Sunny Cobh Afternoon
Let’s begin with yesterday… I didn’t post because we did nothing! The port was Guernsey. Not quite in the mood to tender to shore, we enjoyed a leisurely day. Not used to such a port intensive itinerary, it was nice to create our own “sea day”…. basically having the ship to ourselves! Starting with coffee, we watched a movie and then pulled out the Mexican Train. As you can see, hubby got himself a little “Dirty Monkey”.
We passed by the empty theater… usually filled to capacity for the twice nightly shows, today she was peaceful. We rarely go to shows. A couple of nights ago, we happened by just as one was starting and decided to settle in. A musical called, “Bravo”, it was pretty good. Then we came across a funny British comedian. That was also a good show. I think that’s more shows than we’ve done in five years!
Next, we walked through the art gallery. In my early days of cruising, I would attend the art auction just to get a free gift and a glass of champagne. It surprised me how many people actually bid on the art. Thinking about it, people have time to look at art while on vacation… so what better place!
Out the window, we got a view of Guernsey. Nice weather and an appealing harbor, it will be something we venture to visit next time. As for yesterday… the “lazies” got the best of us. This is the second largest island in the Channel Islands. Tourists flock to this area by air and by ferry. It seems to have some unique accommodations. The island markets itself as a place to unwind and rejuvinate.
Starting with walks up and down the colorful streets, we noticed the majority of our ship’s 3500 guests decided to visit the Blarney Stone or jumped on the train. Located right off the ship, in the harbor, is the Cobh train that goes directly into Cork.
Up a VERY steep hil… thought it was going to do me in… we headed toward the cathedral. In future photos, you will see that the St Colman’s Cathedral is the focal point of this town. Not in the same way as La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, but a very prominent architectural work.
Climbing up the steep rock steps, we were both out of breath! Last time we were here, it was raining so we kept our walking to a miniumum. We got close to the church but not all the way up to it. Catching hubby at a weak moment, I was able to snap a very quick selfie!
As we approached the front doors to the cathedral, we realized there was a funeral going on. That’s the second time we have crashed a service. Salisbury Cathedral, the friends and family were just leaving as we approached. This time, they were just beginning the memorial. Quickly, I took a snapshot so I could check it out later…
Formerly named Queenstown Cathedral, this single spire church is perched on the hill overlooking the harbor. Construction of this work of art began in 1868, but it wasn’t completed until 1919. The interesting fact I learned about St Colman’s is that the initial budget was 25,000 pounds. As the structure was being built, the plans changed and become more elaborate. By the time it was completed, this cathedral was the most expensive in Ireland! It ended up a cost of 235,000 pounds! Slightly over budget, wouldn’t you say?!?
From our perch on the hill, we were able to get the perfect view of our ship! Looking ever so large, you can see how it docks right in town! These are my favorite kinds of ports… easy accessibility. Rotterdam, San Francisco and Sydney are the same. You walkl right off the ship and you’re ready to explore!
Cars lined the narrow streets. Always looking the wrong way before crossing, it’s a wonder I’m still here! The opposite side of the road thing still confuses me and it’s been two weeks! The rock walls and full foliage were beautiful! In some areas, the pink flowers grew right out of the rock… this section is so thick, I tend to think it must be being cared for by someone who lives up higher. Love the color!
For the first time on this trip, our internet is lagging… there are a couple of colorful flowers I was planning on posting together, but at this point… it’s one photo at a time… Sorry to bore you, but since the actual purpose of this site is that I never lose my photos to a natural disaster again… I’ll just do what I have to do to save what I want to save! :-)
Next… a yard full of my wedding flowers! The Calla Lily is top of my favorites list! I was going to take a better photo but I got embarrassed when the owner of the flat walked out. She didn’t see me, it was just a coincidence she was leaving as I was stalking her yard!
Continuing on our way through town, we came upon this interesting building. Turns out, it is a Chinese Restaurant. A few of the crew members said they go there when in this port so I’m guessing it’s good. This was info I didn’t find out until after we got back on board.
In a familiar bar, I sent hubby up for a Guinness and an Irish Coffee. As I mentioned before, last visit was raining… so this bar was packed! This time, a couple of tourists and a couple of locals were hanging out. It’s an old school bar with lots of charm
Walking by the harbor, we noticed the stark difference between the boats moored and our ship in the background. This photo did everything for me… reflections… colors… I love the contrast!
Taking one last look back, we got another perspective of the cathedral. From the view through the park, we saw a little bit of the towns character… people enjoying the park on the water. I actually sat on the bench and read my book for awhile. The sun provided a warmth I wasn’t expecting so far north.
Reaching a stopping point in my book, I strolled across the grounds of the park and headed up the steps. They are kind of cool… imbeded on the face were handmade tiles. It reminded me of a tile my oldest son made in third grade and was used as part of Kamulani Playground before the grand opening… The tiles added a splash of color and character.
Not quite ready to return to the ship, I took a little extra time in port reading. Barry headed back to the ship. When I was ready to return, I sent a txt asking him to go out on the balcony. Up near the top, I took the shot and then circled the spot… now we know where our cabin is!
From the sixteenth floor of our ship, I snapped this shot looking back at where we had been during the day. Seeing the colorful buildings known as “deck of cards” and of course, the cathedral. So much charm!
Busses and trains all returned at the same time causing long lines. We had fun sitting on the balcony watching all of the activity. Shortly after this picture was taken, a small, local orchestra formed and played for the passengers. It was intended to be a sail away celebration but due to low tides, we would have a delayed departure…
One last look at the flats of Cobh… We actually looked in the real estate windows to see how much they cost. Actually, not too bad. A couple were in the 180,000 pound price and the majority were 250,000 pounds. We saw a business or two for sale, which we found intriguing… You never know!
