Tokyo, Japan
January 13
Author: John
Friday, May 3, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea Enroute to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, USA
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Japan to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, USA.
Today’s activities include:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dancing Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Sir Alistair MacDuff: You be the Judge
- The audience is asked to sit in judgment and make decisions in murder trials. Enter the competition with a prize for the best answers!
- Enrichment Lecture with Scott Bornstein: Never Forget a Name or Face Again
- Six steps to making names and faces unforgettable.
- Enrichment Lecture with Bill Burge
- In the Yucatan Peninsula near Chicxulub, a 10-kilometer-wide asteroid struck the earth 66 million years (MY) ago, creating a ma or impact crater. Following studies in Italy and elsewhere, Mr. Burgel will describe how this asteroid suddenly changes life forever on our planet.
- Enrichment Lecture with Douglas Keeney: Pearl Harbor. The Day Of The Day After.
- No matter the cruise, this talk is always loved by audiences. We all know what happened on December 7th — but what did happen — and why was America so unprepared? Author Keeney presents the attack on Pearl Harbor using custom-built animations for his talk, period photography, and first-person accounts.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Farewell Dinner – Sayōnara Japan
The Restaurant had a celebratory farewell to the “land of the rising sun”. A delicious Japanese-themed dinner experience awaited us, and we indulged in mouthwatering Japanese delicacies, including some of Japan’s famous sweet delights! We dressed up in Japanese/Asian attire.
TONIGHT’S CABARET SHOW – A NIGHT WITH LEFA
Motown, blues, and all that rhythm! Get your dancing shoes on and join Lefa Pike
this evening while he sings some all-time classics from artists such as The Blues
Brothers, The Drifters, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, and many more!
Lefa is a vocalist with extensive experience performing South African pop,
international pop, rock, soul, R&B, reggae, and jazz. He began performing in small
venues at the age of 19. He then trained at Ochrim School of Music in his early 20’s for 2 years. Soon after, he was featured as a participant on eTV’s CocaCola Pop Stars and, later in his career – a top five finalist on South Africa Idol.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Thursday, May 2, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, USA
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Japan to Dutch Harbor, Alaska.
Today’s Activities Included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Bill Burgel: 2004 Boxing Day Earthquake and Tsunami
- At 8am local time on December 26th, 2004, a magnitude 9.2M subduction earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra creating localized destruction but also generating a massive tsunami that swept through many islands of Indonesia, as well as the nearby countries of Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, and the east coast of Africa. Mr. Burgel visited the area soon after the quake and will describe the geologic processes that led up to this event.
- Enrichment Lecture with Sir Alistair MacDuff: Murder Cases To Die For
- More tales from the Bench; the murder of the beautiful model; gangster murders; and more insight into life as an English judge
- Enrichment Lecture with Douglas Keeney: Orbit! The Daring New Era in Human Space Travel
- Musk, Bezos, and Branson want to take us beyond our dreams. Will they? From Keeney’s three books on human space flight comes the sequel to Lights of Mankind. What does it take to go into space in 2024 and why is Mars a reality? Includes images of the new commercial space stations, the most recent SpaceX missions, and numerous animations. Concludes with profiles of Musk, Bezos and Branson.
Dinner was in The Restaurant.
with Egg, Tomato and Cucumber Garnish
with Red Pepper Coulis
Served with Cilantro and Chili-gratinated Avocado
Baked Meringue · Pastry Cream · Peach Compote · Fresh kiwi
Chocolate Mousse · Chocolate Sponge Cake · Chocolate Glazed · Whipped Cream
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH GIOVANNI PALMINTERI VIRTUOSO BARITONE
Giovanni Palminteri is a Classical Baritone, Showman, and Actor.
He has performed his soloist concert in opera houses around the world and was the first Opera baritone to perform during the “World Cruise” event aboard the Silver Whisper for many years. Some of his productions include Made in Italy, Il Bel Canto, Passione, Teatro Dell’Opera, and the new show Virtuoso Baritone.
Giovanni recently made his debut in La Traviata, playing Giorgio Germont at the Ancient Greek Theater in Taormina alongside the famous soprano Desireè Rancatore.
He is known for the role of Figaro in Gioacchino Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, which debuted in various theaters in Italy. He also played the role of Dandini – La Cenerentola (C.Gounod), Malatesta – Don Pasquale (G.Donizetti), Belcore – l’Elisir d’Amore (G.Donizetti), Don Giovanni-Don Giovanni (W.A.Mozart), Papageno – The Magic Flaute (W.A.Mozart), Silvio – I Pagliacci (R. Leoncavallo) and Carmina Burana (Carl Orff). His next debut will be at the ancient theater of Taormina in the opera Carmen by Georges Bizet this summer.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Otaru, Japan
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Otaru, in northeast Japan.
OTARU, JAPAN
FAMOUS FOR ITS GLASS PRODUCTS, MUSIC BOXES, AND ALCOHOL BEVERAGES
Otaru is a small harbor city west of Sapporo. Famous for its many hills and a nearby ski resort, the town has been an
important trade and herring fishing center since the 1800s. A wide canal that led from the port to the old town’s
warehouses, built by foreign shipping and trading companies, has been maintained for touristic purposes.
