Shunpiking with Ray

CROSSING CONTINUES ON QM2 – 31 May and 1 June

Posted on June 1, 2012 by Ray Boas

I am going to do something a tad different with this post, and following a few comments I will list what I did each day, and then give you a slideshow of some images around the ship – it is grand!

The Grand Court

But I have so many little notes of things to share, and with the IPOD/IPAD courses I realized how easy it is to make notes. At dinner we sit in the same group, and our two hour dinners are great fun with great conversation, but at lunch time I have been able to sit with different people each day. Lunches in the Britannia Restaurant (I avoid the cafeteria buffet restaurants – they are nice, but that is not why you are on a cruise) have taken 1 ½ hours, and today I made so many notes on my IPOD for the first time (I carry it on trips now as a timepiece since I stopped wearing a watch decades ago – I don’t want to miss a train or boat). The fun thing I have found eating with different people is the sharing of experiences and the ideas I get for the future. For example a couple from London today told me that a few days before sailing they booked their trip, and the cost was about half price and included air to NYC. They arrived in time to catch a bus to the pier to sail with us. But they could have come days earlier depending upon flights. Yes, I have the website, and will watch it. They also told me that often they will take the Euro Star train from London to Paris for lunch, and then return in the evening. I can’t wait to do that.

My first note I forget to tell you that my bathroom aboard QM2 is larger than my roomette on The Canadian train that I spent four days and three nights on last August. I also wanted to say that travelling on this ship with formal and semi-formal attire for dinner makes for a cruise that is not a “party boat” atmosphere that so many cruises to nowhere are. This is what makes this special and so much like things were in the 1950s, an almost lost elegance. Well, as John Tesh says, you want to buy experiences and memories, and that is what last year’s train trip was and this cruise now is. My advice today is to keep this in mind, and also that “it is alright to do nothing.” Cathy always enjoyed Dove chocolates with sayings inside the wrapper. What I just quoted was inside the first one I opened after I lost her.

Sorting though the detailed itinerary of activities this is what I did on Thursday: at 10 I attended a lecture on the architecture of St. Petersburg; at 11 Nicholas Owen, ITN’s Royal Correspondent from 1994 to 2000, lectured on “Life with the Royals.” In the world’s only floating planetarium I saw “Search for Life” at 2:30, and at 3 PM listened again to Bill Miller (Mr. Ocean Liner) talk about “Maritime Royalty: The Cunard Queens.” His lectures are fantastic and I will pick up some of his books. From 4 to about 5:15 was the course “Using your IPAD” and I am going to become dangerous with my Apple equipment (David and Mari, you were right!!!). I skipped going to the 3-D move “Adventures of Tin Tin,” but after our fun two hour dinner sat in on the Royal Cunard Singers & Dancers show Viva Italia. Time then to turn in and advance the clock one hour (now a nightly event).

Friday June 1^st started with, yes another Apple seminar on Airplay, Apple TV and iCloud. At 11:15 Bill Miller’s lecture was “Getting There was Half the Fun: The Last Atlantic Liners.” After lunch at 2:15 the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art presented their version of The Canterbury Tales. Later at dinner I learned that in London they have wonderful shows for about 8 pounds – a fraction of a London Theatre ticket – now on my list when I get back from lunch in Paris. Would you believe at 4 I attended “iPads and the tablet computing revolution: Get Creative!” Then before dinner it was “Showtime: David Copperfield.” Not the illusionist, but ‘Unusualist’ an entertainer direct from the UK and very funny and clever.

I did have some time in between these activities to take some images to share with you below. And I have also started to follow the history displays around the ship and also picked up the audio tour to fill in more of the details.

So, hopefully I can get connected and update you. Let me know if you want me to share with you the last minute cruise specials I find, and I was also told about bargains with “repositioning cruises” when ships are moved from one seasonal market to another. Too much fun, bye, yours, RAY

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Posted in 2012-c - Queen Mary 2 & Northern Ireland - (May) | 5 Comments

ON THE QUEEN MARY 2 – 29 and 30 May 2012

Posted on May 31, 2012 by Ray Boas

It is time to start sharing my Trans-Atlantic crossing, but having completed my first 24 hours at sea I believe it may be hard to tell you all that happens on the Queen Mary 2 (the only remaining ocean liner with regularly scheduled crossings) – there is just so much to do, and I have been running and exploring all day. As usual I will be preparing my posts offline, and unfortunately my first attempt to get on-line Wednesday evening via satellite did not work. I have been told, however, that there have been satellite problems all day, but everything worked perfectly on the last voyage. Hope I get to use the 240 minutes time that I bought (since you are curious, a $90 package).

Looking back at NYC from the Starboard Side of QM2

I left Bellows Falls by Amtrak train shortly after noon on Monday for a 6 ½ hour trip to NYC’s Penn Station where my son Gary met me at the station. We then took the 7:11 NJ Transit train to my daughter Julie’s house for the evening. The kids were already asleep, but we were all up by 6 AM and I had some time to play with Nikhil and Devi before he went to playschool and she to a music class. About one on Tuesday Gary drove me back to the city, crossing Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge, and then to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. It was hot, traffic heavy, but an uneventful and easy trip. Check-in at the terminal was smooth and before I knew it I was in my stateroom, unpacked and off exploring after a bit of lunch. Sailing time was shortly after 5 PM, and heading out of New York harbor is something that must be experienced.

