Bar Hopping Around The World

Happy hour is a ritual in our house and just because we’re traveling is no reason to leave it at home. Often we take the opportunity to sample famous libations in cities we visit. On a recent trip the Singapore Sling at Raffles was unfortunately just too expensive – $70 plus for two drinks was more than our travel budget could handle. CHEERS!

Dublin – The Temple Bar a historic pub in Dublin, Ireland. It is located in the Temple Bar district, which is known for its nightlife and live music. The pub was established in 1840 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dublin. Live music and a couple of Guinness hit the spot.

Singapore – Raffles and the Singapore Sling. Sir Stamford Raffles, a British statesman, founded Singapore in 1819 as a trading post. His name is associated with various landmarks and institutions in the city, including Raffles Hotel with its famous bar. Sorry – just too expensive.

The Singapore Sling is a gin-based cocktail that was created in 1915 by Ngiam Tong Boon at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. It is a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for any occasion.

To make a Singapore Sling, you will need:

  • 1 1/2 ounces gin
  • 1 ounce cherry liqueur
  • 1 ounce Cointreau
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice
  • 1/4 ounce grenadine
  • 1/4 ounce Benedictine
  • Garnish: pineapple wedge, cherry
  • Instructions To make a Singapore Sling, follow these steps:
  • Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  • Shake vigorously for 10 seconds.
  • Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
  • Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry.

Key West – Sloppy Joe’s Bar is a historic bar in Key West that is said to be the birthplace of the Sloppy Joe sandwich. The bar was founded in 1933 by Joe Russell, and it quickly became a popular hangout for fishermen, sailors and famous characters.

Everybody should have a beer at Sloppy Joe’s for the experience but we prefer Captain Tony’s.

London – Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is a pub in Fleet Street, London, England. It is one of the oldest pubs in London, dating back to the 16th century. The pub is known for its traditional atmosphere and its association with famous writers such as Charles Dickens and Mark Twain.

Paris – The oldest bar in Paris is Le Procope, which was founded in 1686. It is located in the Latin Quarter and has been a popular haunt for intellectuals and artists over the centuries.

San Francisco – Buena Vista Cafe for Irish Coffee This classic drink is made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, topped with a layer of whipped cream. It was invented in the 1940s at the Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco. Worth the bragging rights.

To make the classic Irish Coffee from the Buena Vista Cafe, you’ll need:

  • 2 oz Irish whiskey
  • 4 oz hot coffee
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 oz whipped cream

Tips for Making the Perfect Irish Coffee. For a truly authentic Buena Vista Cafe Irish Coffee, use Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey and serve it in a preheated glass. Top with freshly whipped cream and grated nutmeg for a touch of elegance.

Washington D.C. – Old . Grill Established in 1856 is the oldest bar in Washington, D.C. It has served notable figures such as Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. The signature drink of Old Ebbitt Grill is the Ramos Gin Fizz. It is a classic gin cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, lime juice, sugar, egg white, and cream. The drink is shaken vigorously and served with a float of soda water. It’s my home town and visiting the Old Ebbitt Grill is like taking a pilgrimage

Supermoon above three iconic monuments: Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and Capitol Building in Washington DC as viewed from Arlington, Virginia

Hong Kong – In the Wan Chai district of Hong Kong is home to the oldest bar in the city, the Globe Bar. Established in 1921, the Globe Bar has a rich history and has been a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The signature drink at Globe Bar Hong Kong is called “The Globe.” It is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail made with gin, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and soda water.

Additional famous bars and their creations

  • Mai Tai at Trader Vic’s, California, USA: A rum-based cocktail created in 1944.
  • Margarita at Hussong’s Cantina, Mexico: A tequila-based cocktail created in the 1940s.
  • Moscow Mule at the Cock ‘n’ Bull, Los Angeles, USA: A vodka-based cocktail created in the 1940s.
  • Old Fashioned at the Pendennis Club, Louisville, USA: A whiskey-based cocktail created in the 1880s.
  • Manhattan at the Algonquin Hotel, New York City, USA: A whiskey-based cocktail created in the 1870s.

Cruise Port Mumbai, India

The Port of Call of Mumbai, India

Mumbai International Airport officially is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), formerly known as Sahar International Airport. It is the second busiest airport in India in terms of passenger traffic.