The old stone or brick-built warehouses have been beautifully converted into restaurants and boutiques.
Local artists display their crafts by the daytime, while old-fashioned gas lamps illuminate the area with a gentle glow by
night, making it a pleasant place to stroll at any time. However, the canal area is undoubtedly at its most photogenic
during the Otaru Snow Light Path festival, held each year in February, when the city is decorated with hundreds of
enchanting candle-lit snow lanterns.
After you’ve explored the canal and its surroundings, continue your time-traveling as you take a turn along Sakaimachi
Street, a well-preserved traditional merchant street, explores some of its quirky museums before heading for a well-deserved
sushi lunch. The street is lined with impressive Western-style buildings constructed in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and many of the exteriors of the buildings have been carefully preserved.
Sakaimachi Street is also home to a handful of interesting museums, like the Museum of Venetian Art, opened by local
glass producer Kitaichi. It is dedicated to showcasing the arts of Venice, including Venetian glassware, clothing, furniture, and a full-scale gondola. Another highlight is the Music Box Museum, Japan’s largest music
box shop and an internationally well-known sightseeing attraction in Otaru.
OTARU MUSIC BOX MUSEUM
In the historical building of the Otaru Music Box Museum, more than 25,000 music boxes of 3,400 kinds are displayed and sold. The Otaru Music Box Museum (“Otaru Orgel Doh” in Japanese) is Japan’s largest music box store. The store is divided into five floors according to different themes, with beautifully decorated and beautifully sounding music boxes lined up. You can find your favorite from a wide range of products, from affordable to luxurious ones.
SIGHTS
- Otaru Aquarium
- Otaru Museum
- Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck
- Tanaka Sake Brewery, Kikkogura
- Sankaku Market
- Old Aoyama Villa (Herring Palace)
Today’s Excursion – Highlights of Sapporo
Historical Village
Explore the history and culture of the island of Hokkaido during a visit to the Historical Village of Hokkaido, an
authentic village recreated with preserved and replicated buildings from Hokkaido’s frontier days. Located in Nopporo Forest
Park, this outdoor museum, was opened to the public in 1983 to show the buildings and the life of Sapporo’s early pioneers.
Sapporo City
Proceed to Sapporo city which is the prefectural capital of Hokkaido. The Sapporo TV Tower serves as an easily recognizable
symbol of Sapporo. The tower’s height is 483 feet, and its observation level, 296 feet, gives a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city of Sapporo. The beautiful Odori Park stretches out directly in front of the TV tower. The park is 1.5 kilometers long and is key in major Sapporo tourist events. Completed in December 1888, the red brick Former Hokkaido Government Building is a beloved tourist site in Sapporo. The Japanese government has designated it an important cultural asset, which you can view from the comfort of the coach.
Japanese Lunch and Hitsujigaoka Hill
After a Japanese lunch, you will drive up to Hitsujigaoka Hill, which offers a beautiful view of pastureland with sheep grazing.
The hill, part of the Hokkaido Agricultural Experimental Station of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, was
opened to visitors in 1959. A statue of Dr. William Clark stands on the hill. Dr. Clark, dispatched from the U.S. in 1876, taught
English and botany at Sapporo Agricultural College, the forerunner of Hokkaido University. Although he was only a faculty member for nine months, he is remembered for his parting words, “Boys, be ambitious!”
Hokkaido Shrine
The last stop is the Hokkaido Shrine ( a Shinto Shrine), the largest shrine in Hokkaido, built in 1869 and completed in 1871. It was initially named Sapporo Shrine. A fire destroyed the shrine in 1974, and it was rebuilt in 1978. It is in the
Maruyama Park, which has a lot of greenery. A spiritual place abundant with nature, where the wild birds tweet inside the shrine, and Hokkaido squirrels scurry about.
TONIGHT’S SHOW – COMEDIAN TONY DARO
Tony Daro’s hilarious routines have made him one of the established stars of the New York comedy scene. Tony’s first television appearance was as a child on “Wonderama,” where he lost at Simon Says. Tony overcame this humiliating television debut and began performing in summer stock as a teenager. After high school, he won an acting scholarship at the world-renowned Dramatic Workshop.
This led to various Off-Broadway productions. When he was 19, Sylvester Stallone hired Tony as his stand-in for the film “Rocky 2”. At 20, Bob Keeshan (more famously known as “Captain Kangaroo”) hired Tony to star in a television pilot for CBS. For reasons still unknown to him to this day, he drifted into standup comedy. (Maybe it was all those.
George Carlin records he listened to as a kid?) Soon, people began asking him to write jokes for them, eventually leading to writing jobs with Jay Leno, Bill Maher, David Letterman, Jimmy Fallon, and Tina Fey. He has dozens of television appearances, has won multiple Writer’s Guild awards for comedy writing, and was nominated for an Emmy Award for his work on “Saturday Night Live.”
Tony is the rare comedian who can be both inoffensive and gut-busting funny.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Tuesday, April 30, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Hakodate, Japan
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Hakodate, Japan, on the northeast coast.