The lecturer on ships gave some commentary as to how the docks have changed with the loss of cargo ships and cruise liners. I took many pictures and panoramas, but do not really like any of them (too postcardy). What is impressive is finally passing under the Verazanno Narrows Bridge with 14 feet to spare. Topside was packed with everyone

Passing under the Verazanno Narrows Bridge

enjoying the views. The first time I passed under the bridge I was aboard the USS SULLIVANS DD-538 and no one was allowed topside because rivets could still fall during the final stages of construction in 1964. Since then, this is my 5th trip under the bridge without that precaution.

(Continued on Thursday 31 May) Once at sea I toured more, and went to the welcome aboard show in the theater prior to changing for dinner. I choose the late seating at 8:30 to allow for a longer day. I joined my table for eight which includes three women (two from the UK and one from Michigan); an Emory professor who due to an inner ear problem cannot fly; a Connecticut attorney who likes the quiet time to work (both of these gentlemen’s spouses will fly over to join them); and a couple from Northern Ireland. You know the world is getting smaller as this couple lives in the town outside Belfast where I will spend three nights, and his mother lives in Portrush on the Antrim Coast where I will spend 2 nights. It is a nice dinner group, but following conversation I headed back to my stateroom after a long day. Wednesday’s program was there and it takes a long time to sort through the activities. One difficulty is an overlap of times, at least for my interests (although in chatting with another passenger she noted the same concern). Was I ever surprised to find computer classes on board (essentially for Apple products and Adobe Photoshop Elements). At the last minute I packed my new IPAD with my IPOD Touch and laptop in my bag. “But, Ray,” I thought to myself, “you don’t know how to use it, so why take it!” But then I remembered when David questioned me on the silliness of not taking my TracFon charger last year to Ireland when I discovered the phone had been bumped and turned on and ran down. “It is so light,” he said, “just take it.” So, yes besides all my chargers (and adapters) the IPAD is with me, and Thursday I am taking “Using an IPAD: learn how to use your IPAD effectively.”

My Wednesday activities were as follows: An Introduction to the ship’s internet system; lecture – FLOATING PALACES: THE GREAT ATLANTIC LINERS; Overview of Photoshop Elements (I have used it for years, got some hints and over the fright of trying things – I will pass on the next three $30 courses – will now pursue my own manuals); IPOD, IPADS and IPHONES – an introduction (more good hints). Then it was almost time to get ready for the first formal evening proceeded by the Captain’s Cocktail Party, and followed by a formal ball. There were two lines for the party, and I choose the line to meet the captain, and as you then entered the ballroom wait staff was lined up with trays of drinks to select. Many folks thought that in uniform I was an officer aboard the ship, but others did know I was US Navy. At the party I talked with several nice couples, and at the conclusion as I was heading for dinner another gentleman stopped me to thank me for my service – always nice. He introduced himself, gave me his card, and we had fun talking. He is Nelson Riddle’s son, Christopher, who lives about 50 minutes from me in Vermont, and he has enjoyed trans Atlantic crossings for decades. He told me to email him.

After a lovely dinner with my table mates I stopped and took a look at the formal ball before retiring to review Thursdays’ activity options and setting my clock ahead one hour for a time change.

Even though Thursday is done except for another formal dinner, at this point I am going to end writing to you and post this blog (I like to keep my posts to 1,000 words). My next post I want to share some images around the ship which gives me an art deco feel, which is probably intentional from the hay day of the great ocean liners. I will also let you know what I did as this unique adventure continues. Thank you for joining me, as always, yours, RAY

PS – at 8:30 your time we will be at a point about 30 miles south of where the Titantic lies.

And, since I have often showed you “out my window” I have an interior room, but here it is

Posted in 2012-c - Queen Mary 2 & Northern Ireland - (May) | 10 Comments

May 26, 2012 – HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Posted on May 26, 2012 by Ray Boas

I am so out of practice writing to you here. My last “blog post” was 7 April from Cortona, Italy. As you may recall my computer was hacked in Pompeii and I never was able to post Mari’s brother’s wedding and my sojourn to Herculeum, Pompeii, the Isle of Capris, and the Amalfi Coast. I have notes and images, but have been too busy back in Walpole to write up those experiences, but I will. Since my return, until two weeks ago, my time was spent with The Walpole Players’ production of THE DINING ROOM, and writing several articles for our newsletter, THE WALPOLE CLARION. But now I leave in a few days – FOR REAL – on the Queen Mary 2, crossing the Atlantic and then flying to Ireland to explore Northern Ireland.

I told you about this trip, in a clever way, back on January 8^th, never meaning to deceive, but wanting to entertain and educate you, BUT now you will join me on this trip. It was in a Road Scholar booklet (I devour them when they arrive) that I first spotted THE STORY OF THE TITANIC: 100 YEARS LATER – 12 nights including crossing the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 2 and then 4 nights in Belfast, Ireland. I was intrigued, but in calling and learning the “single supplement” cost the trip was prohibitive at close to $6,000. But I love researching trips. I talked with Cunard Lines and found that the least cost room, even with their single supplement, was a small fraction of the Road Scholar program price, and feeling that the time the program included in Northern Ireland insufficient I knew that based upon my experience in Ireland last year that I could do much better planning on my own. That is when I wrote my blog that you thought was real.