The first thing you’ll need to understand when visiting India is you’re going to be engaging with the Indian bureaucracy a lot. First you need a visa and after that you’ll deal with immigration and that is probably not just once. Indian officials will check your passport and on several occasions they will give you additional papers (passes, landing cards etc.). Don’t question it just add these to your papers – someone will probably ask for them later.

Mumbai International Airport

Transportation From The Airport – Taxis are a convenient and reasonably inexpensive way to travel to and from Mumbai International Airport. In planning your trip you will probably be quoted on a number of options for getting to your hotel or the cruise pier by hotels, tour companies and transfer services and they can run well over US$100. On a recent trip our prepaid* taxi ride from the airport to Marine Drive cost under US$20. *Prepaid taxis are available at a stand outside baggage claim near the taxi exit at the airport, and you can also use ride-hailing services like Uber that are waiting right in the taxi stand area. (Most Uber cars are identified by whole car graphics)

Visas, Immigration, Landing Passes – Most visitors to India will need a visa (available HERE). It’s important to understand that official government employees in India take their jobs very seriously and the country runs on red tape. You should expect to have documents checked at numerous locations and be given any number of forms and papers that allow you to proceed through a surprising number of checkpoints.

Where your Ship Docks

Cruise ships dock near the commercial piers at the International Cruise Terminal (Green Gate) located in the harbor area north of Gateway of India. Getting into the port may require using a port licensed taxi and even then you may have to do some walking (official security).

Wheelchair Accessibility

Disembarking – This port has a developing cruise ship pier but you can expect broken pavement and potholes. The ease of disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway designs. The cruise pier disembarks right into downtown but there may be a walk to get out of the port along with security check points. For passengers using wheelchairs there can be moderate inclines to deal with in several locations.

Marine Drive

Port City Characteristics – This port area has a reasonably flat geography but there are typically difficult streets and sidewalks to navigate. Wheelchair infrastructure is below average for large cities. The waterfront and near port area has few inclines in sidewalks but intersection crosswalks may have curbs or other wheelchair obstacles.

About Mumbai

The Mumbai population as of 2023 is estimated to be around 20.9 million, making it the most populous city in India and the seventh most populous city in the world. Mumbai is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, averaging over 20,000 people per square kilometer. This high density has led to challenges such as crowding on public transport, traffic congestion and pollution.

Transportation

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (Central Railway Station)

Mumbai has a number of public bus routes and commuter trains and it’s common practice for locals, during rush hours, to line up to share taxis. City traffic is heavy and chaotic and caution should be taken when crossing streets even with the lights. Taxis and Uber are not expensive and your best option, especially around the major visitor areas. Be sure and negotiate and agree on a fare before getting in the vehicle.

Local Currency

The local currency is the Rupee and it is the preferred payment method. Credit cards are usually accepted at hotels and some restaurants but use caution. There are numerous international ATMs and many hotels will change currency but at a higher rate. The US Dollar to Indian Rupee is about 1.00 USD = 83.5 INR but download a currency app for current rates.

Tours

Because of the city’s large size, to see the highlights, it is advisable to look into packaged tours either through the ship or with recognized tour companies. Through a personnel referral we booked several private tours with a local licensed guide (Highlights, Dharavi Slums and Elephanta Island) which we felt were well worth the cost. You can contact him directly:

Our Mumbai Guide

Ahed Syed – Email: sayedahad02@gmail.com – Phone: +919867722048 and mention The Intentional Traveler (We do not get any commission or credit)

Mumbai’s Major Markets Mumbai is home to a diverse range of markets, each offering unique shopping experiences. From traditional bazaars to modern malls, here are some of the most popular markets in the city:

  • Crawford Market (Above): Known for its fresh produce, spices, and dry fruits.
  • Chor Bazaar: A flea market where you can find antiques, vintage clothing, and other unique items.
  • Zaveri Bazaar: The largest gold market in India, offering a wide variety of jewelry. 

Attractions

Elephanta Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Mumbai Harbour, India. It is home to several ancient caves and rock-cut sculptures, including the famous Trimurti statue of Lord Shiva. Read more HERE.

To get to the island, you can take a ferry from the Gateway of India in Mumbai. The ferry ride takes about an hour and costs around 200 rupees.

The Gateway of India is a large basalt-made triumphal arch in Mumbai. It was erected to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary in India in 1911.