HAKODATE, JAPAN
BEST KNOWN FOR THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS FROM MOUNT HAKODATE
Gaze down over Hakodate from its namesake peak – Mount Hakodate – to see the city stretching out spectacularly, with back-to-back twin bays splitting the ocean. Hakodate port was one of the first to open Japan up to the world and international trade in 1859 – a fact reflected in the architecture, with its influences from the West and beyond.
The port area is a redbrick wash of warehouses turned shopping malls, all observed by the onion domes of the city’s
Russian Orthodox church. Elsewhere, the star-shaped Goryokaku fortress glows with natural colors and a beautiful
haze of cherry blossoms during the season. Goryokaku Tower, which rises beside it, offers a sweeping bird’s eye view
of the green fortress and mountain backdrop.
Buses trundle up the 335-meter incline to the top of Mount Hakodate, but the best way to reach the views is to
jump on the ropeway, which swings high above downtown buildings over a carpet of pine trees. Head up to the
mountain’s heights as sunset approaches. The panorama is one of Japan’s most spectacular, with darkness sweeping in and the lights flickering to life.
Soak it all in and look out to the horizon, dotted with the shimmering lights of ships hauling in harvests of the city’s
renowned squid. The plankton-rich waters attract a delicious variety of feasting sea life to Hakodate’s coast, which is
then plated up in the city’s numerous skilled restaurants. For an eye-opening, whirring morning, see the freshest seafood and
produce being doled out at Hakodate Morning Market – amid a cacophony of noise and activity.
MT. HAKODATE OBSERVATORY
It’s a three-minute trip across the sky, offering spectacular panoramas of Hakodate and the surrounding bay, sea, and mountains. Inside the observatory is a gift shop selling Mt. Hakodate-limited merchandise, as well as a restaurant where you can enjoy the chefs’ signature Japanese and Western cuisine while gazing at the night view, which is full of infinite
lights. The view from Mt. Hakodate was awarded three stars by Michelin!
SIGHTS
- Goryōkaku (Historical place)
- Goryōkaku Tower
- Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward
- Our Lady of the Angels Trappistine Abbey
- Cape Tachimachi
- Hakodate Hachimangu
Today’s Excursion – Strolling Around Motomachi District
Walking through this historic city, we discovered Hakodate’s beauty, culture, and charm on foot.
Hakodate Morning Market
We started with a guided stroll through the bustling Hakodate Morning Market, engulfed by cars and people from when the 400 stalls opened at 5 a.m. Discover an abundance of fresh fish and seafood, including squid, salmon eggs, sea urchins, and hairy crabs, all of which Hokkaido is famous for. The garden also offers fresh, locally-grown vegetables, flowers, and household goods.
The pictures below are a test in “Name that seafood item.”
Motomachi District and Churches
We boarded a tram at the Hakodate-ekimae Tram Station for a short ride to Jujigai Station. Upon arrival, we walked up the inclined streets of the Motomachi District. Along the way, we saw historic churches such as the Gothic-style Motomachi Roman Catholic Church, famous for the altar presented to it by Pope Benedict XV. The view from the hill is stunning and reflects the contrast between the hill, churches, and shoreline.
Mount Hakodate and Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
Our tour continued with a Hakodate Ropeway cable car ride up to the all-weather observatory at the 1,100-foot summit, which generally offers spectacular panoramic vistas over the surrounding area. Unfortunately, we were fogged in today. Afterward, the cable car went down, and our walking tour continued on foot to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse. Remodeled in 1988 as part of the redevelopment of Hakodate’s waterfront, this area’s old, red-brick warehouses have been converted into bars and restaurants.
Goryokaku Park and Tower
Sandy took a taxi to Goryokaku Park. The park is home to the remaining walls of Japan’s first Western-style fort. The fort is named Goryokaku, or ‘Pentagon Fort’ due to its star shape. Nothing is left of the citadel, which was constructed
by the Togukawa Shogunate to defend Japan against the threats from the north.
Sandy rode the elevator up to the Observation Deck of the 351-foot-tall tower at the park entrance and took in splendid views of the park’s cherry blossoms, the fort, Mt. Hakodate, and the downtown area.
Sandy’s last stop was at a local shrine to get a Temple Stamp in her Temple Stamp Book.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Japanese Sticky Rice served with Smoked Eel, Sweet Soy Wasabi Sauce, Scallion
Chicken Broth with Rice Ball, Vegetable Juliennes, Pulled Chicken , Mirin , Soy Sauce
Handpicked Crab Meat · Seafood Broth · Armagnac · Double Cream
Marinated Panko Crumbed Fresh Local Seabass, Yakisoba. Wasabi Kewpie Sauce
Marinated Panko Crumbed Fresh Local Seabass, Yakisoba. Wasabi Kewpie Sauce
Japanese Style Cheese Cake Flavored with Matcha Green Tea served with Strawberry Coulis, Lemon Whip Cream
TONIGHT’S SHOW – BOOGIE FEVER
Join us in the Show Lounge for an entertaining evening!
Get on your boogie shoes and feel the heat in your feet as you join our Silversea Singers and Dancers for some disco fever and explosive dance moves, bound to get your toes tapping and heads bobbing.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Monday, April 29, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Hakodate, Japan
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Kanazawa, Japan, to Hokodate, Japan.
Today’s Activities Included:
Destination Lecture with Michael DiSpezio: Hakodate, Otaru, and Beyond.