The end of January I was visiting David and his family, and they asked if I would stay with Alex while they were in China the end of May if they went to a conference. “Sure,” I said. But then later than night I got an email from Cunard with a “sale” on the sailing date I was thinking about. “Hey, David and Mari, we need to make a decision!” They decided to skip China, and the next day I called Cunard to book the passage, only to find out that with the “sale” the “single supplement” is 100%. WOW, but I still saved, even though now paying for two. At least the “sale” spurred me to go ahead and book. Sorry, someone missed out on a “free” trip. And to be truthful, with all the trips I have researched I am still getting a bargain on the Queen Mary 2 for 7 days.

So, I am all set to cross the Atlantic. But then comes Italy, and the play, and it is May before I know it, and I am arriving in England with no plans to come home. “Time to work on this,” Ray says to himself. So the beginning of May I call Aer Lingus and buy a ticket from London to Dublin, and then from Dublin to Boston. No deals when you are booking a one-way ticket, but I am still ahead of the game. I asked about including a rental car with my Aer Lingus reservation since I had a great package last year with air and a car, but without a round trip “vacation package” the car became too expensive through Aer Lingus. But I had my rental contract from last year and called the US representative of Dan Dooley Car Rentals and they could not have been nicer giving me a great deal and discount for a car for a week.

I had spent a great deal of time reading the Northern Ireland portion of my Rick Steves’ guide to Ireland, and I had the 4 day itinerary of the Road Scholar trip as a starting point for internet research (gee, maybe I should organize trips for others?). And before I knew it I outlined six full days of activities (you know I “run hard”). Then I started looking for B&Bs, and (thanks to the Rick Steves’ guide) found Pauline in Bangor, about 30 minutes east of Belfast. She even called me a few times and outlined just how I should tackle Belfast and the Titantic sights, and she even booked me on a tour with a great-grand-daughter of a crew member, and secured a ticket for me for the new Titanic exhibit, which she said is booked weeks ahead – I never would have known. So, when I arrive in Dublin I will head up to Northern Ireland by car and the first night I have no reservation not knowing how far I will get. Then I have two nights in Portrush on the Antrium Coast (which is breathtaking) and will get into Derry (Londonderry) one day. I cannot wait to share all the sights with you from that area. Leaving there I will get to Pauline’s B&B where I will stay 3 nights and spend two full days in Belfast before heading back to Boston. Bottom line – my good planning gives me the Queen Mary 2, and almost twice as much time in Northern Ireland than the Road Scholar trip for about half the price. Darn I am good!!!

So, that is the genesis of this next trip, and with luck and internet connection you will next pass the Statue of Liberty with me. I have yet to pack, but have packed and repacked many times on paper (it is getting to be “old hat”). Tomorrow I will watch the Indy 500 (always a tradition of Cathy’s) and putter at packing. Have a nice holiday weekend, and I will be “blogging” again very soon. Yours, RAY

Posted in 2012-c - Queen Mary 2 & Northern Ireland - (May) | 4 Comments

HAPPY EASTER FROM CORTONA – 7 April 2012

Posted on April 7, 2012 by Ray Boas

Hi all,

As some of you may know, the first night I was in Pompei while I was doing research on the Sanctuary there, on clicking to the link to the English translation it ended up that site was affected and set up to attack computers — my laptop is inoperable at the moment, hopefully to be fixed. So, I have notes and images (hopefully not an infected SD card) to share for 2-6 April which includes my trip to Pompei, Herculeaum, Pompeii itself (two “i”s for site, and one for the city); Wednesday on Capris, Thursday to Positano and Sorrento, and my return to Cortona yesterday for the Procession in town. Actually, I ran so hard that getting back to my B&B at 9PM two nights and 11PM another I had no time to write to you.

I am working on Mari’s laptop at the moment trying to learn the Apple operating system. David and Mari know Apple is the best, and hope to sway me over – and I am getting there. In the process I am trying to learn IPhoto on her machine so I can share a few images of last evening’s two hour procession around down with you for Easter. Actually starting to like it very much.

Church where the Procession began

Following diner at 8 we headed to the square before nine, and then to one of the many small churches just out side one of the gates. In processions statues of Jesus are paraded, statues that are centuries old, museum pieces, but utilitarian and used still for their original purpose – you may know that I believe in using wonderful old things. Upon entering the gate more and more people began to fall in for the climb up and around the town. Cortona’s narrow medieval streets are all uphill, yes all uphill and a very few down. We passed many small churches and chapels whose doorways were open that I had not noticed previously. Along the way the priest was leading prayer and readers where reading the Stations of the Cross, often stopping at one of the open churches. Upon arriving back on the main street (the only level street in town where all the shops are located). I

Entering through one of the Town's gate

could see off in the distance more statues, and when we arrived in the square there they were all in place on temporary platforms having been paraded held up on massive poles by eight men on each side.

Lined up in the square for the service

These three statues I saw previously in display in the Church of San Francesco (Saint Francis). I would provide links, but I am not doing any “Googling” on the web on Mari’s computer just in case; however, the kids are telling me that Apple’s security and operating system is much better than Microsoft. They almost have me hooked.

