The day started cloudy as usual. As we began the bus ride, there was a little mist and then as we neared the Turaida Castle, the rain came in earnest. We began to wonder if the Good Weather Fairy that normally follows us around had perhaps succumbed to Covid! Not to worry - as our guide was getting our tickets to the castle, the rain let up and eventually stopped. I guess that it just took the Fairy a awhile to catch up with us.
The Turaida Castle sits across from the river (some river) from the castle we would visit later, the Sigulda Castle. These castles were built in the 1300's. Today, all that is left is some ruins and reconstructions. Of course, we headed to the tower to get a good look at the site and the surrounding area.
After poking around the other parts of the castle, we walked around the accompanying sculpture park.
On our way to the other castle, we stopped at the Gutmana Grotto where people have been leaving etchings in the rock since at least the 1700's.
At Sigulda Castle, the tower wasn't as tall but it did provide good views. Overall, it was a worthwhile excursion.
Before returning to the ship, we took a short walk around the old town of Riga.
Then in the evening we indulged on one of our favorite events on board - the Wine Bar.
Tuesday, the Sea Day, turned out to be a busy day. The weather was beautiful and the seas incredibly smooth. We went to the cooking demo and the future cruises presentation (where I won the raffle prize of $250 in shipboard credit!) but the highlight of the day was the Oceania Club party where we were presented with our diamond pins signifying our 40th cruise!
Today, we decided to forego an excursion and do what may be our favorite thing - just walk around town. Ronne is a lovely little town on the island of Bornholm with its share of churches and cafes for Linda to indulge in a cortado.
Tomorrow, its a return visit to Warnemunde, Germany.
Stunning couple between the two ship's officers. Congrats! A tough job, but someone had to do it. 💞Maddy
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your 40th. Saw a lot of familiar faces in that photo. Happy for you. Enjoy
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to your 40th cruise! It's a tough life after all! 🤗 Funny enough, all faces on the picture (except the musician in the background)are very familiar! Keep on enjoying - and tomorrow we are in the same country!!!! At least a few hours.
ReplyDelete$250! The inheritance isn't broken!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed seeing the sights of Riga and the unique etchings of the hearts on the grotto walls. Congrats on your 40th Oceania cruise, along with, with many more to come!
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