Hear about the sites, history, and culture of our final Japanese ports – plus, find out more about our Pacific Ocean crossing.
Enrichment Lecture with Bill Burgel: History of Plate Tectonics
Key discoveries in the 1960s led scientists to endorse the concept of sea-floor spreading and continental drift, which is now known as the Plate Tectonics theory. Mr. Burgel will lead a lively discussion on why Yellowstone is so active, what caused the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, and what’s happening in Iceland.
Enrichment Lecture with Sir Alistair MacDuff: The Cromford Taxi Murder
The remarkable tale of a man who devised the “perfect murder” but was caught by brilliant detective work.
Enrichment Lecture with Douglas Keeney: Lights of Mankind – Earth at Night as Seen from Space
Tokyo, the Korean Peninsula, world cities—what do we see when we see them from space…at night? This is Earth at Night from Space, based on Keeney’s bestselling book of the same title, written with five NASA astronauts.
TONIGHT’S SHOW – A KALEIDOSCOPE OF KLASSICS
A kaleidoscopic catalog of classic artists, from Elvis to Elton, Whitney to Tina, and everything in between. Our Silversea Vocalists and our Dancers present a show where you will be rocking and rolling in your seats with something to satisfy everyone’s favorite musical shade.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Hand-picked King Crab Meat · Mango · Red Pepper Coulis · Micro Greens
Vegetable Bouquetiere · Steakhouse Fries · Béarnaise or Veal Jus
Wafer thin Slices of Beef Striploin · Lemongrass · Lime Leaves · Thai Chilli · Galangal · Garlic · Soya Sauce · Sambal
Lime Curd · Crystallized Ginger · Meringue · Caramel Sauce · Sweet Pastry Tart
Poached Peach with Vanilla Ice Cream, Raspberry Coulis, Chantilly Cream and Toasted Almonds
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Sunday, April 28, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Kanazawa, Japan
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Kanazawa, on the West Coast of Japan.
KANAZAWA, JAPAN
A CASTLE TOWN WITH OVER 400 YEARS OF RICH HISTORY
The capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa, once rivaled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) as a town rich in cultural achievements. Kanazawa escaped destruction during World War II and has preserved many old districts in good shape.
The city is famous because of Kenrokuen. Located next to Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen is classified as “One of the Three
Gardens of Japan”. The garden has an artificial pond, and hills and houses are dotted within the 11.4 hectares. It has
Japan’s oldest fountain uses natural water pressure and has a tea house dating back to 1774.
Close by is the Higashi Chaya Gai Geisha District, designated a National Cultural Asset and the biggest of the Geisha
districts of Kanazawa. Some houses retain the original structure and are still used as Geisha houses.
Some of the streets have traditional shops, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
Kanazawa is known for its lacquer ware, Kutani-style pottery, gold-leaf workmanship, and delicately painted silk
kimonos.
HIGASHI CHAYA DISTRICT
The name Higashi Chaya-gai means “Eastern Teahouse District” because the chaya, or teahouses, were where wealthy customers would be entertained by geisha with traditional music, dancing, and drinking games. The geisha houses in Higashi Chaya have a stunning traditional appearance of a geisha house built almost 200 years ago, as well as old buildings refurbished into restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops.
SIGHTS
- Kenroku-en Garden
- D.T. Suzuki Museum
- Oyama Shrine
- Kanazawa Castle Park
- Omicho Market
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
Today’s Excursion – Ancient & Modern Kanazawa
Kenroku-en Garden
One of the three celebrated “Great Gardens of Japan.” This 25-acre landscape garden was originally developed by the great
daimyo of Kanazawa Castle. Kenroku-en boasts Japan’s first fountain, a teahouse dating to 1774, and a pagoda donated to the Maeda clan by the great warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The celebrated Ganko-bashi is a bridge comprising 11 red stones laid out to resemble a formation of flying geese.
Gold Leaf Experience
A gold leaf is made by beating gold into an extremely thin sheet with a meter thickness of 0.1 to 0.125 millionths. It is so
thin that it will disappear when you rub it with your fingers. The production of gold leaf started in Kanazawa at the end of the
16th century, and more than 98% of the products were produced in Kanazawa.
Higashi Chaya Geisha District
Proceed to Higashi Chaya Geisha District. A Chaya, a teahouse, is an exclusive restaurant where guests are entertained by geishas performing songs and dances. During the Edo Period, Chaya was found in designated entertainment districts, usually just outside the city limits. The largest one of the chaya districts in Kanazawa is the Higashi Chaya district. The construction of two-story houses, except teahouses, was prohibited in the Edo period. Homes are still in use and well preserved by residents, maintaining the atmosphere of that time…Now, many craft shops ideal for souvenir shopping are located in the area.
We had a 7-course Japanese lunch in the Geshia district.
