Bath is a stunning and historic city in England. Steeped in history dating back over two-thousand years, you will be spoiled with options for things to do. Less than a 1.5 hour train journey from London Paddington Station, it is a very easy day trip. We recently did this at the end of our visit to England and absolutely loved it. Next time we go though, we plan to spend more time. There is so much to see and do! Bath is a very walkable city….everything is packed into a very small area. You do not really need a hop-on, hop-off bus from a logistical sense, but there is a tour option that offers a Bath skyline tour outside the city of Bath and the city itself. Click on image for a link to book. The Roman Baths are one of the top attractions and is the reason why Bath (as a city) was established. Over 2,000 years ago, the Romans discovered they could harness the geothermally heated waters that came up from underground. The temple was constructed in 60–70 AD and the bathing complex was gradually built up over the next 300 years. For hundreds of years, the Romans used these baths for public bathing. Today, you can visit the Sacred Spring, Roman Temple and the Roman Baths. Roman baths and walking tour with Viator While it is not possible to use the historic Roman baths themselves, you can still enjoy the same natural hot spring water at Thermae Bath Spa. This one-of-a-kind complex brings the spa into the twenty-first century, with lovely treatments, relaxation spaces and a spectacular rooftop pool offering 360-degree views of the city. This is one of the best things to do in Bath, if time allows. After visiting the Roman Baths, there is so much more to explore. Be sure to visit the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus. Bath’s stunning honey colored Georgian architecture is straight from a Jane Austen novel. Bath has many museums and galleries (far too many to list here). Dive into Bath’s culture at The Holburne Museum or relive the Georgian era at No.1 Royal Crescent. Here you will see how life was lived during the late 1700’s. Immerse yourself in the dark world of Mary Shelley and her famous gothic creation at House of Frankenstein. Visit Victoria Art Gallery for classic and contemporary art in a splendid Victorian setting, or learn about the life of Bath-based astronomer and musician William Herschel at the Herschel Museum, which also hosts regular astronomy session. If you are a lover of Jane Austen novels, be sure to visit the Jane Austen Center. It is located on the same street where she last lived in Bath. The Georgian building offers a glimpse into how it would have looked in her day. The novelist spent several years living and writing in Bath. In fact, two of her novels are set in the city – Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. The Jane Austen Center in Bath focuses on the life and works of Jane Austen, as well as the Regency period in which she lived. It is a constantly evolving attraction and aims to inform and entertain visitors. The attraction is interactive and the experience is immersive. Actor guides are dressed in Regency costume, there are period decorations throughout and the exhibits bring visitors closer to Jane Austen. This is a family friendly activity. The Center also organizes another one of the top things to do in Bath, the Jane Austen Festival. You can read more about the festival on their Festival page. https://janeausten.co.uk Visit the Bath Abbey You can also take the Bath Abbey Tower Tour to see the different, working side of this iconic landmark. Walk up the 212 steps to the top, you will climb past the ringing chamber to the bell chamber, have the chance to stand above Bath Abbey’s vaulted ceiling and sit behind the clock face. Once you reach the roof, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views over the city and surrounding countryside. Pulteney Bridge is one of only four bridges lined with shops in the world. It was designed in 1769 by Robert Adam and crosses the River Avon. The bridge is named after Frances Pulteney, the wife of William Johnstone Pulteney. William was an important man in Georgian Bath, owning a lot of land in the surrounding area. He had grand plans to create a ‘new town’ to rival that of John Wood’s on the west side of the city. His grand scheme needed a new bridge and he didn’t want just any old bridge, he wanted a spectacular bridge, one which everyone would talk about. The architecture