Couples Therapy: Building the Eiffel Tower
Many people ask us how we keep our marriage working. The simple answer is we do things together. Sometimes we pick what I like to do and other times we pick what Peg likes to do and sometimes we combine likes to do something totally different. On this craft adventure we combined Peg's love for all things Paris with my crafty nature of building things. Behold, Creatology's Eiffel Tower Wooden Puzzle.
Things to Do in Seattle, WA: Ride the Ducks
If you are looking for a fun way to explore Seattle, Washington give Ride the Ducks a try. The Ducks are WWII amphibious landing craft that cruise around the streets of Seattle and then plunge into Lake Union for a tour by water. It truly is a party on wheels.
The Norwegian Pearl: Towel Animals by Abner Marcadejas
We love towel animals. They are that little extra that makes cruising so special. On our recent trip aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines' (NCL) Norwegian Pearl, our fantastic Stateroom Steward, Abner Marcadejas, would surprise us with a new creature every day. These cute creations always appeared after the evening bed turn-down. First up was a fluffy bunny rabbit.
Cruise Ship Excursion Review: Butchart Gardens, Picnic, and Victoria Highlights
The beautiful Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Canada was the destination of our final shore excursion that we chose during our seven day cruise to Alaska on the Norwegian Pearl. The ship arrived in the evening and we were quickly off to the gardens by way of a cushy motor coach. Our guide pointed out some interesting architecture during our drive and even some history about Victoria. When we arrived at the gardens, an impressive picnic basket of delicious foods was presented to us and we had the choice of eating at a table or spreading out on the luscious lawn.
Photos from the Bridge of the Norwegian Pearl
Should you upgrade your room to a suite on your cruise to Alaska? The perks that come along with the upgrade at least on the Norwegian Pearl are well worth the extra price if you can afford it. One of the perks is a tour of the bridge. This is a must do if you are at all interested in mechanical things.
What is the Norwegian's Signature Chocoholic Buffet?
Do you like chocolate? Well if you are cruising on one of Norwegian Cruise Lines ships that serves the Chocoholic Buffet you should experience this special event. One of the perks of staying in a suite aboard an NCL ship is that you get to get in line before everyone else. And, the line can be quite long! Our concierge from the Norwegian Pearl, Patrick Berido, dropped off our pass during our cruise to Alaska and we were off to this late night event.
Photos from the Port of Ketchikan, Alaska
While everyone was shopping in Ketchikan, Alaska, I spent some time just watching the fishing boats running up and down the harbor. On our cruise to Alaska, the Norwegian Pearl was tied up at Berth 3 which gave us a fantastic vantage point in which to watch the comings and goings of all the vessels.
Do Bears Do It in the Woods of Ketchikan, Alaska?
If you are cruising to Alaska, one thing you will undoubtedly want to see are bears. While cruising on the Norwegian Pearl we chose our stop in Ketchikan, Alaska to pick a shore excursion for bear watching. Early August is a fantastic time for bear watching as the bears are gorging themselves on the spawning salmon and they don't pay too much attention to you. "Bear Country & Wildlife Expedition" held in the nearby Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary will provide you with a good opportunity to watch as they feed.
What will you see in Glacier Bay Alaska during a Cruise?
If you are lucky enough to have good weather during a cruise through Glacier Bay National Park, like we had during our tour on the Norwegian Pearl, you will be in for a real treat. Make sure you are up and out when you enter the Sitakaday Narrows so you can greet the National Park Service rangers that board the ship. The rangers act as your tour guides while in the park and point out interesting history and facts about the park. The scenery is simply spectacular and you will want to spend every moment on deck or at your balcony.
Great Alaska Cruise Excursions - Jewell Gardens and Golden Glasblowing Experience Skagway, Alakska
Are you looking for something a little different to do while on your Alaskan Cruise? Are you going to be stopping in Skagway, Alaska? Well then be sure to sign up for the Golden Glassblowing Experience excursion. Not only do you get to tour the beautiful gardens but you get to make your very own glass ornament or paperweight!
Photos of Skagway, Alaska aboard the Norwegian Pearl
The second port city on our Norwegian Cruise Line Alaskan adventure was Skagway. I found Skagway to be much more inviting than our previous stop in Juneau. While the main street was still very touristy the shops at least all looked different on the outside. The boardwalk lined streets made for a nice stroll. Our ship, The Norwegian Pearl, docked at one end of town and it was a quick walk to the shopping district.
The Norwegian Pearl in Juneau Alaska - Four Glacier Adventure by Helicopter
It started out like a skit from Abbott and Costello. "Do you know where we are at?" "Yes, Juneau." "Well if I knew where we were I wouldn't be asking. What port is the Norwegian Pearl docked in?" "Juneau." "I don't give a darn!" Acting silly on vacation is what we do best.
NCL Norwegian Pearl Cruise to Alaska - The Haven Courtyard
If you ever have a chance to sail to Alaska, do it! If you can save up a little more to be able to stay in The Haven Courtyard on Norwegian Cruise Lines, do it! For our anniversary Peg and I decided we would take our first cruise to Alaska. NCL sales called us, last minute, and offered us a deal to upgrade to a penthouse in The Haven Courtyard aboard the Norwegian Pearl. We did and it was fantastic! The Bird of Paradise Courtyard Suite Room 14014 (an S5 level penthouse suite) would be our home for the seven day cruise which started in Seattle, Washington.
A Visit to Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle, Washington
What a magical place Chihuly Garden and Glass is. This was the highlight of our visit to Seattle, Washington and definitely rates on our "things not to miss" when in the city. The colors of the glass are just so vivid and the way that the pieces are displayed are jaw-dropping beautiful.
Visiting the Space Needle in Seattle, Washington
No visit to Seattle, Washington would be complete without a trip up the iconic Space Needle. The Space Needle is the most recognized landmark in Seattle. It was built in Seattle Center for the 1962 World's Fair. A trip to the top takes only 41 seconds but the lines can take forever. If you don't mind getting up early in the Summer you can take advantage of the Early Up discounts and avoid the crowds.
Things to do in Seattle - Seattle Aquarium
Who doesn't love a good aquarium? Located on Pier 59 in Seattle, Washington, the Seattle Aquarium isn't just about fish. You actually may find the marine mammals area one of the most entertaining of the entire aquarium. If nothing else you can't deny that the harbor seals are very cute.
Things to Do in Seattle - Argosy Cruises
A great and relaxing way to view the city of Seattle, Washington is by taking a cruise around Elliott Bay on one of the boats of Argosy Cruises' fleet. The Seattle Waterfront Harbor Sightseeing Tour Cruise takes about an hour to loop around the bay. You will get to see the Seattle skyline, the Space Needle, The Great Wheel, and maybe the ferries or massive cruise ships that work the port.
Bubba Goes to Seattle - Pike Place Market
For my first visit to the West coast I ended up in Seattle, Washington. Peg and I took a non-stop flight early in the morning from Dulles International Airport near Washington, DC. Once on the ground we dropped our bags at the hotel and we were off to explore the city. It didn't take long for us to find the famous Pike Place Market to get some good munchies. Farmers and crafters have been selling at this site since August 17, 1907.
Photos from Tuner Evolution Car Show
We had a surprisingly good time shooting photos at the Tuner Evolution car show which was held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA. This indoor show brought together the areas finest tuners both domestic and import to compete and enjoy each others company.