Nagamachi District
Continue your visit to Nagamachi District. Nagamachi was a samurai district located at the foot of the former Kanazawa
Castle, where samurai and their families used to reside. The area preserves a historic atmosphere with its remaining samurai
residences, earthen walls, private entrance gates, narrow lanes, and water canals. One of the district’s main attractions is
the centrally located Nomura Samura House, a restored samurai residence displaying the lifestyle and artifacts of the era when samurai were prosperous. A short walking tour of the Nagamachi Samura district will be followed by a visit to the Nomura Samurai Family Residence. The family successively held executive posts from generation to generation under the rule of the Maeda family. The house has a coffered ceiling made of Japanese cypress and fusuma-e (paintings on sliding-door panels) created by the Maeda family’s painter. The garden inside the residence has a Japanese bayberry over 400 years old and a meandering stream surrounded by ancient and strangely shaped rocks.
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH VAN-ANH NGUYEN
AWARD-WINNING VIRTUOSO PIANIST
ARIA nominated concert pianist and recording artist Van-Anh Nguyen to become the first Australian-Vietnamese to enter the US iTunes Classical Charts. After starting piano studies at 13 months old, the Australian-born concert pianist made her Sydney Opera House debut at age 8.
Her ability to perform classically and have the stage flair for creative classical-crossover arranging and mash-ups has allowed her to perform for such brands as Moet & Chandon, Porsche, Barons de Rothschild, and Ferrari, to name a few.
Van-Anh currently has 10 albums released on all major digital music outlets. She has been featured as a music icon in various publications, including L’Officiel Magazine, Elle Magazine Vietnam, Sunday Life, Marie Claire Australia, and Harper’s Bazaar Magazine. Her TV show has been on Discovery Channel Asia. Van-Anh is a Roland Artist and ambassador.
She now resides between Sydney and Los Angeles. For more information, please see www.vananhofficial.com
Check out these seven videos of her show and be amazed at her talent!
Tonight’s dinner was a family night dinner in La Terrazza.
Check out today’s Chronicle./
Saturday, April 27, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Kanazawa, Japan
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Busan, South Korea, to Kanazawa, Japan.
Today’s Activities Include:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Lecturer Scott Bornstein: Master Your Memory Power – How the mind and memory work
Destination Lecture with Michael DiSpezio: Kanazawa and More Things Japanese
Learn what to expect as we visit Kanazawa and extend our understanding of Japanese culture, history, and interactions beyond the main island.
Enrichment Lecture with Lecturer Sir Alistair MacDuff: The Nuremberg Trial 1945-6
A look at the trial of Nazi War Criminals with an up-to-date judicial perspective on the jurisprudence underpinning a significant development of international law
MEET ENRICHMENT LECTURER – BILL BURGEL
Bill retired in 2010 after a successful 40-year career in the railroad industry. Bill worked for several railroads in both the engineering and operating departments. After departing from Union Pacific Railroad in 1989, he assisted the Surface Transportation Board as their rail operations manager for two major mergers, once in Washington, DC, and the second in Chicago. While working for the railroad, his interest and training in geology were often called upon to resolve landslide issues and rerouting studies, implement early earthquake warning strategies, and conduct numerous long railroad tunnel analyses.
In addition to his many talks regarding the rail industry, Bill has given numerous presentations on earthquake preparedness and topics about regional geology to local audiences throughout the Pacific Northwest and, more recently, to the cruise ship industry.
BOAT BUILDING COMPETITION
YOUR CHANCE TO GET CREATIVE AND CRAFTING
THE OFFICIAL START WAS ON 23 APRIL, AND THE JUDGING ON 8 MAY
A renowned and highly anticipated World Cruise tradition is our annual boat-building
competition. In this entertaining contest, we call all our guests to put their brains and creativity to the test in building a ‘Sea-Worthy’ boat. The boats must undergo specific trials and challenges to be crowned the Silver Shadow champion. You are invited to work alone or in teams. The boat will be tested on overall creativity of design and presentation,
ability to float un-assisted in the pool, and how much it can hold (the weights used will be 12oz. cans, so the ship needs to be designed to hold those types of weights).
You may use any materials you can find around the ship to construct your boat, provided that you will not cause damage to any property of the Silver Shadow. We also want you to ‘create’ your ship, so there is no use of large materials such as life jackets, trash cans, etc., and the ship’s total length can be no longer than 40 inches (100cm). We will set up a table with materials available for you to use in your ship’s construction. Be as creative as you want in your presentation and design, and most importantly, HAVE FUN!
Pre-Dinner Showtime! Silversea proudly presents “MOTOWN”
Our Silversea Vocalists and Dancers for an evening of Motown music.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
with Lime Mousseline and Fennel Mango Confit
Indian Curry Broth with Seafood and Vegetables
Crunchy Garden Greens · Grilled Goat Cheese · Red Onion · Cherry Tomatoes · Balsamic Dressing · Nuts · Figs
Glass Noodles · Sesame Oil · Fresh Ginger · Chili · Shiitake Mushrooms · Turmeric · Red Bell Peppers · Carrots · Bean Sprouts · Soy Sauce
with a Baked Potato Terrine
‘Domori Apurimac’ Mousse · Forest Berry Fruit Paste · Cocoa Sponge · Cocoa Glaze
Eggs · Cream · Palm Sugar · Crystalised Ginger · Lime Confide · Vanilla Ice Cream
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Friday, April 26, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Busan, South Korea
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Busan in Southeast Korea.
BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA
FROM BEACHES AND MOUNTAINS TO HISTORIC SITES, MUSEUMS, AND TEMPLES
A tapestry of kaleidoscopic colors, intense seafood flavors, and urban beach bliss, Busan rolls across a glorious
natural setting on the Korean Peninsula’s southeast. One of the largest and busiest ports in the world, 3.5 million
people call South Korea’s second city home, and the amiable locals help to lend the city its quirky, offbeat outlook.
A spacious, playful, and cosmopolitan place, Busan is a lively, liveable city cradled by lush mountains and endless
ocean scenery. Haedong Yonggung Temple nestles on a dramatic cliffside, just above the crumbling rocks and
crashing waves of the East Sea. Dating back to 1376, the temple’s multi-story pagoda is adorned with lions – each
representing a different emotion.
Elsewhere, lanterns glitter in the night sky around Mount Geumjeongsan, freshly released from the beautiful
Beomeosa Temple, which was established in AD 678. The hillside shantytown of Gamcheon Culture Village has
completed an improbable transformation, blossoming from a sea of makeshift homes for Korean war refugees into a
colorful explosion of creativity and curiosity.
Local artists have been let loose to create interactive installations, and the entire area is now an expansive canvas for
expression. Lose yourself among this unique area’s vibrant alleyways of flamingo-pink, lemon-yellow, and baby-blue painted facades. Sample bibimbap, fiery-hot beef, and rice from street food vendors before relaxing on one of South
Korea’s best beaches – Haeundae’s banana bend of sand.
Metallic skyscrapers offer an unusual backdrop to this pristine expanse of golden powder. Elaborate sandcastles and sculptures mirror them during the annual sand festival – spontaneous water fights and firework displays also
occur. Gwangalli Beach is another urban option, laying out spectacular views of the reaching Gwangan Bridge –
the country’s second-largest bridge. At night, 16,000 bulbs bathe this engineering marvel in color.
GAMCHEON CULTURE VILLAGE
Refugees settled in Gamcheon Village during the Korean War and cultivated the mountainous region to make a living. In 2009, students, artists, and residents decorated the village as a part of the Village Art Project, and the town has grown into a leading tourist attraction in Busan. Due to its houses being built in staircase fashion on the foothills of a coastal mountain, it received the nickname “Machu Picchu of Busan.” Many alleys are vibrantly decorated with murals and sculptures created by the residents.
SIGHTS
- Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
- Gukje Market
- BIFF Square
- Diamond Tower (Busan Tower)
- Haeundae Beach
- Songdo Bay Station
Today’s Excursion – Introduction to Busan
During this scenic and informative half-day introductory excursion, we discovered Busan’s history, culture, and local life.
UN Memorial Cemetery
The UN Memorial Cemetery honors UN soldiers from 16 countries, and UN aids from five countries who were killed in battle during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. It is also the only memorial cemetery in the world dedicated to UN soldiers. This serene park covers an expansive, grassy plain area featuring halls, memorials, monuments, and ponds.
Busan Museum
Opened in 1978, the Busan Museum plays a leading role in preserving Busan’s historical and cultural heritage. It offers seven regular exhibition rooms spread over three floors, displaying thousands of artifacts collected from the Busan and Gyeongnam areas and the Kiln and Outdoor Exhibition halls. The Outdoor Exhibition Hall is home to precious pagodas, Buddhist statues, and monuments. A new exhibition hall displays many relics from the Prehistoric Age to modern times.
During the Korean War, Busan was one of only two cities in South Korea not captured by the North Korean army. As a result, the city became refugee campsites for 500,000 Koreans during the war.
The Jagalchi Fish Market is a bustling, harbor-side market that stretches into the downtown area and offers fresh seafood, including mountains of fresh seafood and shellfish on ice. Sea air and resonant voices of the market folk combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Gukje International Market
Our final stop was at the Gukje Market. Merchants formed Busan’s largest and most central market area, which had descended from refugees from the Korean War. The alleyways are divided into six market districts offering various goods, including silk, linen, clothing, bags, glasses, and curtains.
Sandy went on her one excursion with other ship ladies to Haedong Yonggung Temple. It nestles on a dramatic cliffside, just above the crumbling rocks and crashing waves of the East Sea. Dating back to 1376, the temple’s multi-story pagoda is adorned with lions – each representing a different emotion.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Korean Beef Tartare Seasoned with Ginger · Sesame Seed and Oil · Scallions · Garlic Soy Sauce · Fish Sauce and Chillies · served with Bean Sprout Salad and Garlic Bread
Onion Confit · Quail Egg · Potatoes · Green Beans · Olive Tapenade · Seared Saku Tuna
Spicy Chicken · Cabbage and Potato Soup Flavoured with Ginger · Chilli Paste Fish Sauce and Soy Sauce
Vegetable Bouquetiere · Steakhouse Fries · Béarnaise or Veal Jus
Vegetable Bouquetiere · Steakhouse Fries · Béarnaise or Veal Jus
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW – KOREAN TRADITIONAL SHOW
Music has always been with us throughout Korea’s 5,000-year history. The spirit of traditional music and the artistic expressions of Korea’s emotions are very much alive in the various music and dances. The performance team that has been involved in these arts for over ten years will present today the six best-performing arts of Korea: Taepyeongmu, Fan dance, Fusion Contemporary Gugak strings, Janggu Dance, and Sangmo Dance.
