Monday, April 21, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Hamburg, Germany
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Hamburg, Germany.
Today’s Excursion – Medieval Luneburg
We travelled to Lüneburg, a medieval town situated on the river Ilmenau and indeed a secret treasure south of Hamburg.
Located in the northeastern part of Lower Saxony, approximately 50 kilometres south of Hamburg, Lüneburg has a population of around 70,000 residents. The city, rich in tradition, boasts an over 1,000-year-old history closely tied to salt, known as the “white gold” of the Middle Ages. The salt mines made Lüneburg a rich and powerful town and an essential member of the
Hanseatic League.
Luneburg Walking Tour
To learn more and appreciate the beauty of this medieval city, our guide took us on an orientation tour of the Old Town on foot. The numerous important historical buildings, featuring well-preserved brick patrician houses built in the North Gothic style, testify to the city’s prosperity in the Middle Ages. Even today, salt plays a vital role in Lüneburg’s status as a spa town; many illnesses are treated through salt and water therapies. Walk through the small, cobbled streets and alleyways to view the historical town hall, the Rathaus, dating back to 1297. Admire fascinating buildings and merchant houses, steeped in cultural history, such as St. Nicolas’ Church, built in the 15th century, the wooden mill, and Lueneburg’s landmark, the Old Crane.
Dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant
CONTRARIAN
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER DARRELL JOYCE
A native of Columbus, Ohio, this 30-year veteran of the comedy circuit and finalist in the Aspen and Montreal Festivals, appears to deliver his cutting-edge style effortlessly and is guaranteed to leave audiences
doubled over, rolling in the aisles with laughter.
Sunday, April 20, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Hamburg, Germany
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Hamburg, Germany.
HAMBURG, GERMANY
Hamburger’s City
If you thought the hamburger was an American invention, it’s time to give credit where credit is due, because the hamburger comes from… Hamburg. If your jaw drops because you’ve only just seen the report, well done, and read on. If not, proceed with reading on.
First of all, it’s worth noting that in Germany, it’s common practice to refer to a culinary specialty by its city of origin, as if it were a citizen of that city. For example, a Frankfurter sausage will be called ‘Frankfurter’, just as a Frankfurter would be called ‘Frankfurter’. The same goes for a Berliner, but not the one that John F. Kennedy referred to in his 1963 speech in Berlin; rather, it is a doughnut with jam filling.
But back to our burgers…,
In Hamburg, the Hamburgers (the city’s inhabitants) used to serve a hearty dish to the workers: the Hamburg steak, a patty of minced meat covered in sauce, otherwise known as a Hamburger. This Hamburger was a classic in German canteens and, in the 19th century, one of the main dishes served on board the HAPAG, the shipping line that linked Hamburg to New York. With all the successive waves of migration from old Europe to America, the Hamburger gained a foothold in the New World. With the addition of two slices of bread, it became even more practical, and in less than a century, it became the quintessential American specialty and a national icon that has since conquered taste buds worldwide.
SIGHTS
• Chilehaus
• Deichstrasse
• Historischer
• Weihnachtsmarkt
• Miniatur Wunderland
• Rathaus
• Reeperbahn
• St. Michaelis Kirche
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Hamburg’s inner city is diverse. From boutiques on Gänsemarkt to passages around the Hanseviertel and luxury shopping on Neuer Wall, everyone will find something. Most traditional shopping streets boast luxury outlets and high-street fashion alike, from Jungfernstieg to the Neuer Wall. For more classic Hamburg retail, just near Jungfernstieg, you will discover a row of merchants’ houses that have been in business here since the 1920s.
The humble Fischbrötchen (fish roll) is one of Hamburg’s most popular snacks. Made using pickled or soused herring, they are typically served in a crusty roll with pickles, onions, and remoulade sauce. These moreish morsels are a pride of Hamburg, so be sure to pick one up.
Today’s Excursion – Scenic Hamburg
Enjoy a panoramic tour of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest metropolis and one of Europe’s
biggest ports. Elegant and cosmopolitan Hamburg is a city of palatial office buildings, magnificent promenades, international
musicals, extravagant shopping malls, and the famous Reeperbahn in St. Pauli.