Usually I work a long time in Word preparing my blog posts and then copy/paste to WordPress, but am entering this one directly so I can share these images of Easter in Italy, and wish you a HAPPY EASTER. I will attend Mass at Midnight tonight, tomorrow is Easter Dinner and pack for early departure on Monday home. A grand trip, and you will relive it with me in the weeks to come as I will write about each day, and the wedding and its images. Also, my trip email list is “locked” in my laptop, but I think I remembered everyone to add to my notification email, if not my apologies, and please do share. So that is it for now, Italy 2012 — God Bless, as always, RAY

Posted in 2012-b - Italy - (April) | Tagged Cortona, Easter Procession | 2 Comments

Computer hacked April 2

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Ray Boas

End of posts

Posted in 2012-b - Italy - (April) | 1 Comment

FROM CORTONA, ITALY – 30 MARCH 2012

Posted on March 30, 2012 by Ray Boas

Cortona Town Square

Hi all, it has been so long since I have written here I feel kind of rusty, so ramble here I come. Actually I guess I would call my sharing with you here more of a folksy writing as compared to the articles I wrote for the April issue of the WALPOLE CLARION, but isn’t that what SHUNPIKING WITH RAY is about, right?

Back in February I mentioned I was heading to Italy with David’s family for Mari’s brother’s wedding – well we are here. We left Wednesday night from Logan on Swiss Air for Zurich to then catch the smaller plane to Florence, with the plan on this trip to then catch the train to Cortona. If you remember STUCK IN ZURICH from last July you may recall that winds at the airport in Florence wreak havoc with the schedules. I have now had three attempted experiences in or out of Florence’s airport, of which only one worked. Yes, on our approach the winds kicked up, actually we learned it was a tail wind which made the air speed too great to land on the short runway, and just as we were about to touch down the pilot pulled up aborting the landing. I was on the left side of the plane which became the right side by the window to get a wonderful aerial view of Florence enabling me to spot all the sights I saw last July. Last year following our cancelled outbound flight we were bused to Bologna to catch our outbound flight, but this time we were diverted to Pisa on the coast where we were told that buses would eventually show up to take the passengers for the hour ride back to the Florence airport. We would have to wait for the bus back to the airport in Florence, and then catch the bus (as planned) to get to the train station in Florence. At the Pisa baggage claim there was a large permanent sign explaining to diverted Florence passengers what to do – obviously something that happens often. Instead, since there is a train station in the Pisa airport, we gathered our bags and rushed to see when the next train left. As fortune would have it, we had 5 minutes – but no tickets. The ticket machine was broken and if we went back into the air terminal to buy tickets we would have missed the train. We boarded, knowing that occasionally you can buy a ticket on the train for a small extra fee.

Now is the time for me to impart some Italian railway information. There are many ways to purchase your ticket. In Cortona tickets cannot be purchased at the station, but instead at any number of tobacco stores. Prior to boarding a train you validate your ticket in a machine so the conductor, when asking to see your ticket, knows when and where your journey began. But you seldom see a conductor, thus seldom asked; however, if asked to produce a ticket and you have none you are subject to a heavy fine. On three train trips last year I was only asked to show my ticket once, and that was at the last stop before I got off the train returning from Florence. Shortly after the train departed the airport at Pisa the conductor arrived and Mari explained our situation – he was not pleased and excitedly was talking fines upon his return. About 10 minutes from Florence he returned and took Mari and another passenger into the vestibule. When she returned she said, “hurry and get the bags off the racks and into the vestibule to be the first to depart because the conductor said our train to Cortona leaves 12 minutes after we arrive,” and she concluded, “our trip from Pisa is free.” We quickly got to the train headed for Rome stopping at Cortona, ironically the same track and time that I travelled last year. We got all our luggage stowed in a vestibule, and Mari went to find the conductor to explain our lack of tickets. Soon she returned saying he would come collect our fares without penalty. And, if you have not assumed so already, he never did return prior to our stop. So, no fares for five from Pisa to Cortona, but I do not recommend this. My ticket to Naples and return will be purchased at the tobacconist before I get to the station on Monday.

Arriving in Cortona at 5:30 it felt as though it was just yesterday we were here. Thursday evening we settled in, and at 7 PM met Mari’s friends at her college roommate’s restaurant. After dinner we all finally started to wind down and one by one turned in. Today, Friday, we headed to a small village near Arrezo with a wonderful fashion shop – Mari needed a jacket and David a shirt for the wedding tomorrow. Mari commented how Cathy would have loved the designer fashions there, particularly since the prices are about a third as in the states. Many options remained open for the afternoon, but we ended taking a hike. As you know, “all roads

STRADA BASOLATA - Paved Road

lead to Rome.” Mari’s Dad drove us way, way up in the mountains on a lonely road past Frances Mayes’ little known second villa which she purchased to escape the tourists searching for Bramasole, where he dropped us off so we could hike down the Strada Basolata (paved road) built by the Romans and still surviving. What a thrill, and what views. Our overall descent was 1200 feet and just over 3 miles (per GPS calculations). You just cannot escape the breadth of history in Italy, it is so humbling.

Heading down Cortona's Roman Road

Close back to town we overlooked the church where the wedding will be tomorrow at 3:30, and Saturday will be spent in final preparations. But I will fill you in on that probably on Monday night when I am settled in Pompeii. So, for now, good night. Yours, RAY

Looking down at the Church from the road just above Mari's parent's home.

Good night from Cortona

Posted in 2012-b - Italy - (April) | Tagged Bramasole, Cortona | 6 Comments

LONG OVERDUE POST – 28 FEBRUARY 2012

Posted on February 28, 2012 by Ray Boas

I last wrote to you here on the 25^th of January, and February is almost done I have not had a post so thought I would catch you up to date.