is Palladian, with pediments, pilasters and tiny leaded domes at either end. The shops are small and the roadway is not wide, but when the bridge opened in 1770, it was a revelation. Today it is one of the world’s most beautiful and romantic bridges. Walk across the bridge and explore the tea shops, restaurants and small stores. Of course, you will want to eat while visiting and have drink or two. What food and drink is Bath known for? Many pubs serve a traditional pie (meat or vegetarian). The Raven is famous for their “pie and a pint”. It is a traditional old English pub that offers good hearty pies and sausages complemented by an ever-changing selection of real ales, ciders or wine. https://www.theravenofbath.co.uk Bath is well known for two types of buns….the Bath bun and the Sally Lunn bun. The Bath bun is a sweet roll sprinkled with fruit and crushed sugar. It was one of Jane Austin’s favorites. The Sally Lunn bun is a light brioche-like creation only made at Sally Lunn’s house in Bath. These two rivals have battled it out for centuries, but which one is best? You’ll have to try them both and decide for yourself. There are also many fine dining options available throughout the city. Several worth mentioning are the Circus Restaurant (voted best restaurant in Bath overall), The Salamander, The Scallop Shell, The Pulteney Arms and The Pump Room. The Pump Room is arguably theContinueContinue reading “Top Things to do in Bath – Roman Baths, Georgian Architecture, and Culinary Delights”
Category Archives: Europe
Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips
Sailing the fjords of Norway is amazing. The scenery is stunning and there are many excellent excursions. But….“WHAT DO I PACK!”. We have sailed the fjords several times. I use a modified version of my What To Pack For Alaska list. This list also works well for Iceland cruises. First off remember….it’s not the middle of winter! Just because you are heading to the great northern region of Norway, that does not mean it will be snowing and cold. Sure, it could rain and/or be windy (and therefore be a tad chilly) and you may get chilled while sailing into the fjords. BUT….once the ship stops, if the sun is shining, it can be very warm. If you are sailing in May or September, be prepared for cooler temperatures. Later in the summer, it can be warm and humid. The most useful suggestion I have is layers, layers, layers! Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket….heavy down coats are NOT required! Neither are UGGS! Seriously, light weight layers is the answer. The dress code onboard is generally “smart casual” during the day and most evenings, with optional “Evening Chic” nights where guests can dress up a bit more, though formal wear is not required. Ultimate Guide to Celebrity Cruise Dress Code Here are the items that have worked for me. Norway Fjords Packing List: 2 pairs jeans or other long pants (in case one gets wet) Leggings are very popular and are perfect for travel. Fleece lined and water resistant are a great option if you are sailing early in the season or later…or if you easily get cold. I recently sailed Norway in late May and was fine wearing regular leggings. 3-4 shirts to wear with jeans/pants/leggings. one or two pairs casual pants to wear onboard 1 nice outfit for formal/dress up nights 1 or 2 skirts and/or nice pants and shirts/sweaters to wear with them – choose colors that work well together to create more outfits (think capsule wardrobe). 1 or 2 hooded sweatshirts – pullover or zip up 1 waterproof jacket or warm vest… or poncho. This jacket is waterproof, lightweight and good for hiking and travel. It keeps you dry when you need it and packs down small. I have worn a vest under a rain coat for additional warmth. A waterproof poncho would also be very useful. This one folds up into a small packet, is lightweight, has a front zipper and pockets and is available in several colors! A good travel size umbrella can also be very useful. scarf, hat and gloves (for sailing into the fjords) 1 or 2 pair dress shoes/sandals 1 pair sandals for pool deck swimsuit and coverup (Many are probably thinking…seriously? a bathing suit? Yes! The ship’s pools will be open and the hot tubs will be running….enjoy them!) 2 pair good walking shoes I recently purchased these trail inspired slip-ins by Skechers for our active travels. Men and women styles. I use this waterproof spray on my shoes. Hint…wet