Hamburg Sightseeing
See the City Hall, Germany’s oldest Stock Exchange, the Speicherstadt, as well as the Jungfernstieg, one of the elegant and luxurious shopping areas: St. Pauli and Reeperbahn. Drive past the St. Pauli Landungsbrücke, where the old sailing vessels used to dock. Continue your journey along the world-famous Reeperbahn, where, at the beginning of the 17th century, the “Reepers” constructed rigs. Nowadays, it is referred to as “the mile of sin” where ‘The Beatles’ began their career in 1962.
St. Michael’s church.
See St. Michael’s Church, which was destroyed at some point in the past but was then always reconstructed. Also known as the “Michel” by the locals, this church is the largest North German Baroque church and Hamburg’s prominent landmark.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
BOOGIE FEVER
Get on your boogie shoes and feel the heat in your feet as you join your Silversea Singers and Dancers with the Silversea Band for some disco fever and explosive dance moves, bound to get your toes tapping and heads bobbing.
Satruday, April 19, 2025 – Photo of the Day – En Route to Hamburg, Germany
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Hamburg, Germany.
Today’s Activities Included:
9:45 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn E. Robinson- Happening Hamburg- Once part of the Hanseatic League.
Hamburg had a long history as an independent city-state and major port. It is a center of German and European culture today.
11:00 Intermediate Bridge Lesson
Noon Special Luncheon celebrating Dr. Don & Sharron Balfore’s 1,000 days of sailing with Silverseas.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Alastair Bruce of Crioniach – The German Empire and its Three Kaisers.
The story of Prussia’s last three kings, who became emperors of Unified Germany from 1871 to 1918.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Lubienski- Secret Intelligence: Around The Baltic.
Learn how Polish mathematicians first cracked the Enigma cipher, how a Finnish ice skater lent her name to a US intelligence operation, and enjoy more stories of secret intelligence from around the Baltic in WW2.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
BEYOND THE ORIGINAL
“Beyond the Original” redefines musical expression as male vocalists reinterpret iconic female songs, and female vocalists infuse legendary male anthems with newfound depth and meaning.
This seamless blend of modern artistry, with a touch of operatic grandeur, is enriched by dramatic harmonies soaring over the masterful arrangements of the Silver Dawn Band, as they perfectly complement the evening’s vocal performances.
Featuring standout talents—Beatrice, Francesca, Luke, and Sass—this show offers unforgettable renditions that bridge the worlds of classic, modern, and contemporary music. Experience a celebration of voice, harmony, and reinvention, where every note is reimagined and every performance transcends the boundaries of the original.
Friday, April 18, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Where in the World Are We?
We are in the Netherlands, Amsterdam
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
A Blend of History, Culture, and Innovation
Amsterdam is not just about its rich history and charming architecture- it’s also a city that thrives on vibrant culture and modern innovation. With over 1,500 bridges, Amsterdam is often referred to as the “Venice of the North.” The city is renowned for its rich artistic heritage and strong ties to legendary artists such as Rembrandt and Van Gogh, both of whom lived and worked in Amsterdam.
Their legacies are preserved in world-famous institutions such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, which house countless masterpieces that attract art lovers from around the globe.
The city boasts more than 75 museums, including the poignant Anne Frank House, which offers a moving look into the life of Anne Frank during World War II. Amsterdam’s Red Light District, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, reflects its long-standing progressive and open-minded spirit. With over 165 canals stretching more than 100 kilometers, Amsterdam’s canal ring is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as King’s Day, when the entire town turns orange in celebration of the Dutch monarch’s birthday.
SIGHTS
• Red Light District
• Rijksmuseum
• Van Gogh Museum
• Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder
• Amsterdam Museum
• Nemo Science Museum
• Anne Frank House
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
The city’s famous flower market, Bloemenmarkt, is the only floating flower market in the world. Open year-round, it offers a colorful selection of flower bulbs, souvenirs, and seasonal blooms.
Amsterdam is also home to the oldest stock exchange in the world- the Amsterdam Stock Exchange- founded in 1602 by the Dutch East India Company.
Today’s Excursion – Amsterdam & the Rijksmuseum
We saw famous sights, including the Baroque-style Royal Palace, the New Church, the Mint Tower, the Weeper’s Tower, and the Rijksmuseum.