Following my return from Yellowstone, I was busy in rehearsals with The River Theater Company in Charlestown, NH for a murder mystery dinner theater that was performed on 17 and 18 February. MURDER STAGE RIGHT, OR WHO KILLED HAMLET was a great deal of fun, in fact, we staged the play here in Walpole in 2009. I played Hamlet (as I did in 2009), yes I was killed off, but that enabled me to play a second part – the cop – at the end of the play. Too much fun, and last year I was also fortunate enough to play the cop in River Theater’s third annual mystery dinner. I find it is enjoyable to do the “same things each year” and look forward to joining next year in some capacity.

We are now getting started with our spring Walpole Players production that will be held the first two weekends in May, and I will fill you in with more details as they develop. Our sixth issue of THE WALPOLE CLARION is about to go to press, and it has been well received. And, since I just don’t have enough to do (ha, ha !!!) I am running for Town Treasurer in Walpole, with election day, Tuesday, March 13^th. For a number of reasons I became concerned about the performance of the incumbent, did some research, and found that independent auditors have found repeated problems. So, how do you fix a problem? You run for the position that you are concerned about, and most qualified to fill. So, if a Walpole voter please vote for me in two weeks, and if you are not registered here you have two weeks to move, get an address, and come in on election day, register, and vote for RAY BOAS for WALPOLE TOWN TREASURER – if a Walpole voter please click on the previous link, and read at least the first paragraph. Yes I will report the outcome.

This past weekend I visited my daughter, Julie, and her family in Northern New Jersey, about a five hour drive away taking the circuitous route around NYC. Actually I was shunpiking along the way avoiding the traffic spots and taking back roads essentially cutting over to the Hudson River. I arrived before 5 PM on Friday, and left Monday at 9 AM when Julie was taking Nikhil (almost 4) to school. It was just a great relaxing weekend “at home with the grandkids.” On Saturday we spent all afternoon at The New Jersey’s Children’s

Devi - almost two - on a Merry-Go-Round horse

Museum in Paramus. Twenty years old, simply done, but I was impressed with the “hand-on” exhibits and their easy learning messages. Devi really enjoyed pushing the doorbell on the cut-away house which showed everyone the behind the walls components of the structure. There were various learning exhibits including a grocery store and diner. The almost four hours passed before I knew it. Shortly after we got home number two son, Gary, arrived and a fun evening followed dinner. After the kids went to bed, they introduced me to Downton Abbey – I am now “hooked.” On Sunday, shortly after 11 AM, Gary’s girlfriend, Molly, arrived on the train, and Gary and I walked to the station to meet her. Brunch, a walk around town, tasty dinner (being careful of Dave’s spicy chicken – the non-spicy done by Julie was everyone’s choice) and the day was over before I knew it. Gary and Molly headed back to the

Nikhil - almost four - working on the construction exhibit

city, the kid’s turned in, and then we watched some of the Oscars before calling it quits. Have you ever noticed how a grand time is over almost as soon as it starts?

On Monday I joined Julie and Nikhil and Devi shortly after 7 AM (the kids wake up about 6:15) and I enjoyed the kids until it was time for Julie to drive Nikhil to school. My plan then was to cross back across the Hudson River at Newburgh and head up Route 9 to Hyde Park and Rhinebeck. Cathy and I used to explore this area and scout books and antiques when the shop was in Connecticut, and it has been well over ten years since I was in the area, an area we enjoyed. I wanted to stop at FDR’s home and tour it ($14, but free with my National Parks “Senior Pass” – I know I don’t

FDR's Springwood - Small but Impressive

look it, but proudly take the discounts!!!). Our guide had some wonderful insights and I highly recommend a visit, and I remember my Dad raving about his and Shirley’s visit years ago. There were 5 of us (right time of year to go) on the tour and it is interesting to learn the Roosevelt family history and learn why the home is there. You see the room with the actual furniture and bed where FDR was born, and everything is just as it was when he was still

Looking at the entrance from outside the window where the Manhattan Project was "hatched"

alive. The family gave the house to the American people in 1943, and in 1945 the family relinquished all rights to Springwood.

I continued up NY Route 9 and stopped in a few antique shops we used to visit – but sadly no purchases this trip. This area of the Hudson River Valley has a number of historical sites, and as I was having lunch in Rhinebeck I was reading travel literature I collected along the way (a hobby and passion) and realized that since I was only a tad over an hour away from The Red Lion Inn that it will be easy to get back to exploring this area while staying at the Inn. When I now stay at The Red Lion Inn it is for two nights thus giving myself a full day in between to play and explore – so now I have Hudson River destinations for a couple visits this year.