shoes can be smelly. I use these to remove odors, you get enough for 3 pairs of shoes. They also work really well in your suitcase to remove odors and keep the it smelling fresh. It’s also smart to protect your clothes from dirty shoes with shoe bags. Good sunglasses – the glare off the deck will be very strong. You will definitely want some good binoculars while cruising the fjords. Most ships provide some in your cabin but the quality is usually not very good. We bring a good travel size with us. Just discovered these amazing mosquito/bug repellent patches…so much nicer than using bug spray! Socks and underwear (duh) Workout clothes – if you plan to hit the gym When going ashore, it is nice to have a good bag. I like to use a crossbody bag, Protect your valuables from pickpockets and thieves. This bag is also RFID protected. Sunscreen (glare off boat can be strong) A travel first-aid kit .is a necessity. Pain killers (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) and a few bandaids…easier (and cheaper) than going to the ship’s doctor. This is a great first aid kit for traveling. Magnetic chip clips to keep papers organized…cabin walls are metal, so magnets will work. Stonger magnetic hooks are very useful to hang up coats and hats. Keep the cabin organized! After sailing many times and finally having our luggage go missing due to luggage tags being torn off, we now use cruise line luggage tag holders. Highly recommend. Many stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. I take reusable grocery bags. Cabins have blackout curtains but light can still sneak through the bottom or sides. In Norway, the sun sets very late and rises super early. An eye mask is very helpful. Are you prone to motion sickness? These sea sick patches will make your cruise more enjoyable! AND….they are Captain Kate approved! These are the exact same ones she uses onboard, while flying and when in the car. I love these adapters by Hero. They have them for several different countries and are made in the US with a 100% money back guarantee and lifetime warranty. The ship will have US and EU outlets but for any hotel you stay in pre or post cruise, you will need one. Most cruise ship cabins have only a few electric plugs. You’re going to need additional outlets to charge electronic items like phones, computers, tablets, kindles, etc. USB ports are also useful. VERY IMPORTANT – Cruise lines don’t allow a regular surge-protected power bars from home (they will confiscate them). I recommend using one that plugs directly into the outlet without a cord. Many ports are confiscating those with cords, as they consider them extension cords. This is the one we travel with. Be sure to bring printed copies of travel documents – while most cruise guests rely on digital versions, it’s always a good idea to carry a printed copy of your itinerary, travel insurance details, and any booking confirmations as a backup. What cruise documentsContinueContinue reading “Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips”
Norway Fjord Cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse!
In August of 2017, we visited our daughter in Hove, England and family friends near Sheffield. After spending several days traveling around the country, we boarded the Celebrity Eclipse in Southampton and headed to Norway! We had visited two of the ports on a previous cruise and were looking forward to seeing them again and to exploring several new ones. This was a special cruise for the Eclipse…they only visit these ports twice per season…once in the spring and once in late summer. First stop was Bergen, where we had been before. This time, it was pouring rain and windy, but we went ashore and walked around the Hanseatic port. Bergen is very walkable. The hop-on-hop-off bus is also a great option to explore the city. Be sure to visit the outdoor fish market and try some of the local sausages, which include reindeer, elk and whale. After returning to the ship and drying out, we received a lovely surprise in our cabin from Captain Leo and enjoyed a delicious dinner in the main dining room. The next morning we arrived in Flam. Flåm is a village in southwestern Norway, in an area known for its fjords. It sits at the end of Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the vast Sognefjord. The dramatic Stegastein viewing platform juts out high above the Aurlandsfjord. South of Flåm Harbor, the 17th-century wooden Flåm Church