Rijksmuseum
From the time of Rembrandt, Amsterdam has been revered as a center of art. Today, the city is renowned for its celebrated
museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh, and Stedelijk Museums, to name a few. It is also a shopper’s city, featuring everything from the famous flower market to glassware, Delft porcelain, cheese, and wooden shoes.
Our guided visit to the Rijksmuseum will offer you an in-depth exploration of the museum’s collections. We discovered the Dutch
masters. The Museum is probably most famous for the Nightwatch and the Milkmaid, but it has even more to offer.
FROM THE DANUBES TO THE STEPPES
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER RUSTEM HAYROUDINOFF
Experience the brilliance and intensity of the piano at its most azzling. This virtuosic recital showcases masterworks that push the limits of technique and expression, offering a thrilling journey through fiery
rhythms, lyrical depth, and sheer pianistic power.”
He featured Liszt.
Dinner was in The Alantide Restaurant
MOMMA’S BOY
WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER DARRELL JOYCE
Momma raised me right.
A native of Columbus, Ohio, this 30-year veteran of the comedy circuit and finalist in the Aspen and Montreal Comedy Festivals appears to deliver his cutting style effortlessly, guaranteeing audiences will be doubled over with laughter.
Thursday, April 17, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Amsterdam, Netherland
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
The city of crooked houses
If Amsterdam, its canals, its bridges, and its undeniable charm are here today, we have the henchmen of Florent V, Count of Holland, to thank. It was the abuses of these men that sealed Amsterdam’s fate. Here’s how it happened. We are in the 13th century, in a small fishing village wedged between a dam, a small coastal river, the Amstel, and marshes. This hamlet is ‘visited’ by the soldiers of the Count of Holland. Their behaviour towards the population and their property was so unacceptable that Florent V, to make amends, signed a tax exemption on 27 October 1275, which sealed the town’s fate for good. Thanks to this document, the “Tolprivilege van Amsterdam”, the inhabitants could now travel and move their goods without paying taxes. Naturally, thanks to this enormous privilege on foreign trade, the modest fishing village became a city in just a quarter of a century, an important commercial centre in a century, and then a world capital.
But let’s not forget that Amsterdam, built below sea level, rests on marshland. And when it came to building in a wetland, the city’s ever-growing population soon realised that the only way to prevent the buildings sinking was to build them on stilts. Stilts at least 18 metres long, allowing them to pass under the layer of peat and clay to reach the more stable sand. A traditional dwelling rests on ten of them, and some 11 million poles support all the buildings in the city. This is one of the reasons why Amsterdam is home to the narrowest house in the world, with a facade just 1 metre wide. That and a tax dating back to the 17th century that taxed buildings on their width…
SIGHTS
• Red Light District
• Rijksmuseum
• Van Gogh Museum
• Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder
• Amsterdam Museum
• Nemo Science Museum
• Anne Frank House
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Heineken’s oldest brewery. Experience will reveal the history, brewing process, and marketing of the Netherlands’ most famous beer brand.
The narrow streets of the centre, the canal rings, and the Jordaan area are home to small, independent boutiques, where you can wander for hours in search of that one-of-a-kind find. The city’s markets also represent a variety of treasure troves, as well as being brilliant for taking the pulse of particular districts and soaking up the atmosphere.
Today’s Excursion – Keukenhof Tulip Festival
We visited the world’s most beautiful spring garden, home to over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
Keukenhof
Situated between Amsterdam and The Hague in the Dune and Bulb region is the world’s largest flower garden, Keukenhof, also known as the ‘Garden of Europe’.Keukenhof is only open during the Spring when the tulips are in full bloom.
Keukenhof (‘kitchen garden’) was originally a herb garden, providing herbs for Jacqueline, Countess of Hainaut’s castle.
Today, the garden has bloomed to include 80 acres of paved footpaths that cross lawns, streams, lakes, and pavilions featuring
various exhibitions. The powerful display of colour from over seven million tulips, hyacinths, and narcissi forms a striking contrast with the greens of the grass and the trees. We walked through the themed gardens, complete with fountains and water features that add to the splendour of the Park.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Altantide Restaurant.
COME CROON WITH ME – THE LOVE EDITION
WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JESSE HAMILTON JR
Celebrating the Power of Love!