These outstanding artists feature in the music and dances of the royal palaces and the folk music that has been part of ordinary people’s daily lives. Enjoy an evening of color, movement, and beautifully blended music in these traditional Korean performances.
After the show, we went outside and took these pictures of a bridge with lights.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Thursday, April 25, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Nagasaki, Japan
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Nagasaki, in southern Japan.
NAGASAKI, JAPAN
VOLCANOES, BEAUTIFUL OFFSHORE ISLANDS, HISTORIC BUILDINGS & HOT-SPRING SPAS
Utterly devastated in just a few seconds, Nagasaki was the target of the second US atomic bomb as World War II
moved toward its horrifying conclusion. More than 50,000 were killed, and the stories here are harrowing and poignant. The fact that Nagasaki still stands and has embarked on a new mission to promote global peace with a message of hope
The scars the city wears will never heal, but the color, culture, and creativity of Nagasaki may surprise you.
The Memorial Hall is a glass structure of meditation and messages of peace left by visitors from everywhere.
NAGASAKI KOSHIBYO CONFUCIUS SHRINE
The Shrine was built in 1893. It is the only Confucian mausoleum constructed by the Chinese outside China. Renovated in 1982 with the support of the Chinese government, the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius in Qufu, Shandong Province, this temple is a unique structure that blends the architectural styles of both Southern and Northern China.
SIGHTS
- Peace Park Nagasaki
- Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
- Megane Bridge
- Hashima Island
- Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium
Today’s Excursion – Historical Nagasaki
We discovered why Nagasaki is known as Japan’s ‘Gateway to the West.’
Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture
Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture is one of the few museums in Japan dedicated to the history of International
Exchange. The Museum holds an extensive collection of historical documents, art, and craftworks that tell the story of Nagasaki, the only window open to foreign countries during Japan’s period of seclusion. In addition, part of the Nagasaki Magistrate’s Office (a local agency of the central government in the Edo period) has been faithfully reconstructed based on historical materials, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of feudal Japan. The exhibits are displayed to ensure an instructive and enjoyable experience.
Dejima Museum
Dejima was a Portuguese and later a Dutch trading post at Nagasaki from 1634 to 1854.
It was also the location for trade with the Chinese and the only place designated for foreign trade and exchange during the Japanese Edo period. Dejima was a small fan-shaped artificial island in the bay of Nagasaki covering an area of 390ft. x 250ft. and was built in 1634 to house Portuguese traders and separate them from Japanese society by digging a canal through a small peninsula. The Dutch were moved to Dejima in 1641 for most of the Edo period. The islands were the single place of direct trade between Japan and the outside world. The “Dejima Dutch Trading Post” was designated a Japanese National Historic site in 1922.
Peace Memorial Park
On August 9, 1945, at 11:02 AM. an atomic bomb exploded. The fierce blast and heat rays reached several thousand degrees. Deadly radiation generated by the explosion burned and killed everything in sight and reduced the entire area to a bare field of rubble. About one-third of Nagasaki City was destroyed. Peace Memorial Park is home to a beautiful memorial fountain and statues donated from countries around the world leading to the 30-foot-high Statue of Peace.
Sandy went to a shrine to get a Temple Stamp.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Sushi Rice wrapped in Black Seaweed, stuffed with Crab, Spicy Tuna served with Soy Dipping Sauce, Pickle Ginger, Wasabi
Japanese-style pork cutlet. Cabbage. Hibachi Rice, Soy Sauce
Homemade Grano Duro Pasta ∙ Homemade Tomato Sauce ∙ Bechamel Sauce Mozzarella Cheese ∙ Celery ∙ Fresh Spinach Leaves Butter ∙ 26-Month DOP Parmesan Cheese
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH VAN-ANH NGUYEN
AWARD-WINNING VIRTUOSO PIANIST
ARIA-nominated concert pianist and Universal/Decca/Deutsche Grammophon recording artist Van-Anh Nguyen became the first Australian-Vietnamese to enter the US iTunes Classical Charts.
Born to Vietnamese refugee musicians and starting piano studies at 13 months, the Australian-born concert pianist made her Sydney Opera House debut at age 8.
Her bubbly, contagious personality and emotive playing have graced the stages as a soloist across Australia at venues including the Sydney Opera House, City Recital Hall, the Forbidden City Concert Hall (China), the Shanghai Oriental Arts Centre (China), Segerstrom Performing Arts Center (LA), Herbst Theater (SF).
Her ability to perform classically and her stage flair for creative classical-crossover arranging and mashups have allowed her to perform for such brands as Moet & Chandon, Porsche, Barons de Rothschild, the Patron Secret Society, Fairfax & Roberts, Vicki Lee Gallery, and Ferrari, to name a few.
Van-Anh has ten albums released on all major digital music outlets, with her most recent release on Deutsche Grammophon. She has been featured as a music icon in various publications, including L’Officiel Magazine, Elle Magazine Vietnam, Sunday Life, Marie Claire Australia, and Harper’s Bazaar Magazine, and she has had her own TV show on Discovery Channel Asia.