lies in the valley. The Flåm Railway offers valley and waterfall views as it climbs to a station on the Hardangervidda plateau (wikipedia). We opted to not take the railway and instead hiked to the Brekkefossen waterfall. It was a pretty steep and strenuous hike, but the views from the top were 100% worth it. On the way back to the ship, we passed the Aegir Brewery. It is the local brewery in Flåm and has received several awards for their delicious tasting beer. The brewery opened in 2007 and has been named “Norway’s BrewPub of the year” three years in a row. The brewery produces a wide range of varieties of beer and offer many types of different flavors, with seasonal varieties. Be sure to visit the Gilde hall which was built in the Viking style, with walls marked by driftwood dragon heads and a 9-meter-high chimney. You can also purchase a pint in the historic hotel, Freitheim Hotel or the Bakkastova Cafe. Both are located very close to the fjord and provide great views of the ship. After our adventures, we were exhausted and returned to the ship to enjoy the evening with another wonderful meal in Silhouette, the main dining room. Geiranger was our next port of call. We visited this port in 2014 and were excited to be back. We chose to walk up the stairs alongside the Fossevandring waterfall. It is an easy walk with metal steps and hand rails. On the prior visit, we visited the Union Hotel, which we decided to do again. We enjoyed a quick glass of wine for me and a beer for my husband. After visiting with the front desk, we decided to do what they described as an “easy, 20 minute hike” to the local farmhouse. Let me just say….boy, were they wrong! An hour later, and another straight up climb, we reached the Westerås Farm and Restaurant. Even though the climb was tough (especially after the climb we did the prior day), the view was once again amazing and totally worth the effort. The restaurant is housed in a building dating from 1603 and has panoramic views of Geiranger. We met some wonderful English ladies on the way up and joined them for another beer and some Norwegian waffles with homemade strawberry sauce. Delicious! We decided to walk back down to the ship via the road….SO much easier! And the views were just as stunning. Geiranger has a really cute port area with shops and food stalls. A favorite of the crew is the coffee shop just across the street from the main shopping area. It was hard to believe we only had two ports left. Alesund was next on our agenda. Ålesund is a port town on the west coast of Norway, at the entrance to the Geirangerfjord. It’s known for the art nouveau architectural style, in which most of the town was rebuilt after a fire in 1904. It is a very walkable town with cobblestone streets and is surrounded by water. Many tourists visit the Aksla viewpoint, the Sunnmore Museum, or walk through the Art Nouveau district (many buildings have numbered plagues that correspond to a map that is available at tourist information). We found the Miracle House. About ten thousand people became homeless when 850 homes were lost during the great fire in Ålesund on January 23rd, 1904. One house in Grensegata remained standing among the ruins. Anders Nor, who lived in the house, was visited by an angel the day before. The angel promised that his home was going to be spared. Furniture that was removed from the house lit up in flames but the house stood unharmed when every other building in the eastern district burned to the ground. The house was built around 1870 and has been the property of the Walde family. In 2012, the Pentecostal Church Filadelfia Ålesund aquired the house. It has since been restored and is now open to the public free of charge. There is a small kitchen were you can purchase a tea and cake to enjoy either in the house or on the patio. That evening, we were invited to the helicopter deck for sail away. As we left the port, a tug boat gave us a nice send off. Our final port was Stavanger….another city we had never visited. Stavanger is a city in southwestern Norway. In the center of town, Stavanger Cathedral dates back to the city’s 12th-century founding. Stavanger Museum chronicles the city’s history and displays preserved wildlife. The Norwegian Petroleum Museum illuminates the oil industry with submersibles, a large drill bit and an escape chute.ContinueContinue reading “Norway Fjord Cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse!”