Singing hits from The Beatles, Otis Redding, Chris Stapleton, and much more! Come Croon with Jesse Hamilton Jr and feel the Love!
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 – Photo of the Day – En Route to Amsterdam, Netherlands
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Rouen, France, to Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Today’s Activities included:
9:45 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn E. Robinson- Amazing Amsterdam
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, is one of the greatest cosmopolitan cities in the world.
11:00 Intermediate Bridge
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Jeffrey A. Weinberg – The View from the Oval Office:
What are the “tools” available to the President? Examine the array of tools available to presidents to enhance their success.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Alastair Bruce of Crioniach- The House of Orange:
A history of the Royal Family of the Netherlands leading to King Willem-Alexander
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
LIMELITE
Experience a magnificent evening of musical entertainment at its best! Limelite is a dynamic show featuring the very best of musical theatre, from New York’s Broadway and London’s West End, as well as some of the most iconic movie musicals. Join your Silversea Singers and Dancers as we bring this Broadway experience to life! Enjoy hits from past productions through to present day, including Grease, ABBA, and The Greatest Showman.
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Rouen, France, and took a day trip to Paris, France.
ROUEN, FRANCE
Land of Men from the North
Normandy, renowned for its lush, rolling landscapes, is now synonymous with tranquility and culinary delights, including Camembert, Calvados, and fresh seafood. But beneath this calm facade, Normandy conceals a vibrant and storied past. A case in point is the fierce battles fought in 1944 by the Allied Forces against Nazi Germany during World War II.
This fiery chapter in history mirrors yet another period of intense conflict that played out over a millennium earlier, when Vikings left their mark on this region. Such was their impact that Normandy, in essence, means the “Land of Men from the North”. The first Viking raids on Neustria, which was known as Normandy before the Viking era, occurred in the late 8th century.
By the mid-9th century, the Vikings had established a permanent settlement in Normandy. In 911, French King Charles the Simple made peace with Viking leader Rollo, who in return pledged his allegiance to the king, converted to Christianity, and took on the task of defending the region against his compatriots.
The Duchy of Normandy thrived, prospering and expanding, establishing Normand realms as far as the Near East. The most significant expansion was in 1066, when Normandy, under William the Conqueror, claimed territories across the English Channel. Harold Godwinson’s ascension to the English throne after William’s contested Edward the Confessor’s death. Asserting his right, William marshalled an impressive armada and crossed the English Channel, culminating in the historic Battle of Hastings. This saga, a pivotal moment in history, is beautifully captured in the famous Bayeux Tapestry, often regarded as the world’s first comic strip.
SIGHTS
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• The Gros Horloge
• Historial Jeanne d’Arc
• A stroll along the River Seine
• The Quartier Libre
• Panorama Sainte-Catherine
• Church of St Joan of Arc
• Rue Saint-Romain
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
There are plenty of restaurants in the historic downtown area and around the Church of St. Joan of Arc, but interesting finds await in the alleys outside the immediate city centre. The area is renowned worldwide for its apples, cider, pears, and dairy products like cheese and milk. Try the apple brandy, Calvados, one of the local specialties. Additionally, some of the finest lamb, duck, and poultry from around the world can be found here.
Shopping in Rouen is a dream for all art enthusiasts. The city offers numerous antique shops, art galleries, and markets. On and around Rue Saint-Romain, right in the centre of the town, you can find many high street and local shops and boutiques.
Today’s Excursion – A day in Paris
We enjoyed a day in Paris, highlighted by a tour of the newly refurbished Notre Dame Cathedral.
After visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral, we went to the Paris suburb of Neuilly-sur-Seine, where we had lived for five years.
VIRTUOSI SHOWTIME WITH
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER RUSTEM HAYROUDINOFF
A celebration of virtuosity and passion, this piano recital features the electrifying brilliance of Chopin and the sweeping romanticism of Rachmaninoff. From delicate lyricism to thunderous intensity, experience the piano as a vessel of both poetic nuance and powerful drama.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
Monday, April 14, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Versailles, France
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Rouen and Versailles, France.
