used my I-Phone for most of these pictures, instead of my regular camera. I wish you all a Happy February!
My Love Of Travel – It Started In Lovely London
Life is constantly evolving, and you never know from day to day what the next day will have in store for you. I made a post not too long ago, and just modified it now – Social Media and My Whirlwind Life, I also modified the page about me – About Luchanik Travel & Cruises. Why? Well, just two days ago, I finally made a decision – I no longer want to be a travel agent!
I’d now like to deviate, and focus on the place where it all started – England, and specifically lovely London! My love of travel started right here, I have to say that one of the best places in the world is London. I can go back to London time and time again, and never be bored of seeing the same places….each time is like the first time. I absolutely love it, and miss London a lot.
I really like going to this area of London – the Tower Bridge in the St. Katharine’s Dock area.
Tower Bridge, London, England
Tower Bridge, London, England
Tower Bridge, London, England
Tower Of London
I also love seeing Buckingham Palace time and time again – let’s say I have a fascination with Royalty.
Buckingham Palace, London
Buckingham Palace, London, England
I believe this picture was taken close to Buckingham Palace.
London, England
Here I am standing right in front of the spectacular monument near Buckingham Palace
London, England
London has some beautiful museums, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England
You can’t go to London without checking the place Princess Diana called home – Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace, London
Kensington Palace, London
Don’t miss seeing London’s fantastic parks, complete with ponds, lakes, and ducks.
Hyde Park, London
London, England
I just loved going in the Houses of Parliament and listening to how they argue.
Houses of Parliament, London
Westminster Abbey, London, England
This picture was taken close to the Houses of Parliament
Dean’s Yard, London
I love Harrods of Knightsbridge, London – you just have to go in this amazing, but very expensive store.
Harrods of London, Knightsbridge, England
This is close by to Harrods – stunning architecture in London, quite fabulous!
near to Harrods of London, England
Now, one of the best photographs that I treasure is that of Princess Diana, and Dodi who were tragically killed in an accident when Diana was at her happiest. I cried so much when Diana died, she was a childhood hero of mine, and I had even wanted to attend her wedding to Prince Charles – of course, I was not invited – so sad! I was so happy to see a shrine dedicated to them in Harrods which at that time was owned by Dodi’s father – I’m not sure if he is still the current owner or not.
Princess Diana and Dodi at Harrods, London
Harrods candy shop time and cappuccino time! Of course, I also like to get a pot of tea when I go into Harrods, with a scone with clotted cream and jam, doesn’t that sound nice? Oh, I crave for my English things!
Finally, a London street scene.
Central London, England
I love London, it surely is one of the best places to visit, and I highly recommend it.
Washington, DC – A Magnificent City
Washington, DC – so many important things happen here in our nation’s capital. This city is amazing, and this weekend there is a significant event occurring – Inauguration Weekend!
Oh, how I wish I was in Washington, DC for President Obama’s Inauguration this weekend. First, congratulations…..Mr. President. I’m so glad that you got a second term! I’m proud of everything that you are trying to do, including gun control legislation and health care reform.
In this picture, I am with the President in Las Vegas at Madame Tussaud’s – he looks so real, and I felt good to have my picture taken with him.
with President Barack Obama
I must include some pictures of beautiful Washington, DC that I took in summer last year.
White House, Washington, DC
White House, Washington, DC
This will be the scene of many of the festivities, including some of the concerts
The Lincoln Memorial, Washington, DC
This will be the venue of many important functions…..the Oath of Office just to name one
The Capitol, Washington, DC
Here’s the Capitol taken from a different angle (near the Botanical Gardens) with two of my kids in the picture
The Capitol, Washington, DC
Washington, DC is very picturesque
Washington, DC
There are so many memorials, statues and other significant places to take pictures
Washington, DC
Washington, DC
World War Two Memorial
The Smithsonian museums are definitely worth a visit
National Museum of American History, Washington, DC
Washington, DC is a very grand and breath-taking place – I just love the architecture!
Washington, DC
Washington, DC is really pretty when the Cherry Blossoms are in full bloom, these pictures were taken at the Jefferson Memorial.
Cherry Blossoms, Washington, DC
Cherry Blossoms, Jefferson Memorial, Washington, DC
When I first moved to the USA, quite a number of years ago from England, I remember how the grandness of this magical city took my breath away when I first saw it after arriving at Union Station.
Union Station, Washington, DC
The beauty of DC is quite captivating – if you ever visit, you too will probably be mesmerized by the awesome architecture and the big grand white buildings – they are magnificent!
Of course since I lived in DC at that time, I had to attend the Inauguration of President Bill Clinton, my very favorite President of all time!