Exploring Lerwick: A Journey Through Shetland’s History
Lerwick is Shetland’s only town, with a population of about 7,500 – although about half of the islands’ 22,000 people live within 10 miles of the burgh. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Founded as an unofficial marketplace to service 17th century Dutch herring fleets, Lerwick took a long time to grow. Because of its illegal status (and alleged immorality!) the straggling hamlet around the shore of Ler Wick (‘muddy bay’) was demolished by order of the Scalloway court in 1615 and 1625. The Dutch burnt the fort in 1673 and the French set fire to Lerwick in 1702. Most of the sandstone buildings on the waterfront date from the 18th century, although a few, such as 10 Commercial Street, are older. The narrow main street still follows the old shoreline but modern harbour works have been built out in front of shops and warehouses that once stood in the sea. Perched on a hillside overlooking the harbour, the town’s lanes retain their charm – and their shelter from the prevailing south-westerly gales. After picking up our prearranged rental car, we hit the road. First stop…Scalloway Castle. The castle was uilt by Patrick Stewart, Earl of Orkney, in 1600. It was in use for only a very short time and the castle fell into disrepair after his execution in 1615. The castle ruins still stand impressively by Scalloway harbour. The village of Scalloway is on the west coast of the island, a short drive from Lerwick. We wandered around the village, stopping into the local grocery store. Oh…how I wanted to have cooking facilities! The butcher was making some wonderful smelling sausages, but he did not have the ability to cook anything. Instead, we bought another packet of crisps and ate them on the road! Off we go to find Sumburgh Lighthouse, Jarlshof and puffins! Here the Atlantic meets the North Sea and the unique action of tides and wind promote a wealth of wildlife of which seabirds and seals, and occasionally whales and dolphins, are first to catch the eye. The seabird colony is among the most accessible in Britain and is an RSPB Reserve. From mid-April to early-August Puffins are, arguably, its top attraction, often sitting just a few metres away on the grassy cliff tops. These puffins were just beyond a low rock wall. There were hundreds hopping around the rocks and flying all around us. A short drive away, we found Jarlshof. The earliest remains on the site are late Neolithic houses, followed by Bronze Age houses, two of which have underground passages attached, known as souterrains. These may have served as cold stores. A third souterrain curls beneath the hearth of one of the buildings and might have been for keeping grain dry. Smithing also took place in one of these. A broch was built in the Iron Age: today half of it has been eroded into the sea. The broch was subsequently modified and when it went out of use, at least four wheelhouses were built, partly using stone from the higher levels of the broch. One of these wheelhouses is almost complete and has corbelled cells surviving which demonstrate skilled drystone work. Jarlshof boasts an impressive Norse settlement possibly originating in the 9th century. The earliest longhouse was in use for several generations, being modified and lengthened over time. The settlement expanded with the construction of further longhouses, barns and byres, but by the 13th century this had been replaced by a Medieval farmstead, comprising a farmhouse, barn and corn-drier. Next to the site, is a paddock holding Shetland ponies. Shetland Ponies are hardy and strong, in part because the breed developed in the harsh conditions of the Shetland Isles. In appearance, Shetlands have small heads, sometimes with dished faces, widely spaced eyes and small and alert ears. The original breed has a short, muscular neck; a compact, stocky body; short, strong legs; and a shorter-than-normal cannon bone in relation to its size. A short broad back and deep girth are universal characteristics, as is a springy stride. Shetlands have long thick manes and tails and dense double winter coats to withstand harsh weather. Soon it is time to reboard the ship and head to Norway. While waiting for the tender boat, we shared some original Scottish fish and chips. Absolute perfection! Final Thoughts: If you are looking for tours to do on your own, check out Viator and GetYourGuide. Wondering what to pack for your visit to Lerwick? Be sure to check out the Ultimate Guide to Packing for a British Isles Cruise for a comprehensive list. Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Day Two