“So, Ray,” you ask, “what is the next big trip?” Last year I started my serious travel in May spending a week in Ireland. What followed was over 60 nights slept not in my own bed while travelling. And this year, I started with Yellowstone which was 8 nights and counting. Mari called a few weeks ago and said, “Ray we are not going to Italy this year in July.” That is alright I thought to myself, and she continued, “because my brother is getting married the end of March. Would you like to join us, and it is the perfect time of year for you to visit Pompeii.” Two days later all of our tickets were purchased. Without trying to fool you all, I outlined my virtual trans-Atlantic crossing on the Queen Mary, but I have now bought that ticket for real too. I got an email with a discount for the voyage I wanted, but sadly at the discounted rate the single supplement is 100%. I still saved a tad, but the main thing is it motivated me to make the purchase, and once I really arrive in Southampton I will head to Northern Ireland and spend a week there. “On the list” for several years has been a trip to the Isle of Shoals off Portsmouth, NH where there is an old Victorian retreat and hotel with lots to explore. Recently overnight stays have been opened to the public for “private retreats” but the other day in a Road Scholar booklet I saw a digital photography course on the islands for a week. I booked it for late summer. So, it is not even May, and I have planned travels for over 30 nights away, and should be able to surpass last year’s travel record with more fun journeys like another train trip or two including exploring Glacier National Park.

Well, all for now. I am sure something will come up in the next couple weeks before I head back to Italy. Thanks for reading through, yours, RAY

Posted in Day (or maybe two) Trips | 3 Comments

YELLOWSTONE WRAP-UP – Home 23 January 2012

Posted on January 25, 2012 by Ray Boas

I arrived home Monday morning, the 23^rd, after walking my grandson Alex to school in Massachusetts. There was freezing rain, and Monday’s rehearsal for MURDER STAGE RIGHT was cancelled. I face so many things I want to do, to read, to play with, but first I want to conclude this most phenomenal trip that has opened my eyes to “see the USA” not necessarily in a Chevrolet. (does that phrase date me?)

The Friday morning discussion session was cut short when the shuttle driver arrived advising that the two hour trip from Bozeman took three hours due to road conditions. We had our own rental car, but the others decided to leave to make sure to make plane connections. Scott, Betty, Rich and I stay and chatted with Lee, the instructor, for awhile, and then packed. We toured West Yellowstone a bit more, and Betty and I went into the

Inside this fabulous original train car

Holiday Inn to view the original 1903 rail car from the Oregon Short Line, so named because it was the shortest distance between Oregon and Wyoming, which is housed inside. This mini museum shows how people traveled on railroads and has all original furniture and appointments. It is fabulous. We then headed back down the one road to Bozeman to our B&B – the Voss Inn. Built in 1883 (Bozeman was first settled in 1864 and incorporated in 1883) the B&B was exceptional. Recent visitors have included Steven Seagal, Al Gore, and Buzz Aldrin. Bruce and Frankie do an exceptional job, and Bruce’s breakfasts

The Voss Inn at night

surpassed gourmet. On our last day there he enjoyed relating tales of both Seagal’s and Aldrin’s visits after Rich asked about the signed photos on the wall.

On Friday late afternoon once we checked in we walked the three blocks to the Main Street of Bozeman. How impressive the town is, particularly the main street which has wonderful buildings dating to the late 19^th century and a fine collection of buildings with Art Deco facades. Nothing has been ruined in this town which is the 4^th largest city/town in Montana with about 37,000 residents, about a third larger than my neighboring Keene. And the shops’ windows are absolutely “eye candy” with unique hand-crafted gifts, fashions, art galleries

Typical Bozeman windowfront

and night spots and restaurants. Yes it helps to have a college in town, but I feel Bozeman deserves another visit someday. That evening we decided to have dinner at Ted’s Montana Grill , yes founded by Ted Turner. He has 100s of thousands of acres throughout the West, and raises Bison. Betty and I enjoyed the Bison meatloaf, and Rich had a Bison steak – Scott for some reason only had a burger. It was a busy place, and at least we can say that we were there. We returned to the Voss Inn and enjoyed conversation in the parlor.

Saturday at breakfast we had a fun time with a family from California that arrived too late to drive to their condo in Big Sky. That is one of the joys of B&Bs – sharing with total strangers who also enjoy the ambience and uniqueness of the experience. After breakfast the plan was to head to Bohart Ranch Cross Country Ski Center 16 miles out of town in the mountains. All night a voice kept telling me not to ski because it was going to be too fast and dangerous, and I had had a wonderful time without injury – so be safe! I debated back and forth, but choose not to ski, but journeyed up the mountain with book in hand while the others enjoyed skiing. Well, I never got to a single page because in moments Betty returned exclaiming, “too fast and scary!” We sat down to talk, and in moments saw Scott and Rich returning. Ends up they too found it fast, and dangerous with inclines more than we have experienced in New England, and in addition you could not see what was around the corners other than steep drop offs. They turned in their rented skis and we headed back to town. I had read about the Gallatin County Historical Society Pioneer Museum in the old county jail built in 1911. WOW – I love museums, and this one is exceptional, and we all enjoyed it (so important when travelling with others to have the same interests). Besides retaining some of the original jail features with some cells, solitary confinement

Through the jailor's Peekhole into a cell.

(called Siberia) and the gallows (only used once) the historical exhibits on the development of the area and early exploration are noteworthy. So much so that I came out convinced that I will read more about Montana and will visit again this year. Just as I said the Bozeman airport is worth the visit, go to this museum too for double enjoyment of the trip – BUT, then add our dinner experience Saturday night.

Cathy and I always asked our B&B hosts, “where would you have dinner.” Well, Frankie gave me choice one and two – Looie’s Down Under or John Bozeman’s Bistro, and she had old menus there. I took a look and there was no question – Looie’s was my choice, and when I shared that with the others they agreed. We arrived and were seated at 6:30, and our treat concluded three hours later. A third reason to visit Bozeman we all agreed.