Van-Anh is the creator and owner of Perfect Pairings, a concert concept in which she pairs music with wine. This concept has appeared in six countries, working with various vineyards, sommeliers, and chefs, and has subsequently led to her launching her wine.
Van-Anh is a Roland Artist & Ambassador. She now resides between Sydney and Los Angeles. For more information, please see www.vananhofficial.com
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Kagoshima, Japan
Where in the World Are We?
In Kagoshima, in Southeastern Japan.
KAGOSHIMA, JAPAN
AN OTHERWORLDLY BLEND OF THE TRADITIONAL AND TROPICAL
One of Japan’s most southerly significant cities, Kagoshima is dominated by the imposing Sakurajima volcano’s cone – a
a legendary active volcano that broods, churns, and puffs out ash nearby. A pretty old-time ferry chugs across the still
waters to the gently sloping foothills of the volcano’s cone, and it’s easy to imagine where the comparisons with its
sister city Naples materialized as you sailed the glorious sweeping Kinko Bay, below beaming sunshine, towards the
immense volcanic spectacle.
This is undoubtedly no historical relic, and the volcano remains revered and feared, with the most dramatic recent eruption
in 1914 spewing out a new bridge of land into the sea. Make the most of the geothermal activity
in the area by indulging in a stress-simmering black sand bath. Incredibly relaxing, you’ll be submerged in the warm
sand as you feel your muscles relaxing in the heat and rejuvenating blood pumping around your body.
Enjoy a privileged view of the iconic volcano’s loom from the terraced garden of Senganen Garden. Built in 1658, this
elegant, traditional garden has belonged to the Shimadzu family for 350 years. Wander the gardens – which bloom
with Japan’s renowned cherry tree blossoms and feature tiny bridges looping over ponds and rock pools – before
sitting back and sipping a wholesome green matcha latte.
Elsewhere, museums offer Feudal Era and Satsuma Province history and insights into the Kamikaze squadrons
of World War II. Lake Ikeda is also nearby, so watch for the legendary Issie monster.
SAKURAJIMA VOLCANIC SHORE PARK AND FOOTBATH
“Sakurajima” Yogan Nagisa Park is on the shore, an eight-minute walk from Sakurajima Port. There is a 100-m long footbath, one of the longest in Japan, fed by a natural hot spring from 1,000 m underground in the park. The terra-cotta-colored water contains iron. The perfect spot for a relaxing footbath while viewing Kinko Bay in front and the Sakurajima in the background?
SIGHTS
- Sengan-en Garden
- The Museum Birthplace of the Meiji Restoration
- Mount Shiroyama Castle
- Kagoshima City Aquarium
- Yunohira Observation Deck
Today’s Excursion – Landscapes of Kagoshima
Sakurajima and Arimura Point
We went to the Kagoshima Ferry Port and rode a ferry to Sakurajima. We drove to Arimura Point and visited the Arimura Observatory for a spectacular view of Mt. Sakura, which rises over 1,000 feet above the waters of Kagoshima Bay. The volcano has had over 30 significant eruptions in recorded history and is still experiencing minor eruptions almost daily.
Iso Gardens and La Maison Goten
The 17th-century Iso Gardens, or ‘Senganen,’ has exquisite gardens. The gardens feature beautiful flowers, rock pools, small bridges, and shrines and offer splendid vistas of the sea, the Sakurajima Volcano, and the city of Kagoshima. An interior visit was also made to La Maison “GOTEN” was once used as the principal residence of the head of the Shimadzu family and as a guest house to which domestic and foreign dignitaries were invited. The beautiful decorations inside the residence, the living room where the garden is most attractive, and the audience room highlight this house.
The Shimadzu watched over the land and people of Kagoshima for over 700 years, from the Kamakura period (1185-1333) until the end of the Edo period (1603-1868). In its 32nd generation, the Shimadzu family is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous warrior clans.
We had a great send-off from a Japanese women’s drum group.
Check out their precision and in this video clip, using their CORE stomach muscles to deliver an outstanding performance.
Pre-Dinner Showtime!
Female Vocalist Christine Andreas “Paris To Broadway”
Be transported to Paris and the streets of Pigalle that gave the world Edith Piaf, then Trans-Atlantic to the glittering lights of Manhattan and on to the Broadway stages that this performer knows so well!
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant
Flaky Crab Meat · White Fish · Eggs · Flour · Mayonnaise · Mustard · Iced Vegetable Salad · Sweet Chili · Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Crunchy Garden Greens · Diced Turkey · Ham · Salami · Boiled Egg · Cheddar Cheese · Swiss Cheese · Tomatoes · Red Onion · Cucumber · Black Olives · Mandarin Segments · Creamy Mandarin Dressing
Deep-fried Shrimps with Sesame and Cucumber Salad
Homemade Seafood Nage · Clams · Prawns · Scallops · Lemon Sole · Saffron · Double Cream
Teppan-grilled Marinated Rib Eye Slice · Mushrooms · Asian Vegetables
Sata Andagi
French-style Beef · Red Wine · Mushroom · Glazed Onion · Celery · Beef Stock · Mash Potatoes · Bacon · Flour
Pea Puree · Shrimp Risotto · Lemon Butter Sauce · Chives
Check out today’s Chronicle.