Today we decided to explore Reykjavik on foot. We took the bus from the ship, since we wanted to save our feet for the town! The tourist information center at Aðalstræti 2 is a good starting point. Aðalstræti is the oldest street in Reykjavík, and the point from which all street numbers begin: the higher the number, the farther from Aðalstræti. Ingólfur Arnarson, traditionally regarded as Iceland’s first permanent settler, is thought to have settled here around 870 — though Reykjavík didn’t have a proper street until the 18th century. For most of its history, Reykjavík was just one of many hereditary coastal estates. In 1613, the Danish monarch, who had imposed an oppressive trade monopoly on its Iceland colony, purchased the settlement under threat of force. Reykjavík then grew into a kind of shanty town for seasonal labor assisting Danish merchants, mostly associated with the fishing trade. The oldest house in Reykjavík, from 1764, is at Aðalstræti 10. Reykjavik is the northernmost capital in the world. If you would like to read more about Reykjavik, please visit, http://www.frommers.com/destinations/reykjavik/760190#sthash.HeeQj1dT.dpbs#ixzz3S6qjyZsp Hallgrímskirkja church is Reykjavík’s main landmark and its tower can be seen from almost everywhere in the city. It was designed by the late Guðjón Samuel in 1937, who was often inspired in his endeavours by the fascinating shapes and forms created when lava cools into basalt rock.Construction of the church began in 1945 and ended in 1986, with the tower completed long before the rest of the building. The crypt beneath the choir was consecrated in 1948, the steeple and wings completed in 1974 and the nave consecrated in 1986. The church features, most notably, a gargantuan pipe organ designed and constructed by the German organ builder Johannes Klais of Bonn. Standing tall at an impressive 15m and weighing a remarkable 25 tons, this mechanical action organ is driven by four manuals and a pedal, 102 ranks, 72 stops and 5275 pipes, all designed to reproduce powerful notes capable of filling the huge and holy space with a range of tones – from the dulcet to the dramatic. Its construction was completed in December 1992 and has since been utilized in a variety of recordings, including some by Christopher Herrick. Standing directly in front of the church, and predating it by 15 years, is a fine statue of Leifur Eiriksson (c. 970 – c. 1020) – the first European to discover America. Records suggest that Leifur landed on the shores of the new world in the year 1,000 A.D., that’s 500 years before Christopher Columbus. The statue, which was designed by Alexander Stirling Calder was a gift from the United States in honour of the 1930 Alþingi Millennial Festival, commemorating the 1,000th anniversary of the establishment of Iceland’s parliament at Þingvellir in 930 AD. (http://www.visitreykjavik.is/hallgrimskirkja-church) After all that walking, we were hungry. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is a small chain of popular hot dog stands located in the city. The flagship stand has been in continuous operation since 1937 and sits across from the Harpa Concert Hall, which is where our bus stopped. Pylsur is often called “The Icelandic National Food.” The original stand also appeared in the first season of Anthony Bourdain’s travel program No Reservations. In August of 2006, the British newspaper The Guardian, also selected Bæjarins beztu as the best hot dog stand in Europe. A hot dog costs 380 Kronas (as of July of 2014) and ketchup, sweet mustard, fried onion, raw onion and remoulade, a mayonnaise-based sauce that contains sweet relish, are all available as condiments. Hot dogs are often ordered with “the works” (i.e., all the condiments). The hot dog itself is boiled and served on an unremarkable bun. These hot dogs are made in Iceland and are of average size; everyone in Reykjavik seems to know of the central hot-dog stand. I’m not much of a lover of hot dogs, but I’m glad I tried one! Right across the street was another stand that we absolutely had to try….lobster soup! It is located near the water, at a place called Saegreifinn, or Sea Baron, a sort of fish shack owned by a retired fisherman named Kjartan Halldorsson. The soup was made with fresh lobster caught in the local waters and served with fresh cream. It was hot and creamy and the perfect ending to our day in Reykjavik. Follow my travels on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/travelswithmickey/ and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqQeVrLSGSKfAHi2aJfTuPg If you love cruising, planning cruises, talking about cruises and helping other cruisers…..join us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/6024668980942660 Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland…a whole country to explore and only two days. Day 1…. We rented a car and set out to explore for as long as we could. We wanted to make it to the famous waterfall Gullfoss, but got sidetracked at Þingvellir National Park. So glad we did! Little did we know, Þingvellir is a site of historical, cultural, and geological importance and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland. It lies in a rift valley that marks the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Þingvellir is notable for its unusual tectonic and volcanic environment. The continental drift between the North American and Eurasian Plates can be clearly seen in the cracks or faults which traverse the region, the largest one, Almannagjá, being a veritable canyon. This also causes the often measurable earthquakes in the area. Parliament, or Althing, was established at Þingvellir in 930 and remained there until 1798. It was Iceland’s supreme legislative and judicial authority from its establishment in 930 and remained for the duration of the Commonwealth, until 1271. Þingvellir National Park was founded in 1930, marking the 1000th anniversary of the Althing. It was later expanded to protect natural phenomena in the surrounding area, and became a World Heritage Site in 2004. We did get to see some wonderful waterfalls. They have done a great job preserving this area. And there is a very nice, informative visitor center. Just as it started to rain, we