Inauguration of President Bill Clinton
I was so close to President Clinton and Hillary Clinton, but couldn’t quite have my picture taken with them, so this is the best that I could get (don’t really like my face at all on this picture)
Inauguration of President Bill Clinton, Washington, DC
My friend’s employer had a private party to celebrate the Inauguration, and it overlooked the Parade Route
Inauguration of President Bill Clinton, Washington, DC
Lastly, a picture of one of the many tents where fesitivities took place over three or four days along Washington Mall, near where all the Smithsonian Museums are
Inauguration of President Bill Clinton, Washington, DC
I remember that I went to the Mall area just about every day of the Inaugural festivities, and it was such an exciting time. The Winans Brothers performed at one of the tents, and I remember there were many big celebrities performing at the Lincoln Memorial where I stood in the crowds of people watching Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, and many more. There was also a wonderful fireworks display.
I’m sure that Washington, DC is equally exciting this weekend, and I really wish I could have been there again to participate in the celebrations of another wonderful President. Again, congratulations Mr. President!
Want to Vacation In San Diego This Year?
Interested in visiting Paradise this year? I have a beautiful one bedroom unit for rent! The accommodation has a separate living area, bedroom, bathroom and full kitchen, and sleeps four people (there’s a sofa bed in the living room). It’s in the North County area of San Diego in Carlsbad, which is a beautiful place close by to the ocean. In fact, you will have an ocean view! Also, my vacation rental overlooks the Flower Fields – which are a tourist attraction – where visitors come from all over to Carlsbad in March or April of each year to see the beautiful flowers in full bloom – breathtaking!
By the way, before I forget to mention the rental price for the week – it will be $1,100 and that’s a great bargain considering it’s racetrack season (and you can stay here on the Grand Opening Day of the Del Mar Racetrack – see below). Hotel rooms usually can go from $275 to $300 per night or more, and additionally you will still have to eat out – save money this way by cooking your own meals – at least one or two meals (if not three). The check in date will be July 14th, 2013 and the check out date will be July 21, 2013.
Here are some pictures:
Grand Pacific Palisades and the Flower Fields, Carlsbad
That’s me and my children enjoying the flowers (yes, we got right into the fields – many people do just to have their photographs taken)
Flower Fields and Grand Pacific Palisades, San Diego
Of course, July is going to be beautiful here in San Diego! You will want to take a dip in the pool at the Palisades (there’s two pools – one adults only, and one is a family pool – more suitable for kids)
Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, San Diego
The lobby
The Lobby of the Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, Carlsbad, San Diego
Here’s another picture of the lobby area
Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, Carlsbad, CA
Kids love to play here
Playground, Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, San Diego
Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, San Diego
Outdoor Splash Area, and Kids Pool, Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, San Diego
What can you expect to see in the surrounding area?
This sign will show you some local places of interest, and of course a local restaurant where you can eat if you don’t want to cook your own food.
Grand Pacific Palisades, Carlsbad, CA
Legoland is just across the street, yes, you can even walk there! I don’t have any recent pictures of Legoland, and will have to find my older pictures, but this is a great place to visit with the kids!
Then you have the Carlsbad Outlet Mall close by, this is just within walking distance, and has many great stores such as GAP Kids, Clark Shoes, Nine West, DKNY, and many others. The kids will love it because it has rides that they just absolutely adore.
Carlsbad Outlet Mall
The main beach in Carlsbad is just about 3.7 miles away or so, if you want to go the area close by to Carlsbad Village Drive and Carlsbad Blvd. I would highly recommend eating at the Harbor Fish Cafe, which overlooks the ocean. It is located at 3179 Carlsbad Boulevard, Carlsbad, CA 92008.
Carlsbad Beach, San Diego
Carlsbad Beach, San Diego
Harbor Fish Cafe, Carlsbad
In the picture above, you can’t really tell where the Harbor Fish Cafe is, but it is on the upper right, and now when you see the picture below, you can see it more clearly, but won’t be able to tell it has a fantastic ocean view, that’s why I had to include the picture above.
Harbor Fish Cafe, Carlsbad
The racetrack!
If you travel about 15 minutes south of Carlsbad, down Highway 5, you will arrive at Del Mar, and the racetrack. Every year in July for about seven weeks, the racetrack opens, and this is unquestionably one of the area’s greatest attractions – you will be amazed if you go there on Opening Day. This year – Opening Day will be on July 17th – don’t forget if you want to be here for Opening Day this year, my vacation unit is available – it will be a fabulous place to stay in style, and entertain!
Del Mar Racetrack, San Diego
Del Mar Racetrack, San Diego
Me at the racetrack last year.
Del Mar Racetrack, San Diego
Bring the kids, there’s lots for them to do, Chandi was happy with her new horse – they often hand out freebies with your paid admission – and people just love those!
Del Mar Racetrack, San Diego
Del Mar Racetrack, San Diego
The racetrack is very close to Powerhouse Beach in Del Mar, about a mile or so.