ROUEN, FRANCE
The Mystery of the Telemaque
Not far from Rouen, nestled in a bend of the Seine, lies the quaint town of Quillebeuf-sur-Seine, shrouded in thick mystery surrounding one of France’s most legendary treasures. It is January 8, 1790. The Telemaque, an 80-foot brigantine weighing 120 tons and built in 1772, had set sail from Rouen a few days earlier, carrying a cargo of tallow and nails destined for Brest. As the ship approached Quillebeuf-sur-Seine, it was forced to anchor to secure itself during the passage of a tidal bore. The crew tied the Telemaque firmly to the dock, but the waves were so fierce that they barely had time to evacuate before the vessel sank just 100 meters from the quay, taking a young sailor down with it.
The story could have ended there, but in 1818, a remarkable turn of events occurred. Louis XVIII, the brother of the guillotined King Louis XVI, attempted to salvage the wreck. Although this effort proved futile, it sparked wild speculation. This intrigue was enough to ignite the legend of the Telemaque, which, alongside the Treasure of the Kings of France, was rumored also to conceal the riches of the Church, recently stripped of its real estate and needing to safeguard its movable assets.
Over the centuries, numerous salvage operations took place, all of which were unsuccessful except for one in 1938, which managed to recover the ship’s bow. Among the items found were shoe buckles, crucifixes, and a stunning gold chain that once held a bishop’s pectoral cross. While it was a disappointment for treasure hunters, experts believe that the real treasure lies in the ship’s stern, which became detached after a collision with an English brig. Thus, the legendary treasure remains hidden beneath the waters of the Seine, safeguarding the tale of the Telemaque and the fabulous Treasure of the Kings of France for over 250 years.
SIGHTS
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• The Gros Horloge
• Historial Jeanne d’Arc
• A stroll along the River Seine
• The Quartier Libre
• Panorama Sainte-Catherine
• Church of St Joan of Arc
• Rue Saint-Romain
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
There are plenty of restaurants in the historic downtown area and around the Church of St. Joan of Arc, but interesting finds await in the alleys outside the immediate city centre. The area is renowned worldwide for its apples, cider, pears, and dairy products like cheese and milk. Try the apple brandy, Calvados, one of the local specialties. Additionally, some of the finest lamb, duck, and poultry from around the world are available here.
Shopping in Rouen is a dream for all art enthusiasts. The city offers numerous antique shops, art galleries, and markets. On and around Rue Saint-Romain, right in the centre of the town, you can find many high street and local shops and boutiques.
Today’s Excursion – ROU-B / Monet’s House & Gardens
We explored the life of Monet from a unique perspective during this excursion to the artist’s home and gardens in Giverny.
Giverny and Monet’s House
Monet’s house has been converted into a museum, where reproductions of the artist’s famous works are displayed. The pink-and-green house also contains a collection of Japanese Prints assembled by the artist. We saw the dining room, with its yellow-painted wooden furniture, the bedroom, the ‘blue’ reading room, and the kitchen, featuring attractive wall tiles.
Flower and Water Gardens
The adjacent flower garden, replanted according to Monet’s original designs, features a spectacular array of colors. On the other side of the road is a delightful water garden of Japanese inspiration.
Silverseas World Event – Versailles and Paris, France
Silverseas treated us to an extraordinary World Event. An Evening at the Versailles Palace with Marie Antoinette,
followed by a day in Paris, highlighted by a visit to the newly renovated Notre Dame Cathedral.
An Exclusive Evening at The Palace of Versailles entitled “An Evening at Versailles with Marie Antoinette.”
The regal town of Versailles is renowned worldwide for its significance and historical ties to the French Monarchy.
We enjoyed luxurious accommodations at the Dolce Hotel Versailles, set amidst a natural backdrop.
The evening indulged our regal wanderlust with a once-in-a-lifetime exclusive experience at The Palace of Versailles.
Watch the opening of our invitation to “An Evening with Marie Antoinette” at the Versailles Palace. This was the most exquisite invitation Sandy and I have ever seen. A fellow world cruiser, Richard DeAgazio, recorded his opening of the invitation. ENJOY!
We journeyed back in time to a lavish evening at the fashionable court of Marie Antoinette, the last Queen of France. Our after-hours arrival at the 17th-century French royal residence took us through the iconic Grand Galerie and regal apartments en route to the world-famous Hall of Mirrors, to the majestic Galerie des Batailles. It is here, amidst the massive historic paintings dedicated ‘to all the glories of France,’ that we sipped champagne to the sounds of Rococo minuets and dined on opulent gastronomy prepared by France’s original caterer to the Kings, Potel et Chabot. After period style minuets and chamber music, the evening’s final entertainment was the French Opera singer who opened the Paris Olympics, mezzo-soprano Axelle Saint-Cirel.