had to head back. Why? We had a reservation to ride Islandic ponies!! Laxnes Horse Farm was founded in 1968 and remains family run to this day. I booked our ride before we left the US athttp://www.laxnes.is . You have to contact them directly, since they do not use the tourist websites popular in Iceland. By doing this, they are able to keep their prices family friendly. They offer short rides, day rides or longer trail rides that last for several days We entered the barn and were greeted by family members. They helped us find riding gear, including hats, gloves and boots. Then we were divided into groups and were led to the corral, where the ponies waited. For more than a thousand years, from the settlement of the country in the late 9th century to the early 20th century, the small but amazingly strong Icelandic horse has played a vital role in Icelandic history. Dubbed “The most useful servant”, many Icelanders credit the horse for the survival of the Icelandic people. The settlers brought with them horses from Norway and the British Isles, strong and muscular they served their masters in war and peace. In recorded Icelandic history, which spans over 900 years, no horses have been imported to Iceland. In the 11th century, import was made illegal, so the present day horse is very similar to what they were 900 years ago. This isolation has preserved certain traits lost to other European horses. Among these are the five gaits the horse is famous for. They are the sweetest and gentlest horses I have ever ridden. We were very happy to have those waterproof suits on….it started to rain and it was pretty muddy! After the ride, we were offered homemade bread, cakes and coffee. Such a wonderful time. I can’t wait to go back! That evening, since we stayed in Reykjavik overnight, we went back into town after dinner onboard the ship. It is a very easy town to walk around in. We eventually ended up at the Hilton, primarily to use the free wifi! Then back to the ship. The picture below was taken at 11pm! Our second day in Reykjavik is posted here. Day Two Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. *As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Torshavn, Faroe Islands
After a lovely, relaxing day at sea, we arrived in Torshavn, Faroe Island. Disembarkation was scheduled for 10am, but due to bad weather, we were delayed for a short time. Once we received the all clear, we boarded a tender and made the short trip to the island. The Faroe Islands is an archipelago and autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark and is situated between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. It is approximately halfway between Norway and Iceland, and about 200 mi north-north-west of mainland Scotland. Torshavn is the capital and largest city of the Faroe Islands. It is located in the southern part on the east coast of Stremoy. The name of the town means Thor’s Harbor and is likely named after the god of thunder and lightening in Norse mythology. The Vikings established their parliament on the Tinganes Peninsula in 850 CE and has remained the capital ever since. Tinganes, the old part of town, it is still made up of small wooden houses covered with turf roofs. The oldest one dates back 500 years. We did not have any excursions planned, so we decided to walk through town and have an adventure. We found a lovely streaming running through the middle of town and saw amazing sculptures. We ended up on the far side of the town. The view was incredible. After exploring a grocery store, we decided to walk back into town and see what else we could discover. I tried to purchase some packaged goods, but my credit card would not work. Rats! We wandered back through town to the harbor on the other side of Tinganes. We found a small cafe/pub on the waterfront. Frank had a local beer and I had a cider. Yep…that’s my phone. They had free wifi, so we were able to check in at home. Love wifi! This harbor is where the local fisherman are. We saw a table filled with the largest mussels I have ever seen. Horse mussels are buried or partly buried in gravel. They are most frequently found at subtidal depths from 10 to 25 meters, but there are registrations from 150 meters depth. They are often aggregated in large groups. We did not buy any, as we could not cook them. But boy…did I want to try some! Torshavn Cathedral is the second oldest received church of the Faroe Islands, on Tinganes in the old town of Torshavn. It is painted white and roofed with slate, and was established in 1788. The cathedral church lies in the north of the peninsula Tinganes and is one of the main attractions of the town. Like most churches of the country, it belongs to the Evangelical-Luthern national church of the Faroe Islands. Since 1990, it has been the seat of the bishop of the Faroes and is therefore known as a cathedral. The interior was stunning, with boats suspended from the ceiling in honor of the sailors lost at sea. We were lucky to be there on a Saturday and witnessed a parade of weddings. Apparently, summer weddings are very popular in the cathedral. The wedding party wore traditional Faroses costumes that are handed down through the generations. All too soon, it was time to return to the ship and continue our journey. As we sailed past the island, I was reminded of the Scottish Highlands. Off to Iceland! Let’s Connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.