My Halibut - OUTSTANDING

Frankie had recommended Halibut, and there was a Halibut special that Betty and I both had. Between appetizers, salad, and our main course only Rich ventured forward with desert – Baked Alaska, and here he is looking like a King as it was ceremoniously presented to him.

King Rich and his Baked Alaska

Just too much fun. The four of agreed the last several days that everything, absolutely everything went just perfectly with this trip and experience, and we were all sad to see it

Breakfast our last day at the Voss Inn. Rich and me, seated Scott and Betty

end. Following breakfast on Sunday we walked downtown again because I saw a book on Glacier Park in the window of the news stand that I wanted to get. I actually bought 3 books as a result, not to mention 4 or 5 more at the museum on Saturday – a nice and safe addiction to have. It was then time to head to the airport for our flight.

BOZEMAN Panorama - Town 6 miles behind us, airport 3 miles ahead. Click on image for full effect, but please come back.

I am almost at a loss as to what else to share. I can tell you that I will begin working on my train trip to Glacier Park in Montana because it is such as fabulous area. Scott is planning to retire later this year and he and Betty too cannot wait to head to Montana in their Airstream. I already have an invitation to fly out and join them (I said I would sleep under the trailer to not be in the way). Some other “lessons learned”: with the airlines charging for checked luggage what people carry on has caused a problem as I have never had to put something under the seat in front of me before with the overhead areas full; second, don’t get sidetracked because you may leave your book on the plane (THE LONGEST NIGHT – THE BOMBING OF LONDON, MAY 10, 1941) but I will find another copy. I spend time thinking (happens when no one to talk to), and on the flight home I realized that my life is now in equal thirds: first growing up and schooling; then my Navy career; and last bookseller following retirement from the Navy. So, what happens next when I divide my time into fourths and then fifths? I do know it will be travel for awhile, so continue to read as I cross the Atlantic, get to Northern Ireland, cross the US by train and get to Glacier National Park; and I still need Africa and South America to have been on all seven continents. Oh, too much fun. Catch you soon, thanks for travelling with me, as always, yours, RAY

Posted in 2012-a - Winter in Yellowstone - (Jan) | 2 Comments

WINTER IN YELLOWSTONE CONTINUES – 18 and 19 January 2012

Posted on January 20, 2012 by Ray Boas

As I have fallen asleep each night I have thought of “fast facts” that I should have mentioned. Our afternoon of snow shoeing was in 10 degree weather, and while travelling in “Kitty” it was 6 degrees outside. However the wind was really blowing down the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone so the wind chill was really something, but I only felt it on my exposed hand while taking the panorama shot. Yes, I had worried too much about being cold. The proper layering of a wicking layer (the right long underwear to get moisture away from your body), an insulating layer of fleece and then an outer windproof layer does the trick. Of course, the inside of the outer layer is soaked when you take it off, but you are not affected. You may also have wondered about the water flowing in the rivers with little ice. Well, the thermal activity in the area of my shots is keeping the river waters in the 50s, and what I did not include were shots of the happy swans and ducks in both the Madison and Gibbon Rivers.

We awoke on Wednesday to long overdue snow for the area, and it has been fierce and unabated all day with howling winds causing amazing drifts. Something else I had failed to mention was the difference in the snow here as compared to home. In the East we usually have wet and heavy snows, but here it is relatively dry and the snow is a fine powder, thus with the wind we approach “white-out” conditions. In the morning Lee continued discussing the fascinating geology of the area and the various thermal features including hot pools, geysers, steam vents, mud pots, etc. and how they come about from the magnum of the earth. This reminds me of my touring similar areas in Iceland in November 2010 – another place that deserves a longer visit again very soon.

Following lunch we picked up cross country skis and went to an entrance in town to the

Yes, this is me on a very snowy XC-Ski afternoon

Gallatin National Forest. The snow by this time was really getting heavy. It was quite different skiing as compared to the groomed trails I have been on in VT and NH. We were skiing through ungroomed powdery snow, and as the 3 hours and 3 plus miles passed the snow we had to plow through got deeper and deeper. Done at 5 PM, dinner at 6 followed by some more discussion on geology and the animals of the park. The snow storm began to intensify and the winds picked up. I heard that there were up to 8 inches last evening, but with the winds it moved around and drifted at great deal.

Thursday, our last full day, started early since we had to be at the snowmobile place at 8AM to get fitted with suits and get instruction for our tour into the park to Old Faithful. If I have not mentioned it before, you cannot access the park at this time of year except by Snow Coach or Snowmobile. The snow and winds were so bad there was a question as to whether the West Entrance to the park would open or not, but fortunately it did open by about 9, and off we went for what ended up being a 65 mile excursion until 5 PM. We struck out towards Madison Junction were we turned south towards Old Faithful. I drove all day with a lady who chose not to drive. It was intense steering requiring attention at all times, and I think that as a passenger you can enjoy the scenery and nature more on a snowmobile.

All of a sudden strolling along the Madison River to our right in the snow was a coyote –

Coyote - just feet away without telephoto lens

not something you usually see. Following the Firehole River (supposedly named years past because of the thermal activity surrounding the river) we took a side route along the remote Firehole Canyon Drive with its views and waterfalls (oh, what a TR3A road!!!)