Powerhouse Beach, Del Mar
I would highly recommend Pacifica Breeze Cafe in the Del Mar Plaza at 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 for their delicious scones, oatmeal, and kids breakfasts (you can see it at the top right of the photo below)
Del Mar Plaza, Del Mar, San Diego
Del Mar Racetrack, San Diego
Want to come here in July, 2013 – specifically July 14 – July 21? I have a place for you to stay, just write to me at dkaur@luchaniktravel.com and I will be happy to help you with your accommodation, and some recommendations. Also, if you are interested in buying this one week unit (I only own one week per year at Grand Pacific Palisades) – I would be interested in selling it too for $8,000 – that’s a bargain, then you too can live in Paradise – even if it’s just one week per year.
Don’t forget, there’s no place like Carlsbad, there’s no place like Del Mar, and there’s no place like San Diego!
2012 in review
The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2012 annual report for this blog.
Here’s an excerpt:
600 people reached the top of Mt. Everest in 2012. This blog got about 6,900 views in 2012. If every person who reached the top of Mt. Everest viewed this blog, it would have taken 12 years to get that many views.
Sunsets in Coronado, San Diego
Sunsets can be spectacular in San Diego, and Coronado which is only a two mile drive or so from downtown San Diego is no exception. Some of the best sunsets can be found right here.
Coronado, San Diego
Me and the kids went to one of our favorite places in the San Diego area – across the Bay – and onto the island of Coronado. Coronado is only a 5 minute drive or so from downtown San Diego – you head down Highway 5 and take the 75 South to Coronado, then when you see Orange Avenue, make a left and you can head to the Hotel Del.
I think this picture below would have come out nice if the car hadn’t got in the way, but I think the passengers wanted to see the sunset too. I can’t blame them.
Coronado, San Diego
I think the sunset looks pretty like this too
Coronado, San Diego
Most of these pictures were taken right before we got to Hotel Del (just a few minutes walk away), and some further down the page were taken at the beach in front of the hotel.
Coronado
Coronado
Coronado
I think these two trees below might be the same ones that were in my personal favorite sunset picture that I took in Coronado (seen below the one directly underneath)
Coronado
My favorite sunset picture taken just over a year ago on Christmas Day (2011)
Coronado
The Hotel Del, Coronado
Hotel Del, Coronado
The Hotel Del, Coronado
The Hotel Del, Coronado
The Hotel Del, Coronado
The Hotel Del is swell! It’s a great place to visit, or even stay at (I stayed there once for three nights in 2008). Top your visit off with some gelato from Mootime Creamery, their wonderful ice-cream store.
Mootime Creamery, Hotel Del
Well, I will leave you with a few more sunset pictures, this one was taken right in front of the Hotel Del
Coronado
This is on the way to the Hotel Del, just a few minutes walk away right now.
Coronado
This picture was taken right in front of the Hotel Del
Coronado
- Coronado
- Coronado
The clouds were even a little black today, we’ve had quite a bit of rain the past few weeks.
- Coronado
There’s nothing like bringing in the New Year in with sunsets, and that’s just what we did this year – that’s when these pictures were taken (except for the Christmas Day, 2011 picture). Remember, to get to Coronado from San Diego is not very hard at all. It’s just a two mile drive or so from downtown, across the Coronado Bridge.
Coronado Bridge
To get this view of the San Diego skyline (seen below), all you do is go across the Coronado Bridge and make a right at Orange Avenue, you would then make another right, and park on your left hand side where the shops are and where the Il Fornaio restaurant is. Some of the hotels seen in the San Diego skyline are the Hyatt Grand Manchester, the Marriott Marquis & Marina and the Hilton BayFront (I’ve also stayed at all these hotels). Please feel free to get in touch with me for making hotel reservations, or recommendations. As you can see, these hotels are fairly close to Coronado, and should definitely be on your list of hotels to consider staying at when you come to San Diego. You will have the best of both worlds – be close to Coronado and still be close to all the other fabulous attractions near these hotels, such as Seaport Village, the Gaslamp District, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, Sea World, and shopping at one of the most gorgeous shopping malls in the entire world – at Horton Plaza. Please see my previous post: Scenic San Diego.
San Diego Skyline from Coronado
By the way, I wish you all a Happy New Year, and I’m so sorry for not writing as frequently, time is in short supply….but I will try harder. May the New Year bring you plenty of spectacular sunsets, and much happiness.
The Big Pineapple
It’s time for you to see the Big Pineapple!
The Big Pineapple, Australia
The Big Pineapple is a tourist attraction in The Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia, and it is quite amazing. From what I remember, there are several gift shops there, as well as rides, and many other things to do. I believe there are samples of fresh pineapples too – after all, who wouldn’t want pineapple to eat after seeing this?
luchanik 