Best things to do in Tallinn, Estonia
A few years ago, we took a Baltic cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse. One of our ports was Tallin, Estonia. Tallinn is a fascinating city. The old town is on a hill and is an easy walk from the cruise terminal. Most cruise lines offer busses for a fee, if you prefer to save the walking for the town. Even though Tallinn was founded in 1248, the earliest human settlements are over 5,000 years old, which makes it one of the oldest capital cities of Northern Europe. Due to its strategic location on the Baltic Sea, the city became a major trade hub. It grew in importance as part of the Hanseatic League from the 14th to the 16th century. Tallinn’s number one attraction is without a doubt the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Here you will find medieval ambience with an exceptionally well-preserved street network and city walls. Stroll along the narrow, cobble stone streets, admire the centuries-old architecture, climb towers, and peek into mysterious courtyards and archways – some hide romantic cafés, cute shops, or secret gardens. In the heart of the Old Town is the Town Hall Square. The square has been a marketplace and the center of this old Hanseatic town since the Middle Ages. Now, it is a main venue for a variety of events, from the Old Town Days in summer to the fairy-tale Christmas Market and a popular meeting place for the townspeople. Incidentally, the world’s first public Christmas tree was erected here in 1441 by the Brotherhood of the Blackheads. The Town Hall Square is named after the Gothic Town Hall, which stands on the edge of the square and offers beautiful views from the tower. At the other end of the square is the Raeapteek, one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe and the oldest in Tallinn. Next to the pharmacy is a museum, where you can learn about the history and medieval healing methods. You can also take a guided tour and workshops are held in the basement. Toompea Castle, with its late Baroque façade, was built between 1767 and 1773 on the foundations of a crumbling eastern wing of a fortress dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Today the castle is home to the Riigikogu (the Estonian parliament). The national flag can be seen flying on top of the 45.6-metre Tall Hermann tower. Free tours of the castle for visitors takes place every day Monday to Friday, if booked ahead of time. https://www.riigikogu.ee/en/visit-us/ Sessions of parliament can be watched from the public gallery. The Seaplane Harbor and Estonian Maritime Museum is built in a unique seaplane hangar. This exciting maritime museum is located in the Seaplane Harbor and is the most impressive maritime museum in the region. With approx. 200 authentic items on display, you will find a submarine called Lembit, a century-old icebreaker Suur Tõll, a seaplane called Short 184, remains of the oldest ship found in Estonia and much more. If you are traveling with children, they will enjoy having their picture taken in a navy uniform, an aquarium, simulators, throwing paper airplanes and a children’s corner with drawing tools, building blocks, an authentic sailboat, and an outdoor playground. Walking and exploring can make one hungry. Tallinn is steadily becoming a foodie destination with more restaurants, gastro pubs, and cafés than sometimes seem possible. Here you will find everything from high-end Nordic cuisine to cheap, local favorites. The Old Town has it all, even the historic foods. You will probably not see many locals in the restaurants, especially in the summer. It’s not because they don’t like them or there are too many tourists, it’s just that eating out in the Old Town is usually reserved for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. Here you will find various local fare from wild boar to bear and barley sausage. The unusual flavors are novel but really good and the unique experience makes for a treasured memory. You can also take a food tour with a guide. This gives you the opportunity to explore Estonian foods with someone who can explain all of the dishes while you eat them. https://foodsightseeing.ee/en Enjoy wandering this beautiful medieval town….explore the nooks and crannies, walk down the pathways, climb the towers, eat some local food. And be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes! Let’s connect: Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.