Firehole Falls

Instead of heading straight to Old Faithful and eating we opted to tour the Lower Geyser Basin and Fountain Paint Pot. Our guide, Michelle, told us to take our day packs and backpacks with our lunches because the ravens are very talented and can open zippers, Velcro, etc. to get food. We fooled them, but right on the controls of my machine one had pooped, probably in anger. Here you can see in an enjoyable walk (even in the winter)

Silex Spring - a beautiful blue

all the types of thermal activities: hot pools, geysers, steam vents and mud pots.

The Fountain Paint Pots

A fascinating place, and I encourage you to read more about it. And, before I forget, it was great not having crowds to view all that we saw, plus I do think that what we saw was easier to see on the white snow background even though it was overcast, and snowing all the time we were in the park.

Leaving this area we soon came upon a herd of Bison in the road, and the pictures will tell the story. We stopped, of course, to see where they were headed.

BISON AHEAD !!!

Our guide eventually said that we should continue on close together and keep on going. Nice plan, but the Bison did not cooperate and we had to stop while they charged at each other for awhile. Soon an opening occurred and we got past as they finally moved off into the field.

View from my snowmobile !!!

Arriving in the Old Faithful area we parked near a group of three yurts for people in the winter to have their lunches. We had just a short time to wait for Old Faithful, but all of a sudden the Beehive Geyser became active – a treat since it is not predictable as Old Faithful is. I figured that I had to give you an image of Old Faithful, so I went a tad further, and here is a 3 minute video that you can watch (but you do not have to watch it all). Remember it was overcast, terribly windy (you will hear the wind) but very few get to experience this in winter, and our guide said that in the summer with the crowds it is hard to see and hear, so enjoy – just click on the image and start the video.

Leaving the Old Faithful area it was going to be a straight run back in hopes of finding more wildlife, but little was to be seen. We did spend some time watching a Bison herd that we saw the other day with the Snow Coach, and just as we were leaving I remembered my IPodTouch with the panorama app – so quickly started shooting. Click on the image below for the full effect.

Panorama of Bison off in the fields - click on image for full effect, but do come back>

Well, this evening as I have been working with images and chatting with Rich, Scott and Betty we are just so thrilled with how smoothly and wonderfully these past few days have been. This has been a truly remarkable, unique and memorable trip. Tomorrow morning we will have a few more hours of discussion and then the 16 attendees head off on their own ways. We head back to Bozeman, and I may “blog” one more time. I feel as though I have not provided as much education on this trip as on others, but the pictures do speak volumes, and I am so pleased that I made this trip.

What ever you say -- no arguements !!!

Posted in 2012-a - Winter in Yellowstone - (Jan) | 4 Comments

SNOWSHOEING and SNOW COACHING in YELLOWSTONE – 16 & 17 JANUARY 2012

Posted on January 18, 2012 by Ray Boas

Often pictures speak volumes, so tonight I am mainly going to give you an idea in picture of the last two days. Monday morning we began with an ecology and geology lecture to get an idea and appreciation of the vast territory of Yellowstone National Park. Lee, who retired 5 years ago from the Forestry service, is our instructor. He had always wanted to teach, and is passionate about what he has learned and has a wonderful way to impart knowledge to us. In the afternoon we then snowshoed 5.5 miles out into the park and along the Madison River.

Snowshoeing along the Madison River

Good exercise, especially at 6,800 feet in elevation. This area of the park suffered fire in 1988 and the Lodge Pole Pines have begun to grow back, but since there is only about 60 days of growth time each year it is a long process. Along the walk we learned more about the trees, and the only sign of wildlife we saw was where elk had fed around some trees.

Today’s experience was something not many people do. There are about 3 million visitors to the park in the summer, and about 160,000 in the winter we learned from our guide, Mike Bryers, from the Aplen Guides when he began our tour in a 1956 Bombardier – “Kitty”. What a vintage way to tour the park.

Mike arrives in Kitty, a 1956 Bombardier, to pick us up.

Originally designed and built in the 1930s for the Canadian Army to move troops in Canada in case of war you will enjoy the complete history on the Yellowstone Alpen Guide website. Mike has spent his entire life in the area guiding folks in many different capacities and adventures and it was interesting to get his perspective on many park issues from a native’s viewpoint. He is also quite an artist, and you may wish to see his website for park related scenes.

Our 95 mile excursion (Rich tracks our routes using GPS) began at the West Entrance to the Park (where we are staying) to Madison and then to the Canyon area within the Caldera Boundary. Remember that Yellowstone is one of the world’s most active geothermal areas and the features of the terrain are the results of early volcanic action and lava flows. Mike pointed out the features formed as a result, some hot springs, steam holes and more. Our furthest point out was the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone along the Yellowstone River, and I tried my second panorama shot there (still need to learn how to use this software), so please for the full effect click on the image below, but do come back.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone - click on image for the full effect, but do come back.

Besides the vast scenery we were fortunate to see much wildlife and stop and see them in their habitat. Other than wolves, we pretty much saw what you would expect to see, and here are just a few of the shots I took:

: Obviously a BISON

Further down the road was this view of a waterfall that I want to share:

Breathtaking Waterfall

And of all the critters you would expect (or at least like to see) are a Bald Eagle and Elk. This elk was right alongside the river grazing.

I have so many more images, Betty takes wonderful and 100’s of images, Scott has a much longer telephoto lens than I have, and Rich has many toys to get great shots. Eventually we will share to create a top-notch album, but for now, Good Night from Yellowstone Park in Winter.