Dinner and entertainment were in the majestic Galerie des Batailles.
It is here, amidst the massive historic paintings dedicated ‘to all the glories of France,’ that we sipped champagne to the sounds of Rococo minuets and dined on opulent gastronomy prepared by France’s original caterer to the Kings, Potel et Chabot. After period style minuets and chamber music, the evening’s final entertainment was the French Opera singer who opened the Paris Olympics, mezzo-soprano Axelle Saint-Cirel.
Watch this fantastic video of our “Evening with Marie Antoinette” made by our fellow world cruiser, Richard DeAgazion. WOW!
Sunday, April 13, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Rouen, France
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Rouen, France.
ROUEN, FRANCE
A taste of living life à la française
Oh la la! Prepare yourself for a taste of living life à la française in Rouen. Gothic architecture and history at every turn? Wide, leafy squares and timbered Norman houses? Does enough French food keep your stomach full and your taste buds happy for hours? Yes, Rouen is all that and more. Set on the banks of the Seine and less than two hours from Paris, Rouen is about as French as you can get.
The city’s roots go back to the 10th century when Vikings and Romans claimed the city. If you think the cathedral looks familiar, that is probably because Rouen’s most famous resident, Claude Monet, painted the town in his many canvases. But well before the impressionist painter immortalized Rouen with his beautiful brushwork, the city hosted many other famous faces. Take your pick: William the Conqueror, Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc. While the others may have metaphorically left their hearts, Joan left hers on a funeral pyre in 1431.
A museum of the Roman Catholic Saint was opened in 2015. Touring the city on foot is by far the best way to discover the riches of Rouen. The emblematic Gros Horloge (Big Clock) is by far the city’s number one must-see, but with gothic churches and streets at every turn, every sight is a marvel. If you get bored of strolling the cobbled streets, head for the ceramic museum, in the Hôtel d’Hocqueville, for a wonderful collection of Sèvres porcelain. The elegant seaside resort of Deauville and the D-Day beaches are just a short drive away.
SIGHTS
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• The Gros Horloge
• Historial Jeanne d’Arc
• A stroll along the River Seine
• The Quartier Libre
• Panorama Sainte-Catherine
• Church of St Joan of Arc
• Rue Saint-Romain
SHOPPING
Plenty of restaurants are in the historic downtown and around the Church of St Joan of Arc, but interesting finds await in alleys outside the immediate city centre. The area is renowned worldwide for its apples, cider, pears, and dairy products like cheese and milk. You must try the apple brandy Calvados, one of the local specialities. Also, some of the best lamb, duck, and poultry in the world can be found here.
Shopping in Rouen is a dream come true for all art enthusiasts. The city offers numerous antique shops, art galleries, and markets. On and around Rue Saint-Romain, right in the city center, you can find many high-street and local shops and boutiques.
Today’s Activities included:
9:45 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn E. Robinson – Rouen, France: Gateway to Paris
From the Norman Vikings to Joan of Arc to Monet, Rouen has attracted visitors to its picturesque vistas, which are not far from Paris.
11:00 Intermediate Bridge
Today’s Excursion – Rouen on Foot
Rouen is a city that has stirred the souls of many great writers and inspired numerous painters. It is situated on the north bank of the River Seine and is considered the historic capital of Normandy.
Rouen Walking Tour
After a short drive from the pier, follow your guide on a walking tour of the old part of the city. The narrow streets are lined with more than 700 timber-framed houses, large and small, all characteristic examples of medieval building techniques.
Rue Saint Romain, Rue du Gros Horloge
Walk down rue Saint Romain, one of the town’s most fascinating streets, with the beautiful St-Maclou church of Gothic-
Flamboyant style and along the bustling and popular Rue du Gros Horloge, which features a unique medieval defensive clock
The tower and the nearby law court are in an outstanding Renaissance building.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Enjoy an inside visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Rouen (built between the 13th and the 16th centuries), which is considered
one of the finest achievements of French Gothic art. The attraction of Rouen Cathedral lies in its infinite variety, including an
immense façade bristling with openwork pinnacles and framed by two different towers: the tour St-Romain on the left
and the tour de Beurre on the right.
Old Market Square
Before enjoying some free time, stop at the Place du Vieux Marché. It was on this old market square that Joan of Arc
was burned alive following her trial as a heretic in 1431.
Tonight’s dinner was a traditional London-style family meal at La Terrazza Restaurant.
GENERATIONS OF SOUL
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JESSE HAMILTON JR.
Take a ‘Soulful’ stroll through the decades and over five genres of music! Inspired by the ‘Generations’ of musicians, starting with his own family.
Saturday, April 12, 2025 – Photo of the Day – South Hampton, UK
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Southampton, UK, in southern England.
SOUTHAMPTON, UK
The departure point of the Titanic
Home of the ill-fated Titanic departure, Southampton has a long maritime history. Henry V’s fleet bound for the battle of Agincourt left from here, as did the Mayflower (not from Plymouth as many believe) and the great British ocean liners. Queen Elizabeth 2 and Queen Mary departed on their maiden voyages from the port. So, suffice it to say that Southampton is a seafaring place.
Today, Southampton is the cruise capital of Northern Europe, so expect a city that understands how to have fun. This comes in various ways: a castellated old town with lots of charm, some excellent museums (the most notable of which is the Sea City Museum), and extensive green spaces. Authentic Tudor remains provide a fascinating insight into 15th-century living, while other landmarks date back even further. A stroll around the city is generous in its attractions, so there is no better way to see Southampton than on foot.
Culture-wise, the city’s bustling Guildhall Square is the centre for art, education, and food and drink. Southampton’s location of the south coast of England means just a short distance away lie some interesting spots. Prehistoric enigma Stonehenge is less than an hour away, while Salisbury’s quintessentially English market town is perfect for shopping. Both are well worth a visit. For those who prefer their entertainment crafted by Mother Nature, a short ride to the New Forest will give you peace; think idyllic glades, ancient woodland, open moors, heathland, and cliff top walks.
SIGHTS
• John Hansard Gallery
• Seattle City Museum
• The Stage Door
• Tudor House and Garden
• Go Ape Southampton
• Royal Victoria Country Park
• City Eye
• Mayflower Studios
• Houdini’s Escape Room adventure in Southampton
• Harbour Lights Picturehouse
• The Mayflower Village
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
The city has the best tea rooms, cafes, shops, and restaurants to suit all your foodie needs. If you’re looking for a good drink, Southampton has award-winning cocktail bars, clubs, pubs, wine bars, and even speak-easy bars.
The Mayflower Village is a pub located next to The Mayflower Theatre, serving beer, wine, spirits, and food. It has recently been refurbished and features an area to play ping pong. The pub is well-known for its pizzas and burgers.
Banana Wharf is the perfect spot for birthdays, celebrations, lunch, or breakfast under the sun. It is the premier choice for waterfront al fresco dining. Large decorative murals depicting the industry in full flow can be seen inside all Banana Wharf venues.
Today’s Excursion – Historic Winchester
We discovered the history of Winchester and its legendary sights during this excursion.
Southampton, Central Winchester
We took a stroll to the entrance of Winchester Cathedral and proceeded on a guided walking tour. We learned about the history of Winchester and King Alfred the Great, who united the Kingdom of Wessex and made Winchester its capital in the late 9th century, and ordered the building of Winchester Cathedral and Winchester Castle. We saw the unchanged parts of this original Romanesque building and the fabulous Gothic Nave, which was modernised in the 14th century.
Burial Place of Jane Austen, Great West Window, Winchester Cathedral Tour
Next, visit the burial place of Jane Austen, author of Pride and Prejudice, and admire the Great West Window, which was
smashed by soldiers during the 17th-century Civil War and later repaired with medieval glass after the Restoration of Charles II
in 1660. Learn about William Walker, the diver credited with saving Winchester Cathedral in the early-20th-century, and
walk on floor tiles dating from the 13th century.
Tonight’s dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant
EMOTIONS
A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME
Join the Silversea Singers and Dancers to taste what’s to come.
You will also meet some people who will keep you intrigued and entertained.