Marine Drive is a 3.6-kilometer-long boulevard in South Mumbai. It is a popular tourist destination and is often referred to as the “Queen’s Necklace” due to its shape.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum, originally named Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, is a museum in Mumbai which documents the history of India from prehistoric to modern times. It was founded during the British rule of India in the early years of the 20th century when the city was still called Bombay. Prominent citizens with the help of the government financed the building to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales.

Juhu Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Mumbai, known for its’ vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food stalls. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing evening by the beach, indulge in local snacks or take a camel ride along the shore.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic railway station in Mumbai. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcases a blend of Victorian Gothic and traditional Indian architecture. The station is a bustling hub of activity and a symbol of Mumbai’s rich heritage.

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya Museum is dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and his life and work. It was once the Mumbai residence of Gandhi and now houses a library, photo exhibition, and artifacts related to the Indian independence movement.

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, formerly known as the Victoria and Albert Museum, is the oldest museum in Mumbai. It showcases the cultural heritage and history of the city through its’ collection of artifacts, sculptures and exhibits. The museum’s architecture and displays offer a glimpse into Mumbai’s cultural past.

Our Hotel

InterContinental Marine Drive Mumbai is a 5-star luxury hotel located on Marine Drive in Mumbai. It offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is close to many of the city’s attractions. By international standards, rates were reasonable and the location is near attractions and restaurants. The sunsets from the roof bar are almost worth the stay.

Tipping And Restaurants

As a general rule of thumb, tipping in restaurants and for services should range from 5-10% of the total amount for most service providers. If you have been provided exceptional service, top it up by an extra 3 to 5%. You should tip a taxi driver by rounding up the fare to the nearest ten. If you book a driver/guide or taxi for the day, you should tip 50-100 rupees depending on service. Airport shuttle drivers should be tipped 50 rupees.

There are GST (General Service Taxes) in most restaurants with rates of 5%, 12%, or 18%. For nice restaurants and ones in tourist areas, don’t be surprised if the check comes with some creative add-on charges as well.

Port of Call Goa, India

The colonial era of Goa is a complex story, shaped by conquest, Christianity and commerce, beginning with the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century. It became the center of the Portuguese Asian trade and was a major Christian religious center.

Where Your Ship Docks

The Goa Cruise Port is located in the city of Mormugao, in the state of Goa, India. It is the largest port in the region and handles both passenger and cargo ships. The cruise ship terminal at the Goa Port is modern and well-equipped, with facilities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and bars. The terminal can accommodate up to three cruise ships at a time.

Transportation

Goa-Tourism has a good web site for information on transportation options HERE.

Taxi Services from Goa Pier – Several taxi services are available at the Goa pier, including prepaid taxis, metered taxis, and private taxis. Prepaid taxis offer fixed rates to popular destinations, while metered taxis charge by the distance traveled. Private taxis can be negotiated for a fare.

Taxi fares from the Goa pier vary depending on the destination and type of taxi. Prepaid taxi fares start from around US$6.00, while metered taxi fares start from around US$3.00. Private taxi fares can be negotiated.

Air Travel – Goa International Airport (GOI) is the main airport serving the state of Goa. It is located in Dabolim, about 20 miles from the capital city of Panaji. Several domestic and international airlines operate flights to and from the airport (GOI).

Currency

1,000 Indian Rupees is equal to 12 US Dollars. India is becoming much more credit card friendly and most consumer facing businesses will accept the major cards. ATMs are becoming more common and it’s a good idea to carry some Indian Rupees for taxis and small purchases.

Tipping

It’s customary to tip in India. 10% is normal for drivers, restaurants and tourism workers. Some restaurant bills include a tip described as a service fee.

Attractions

The Beaches of Goa

Goa is renowned for its stunning beaches, such as Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna, which offer a range of activities like sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Nightlife

Goa is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous nightclubs and the beach scene famous for beach shacks offering live music.

A mini party on its own, the Flea Market on Arpora Hill between Baga and Anjuna is a complete mix of live music, food, bars, shopping, restaurant stalls of different cuisines and a popular nightlife spot in Goa. You need to confirm hours and days of operation.

Historical Sites

Goa has a rich history and several historical sites worth exploring, including the Old Goa churches, the Reis Magos Fort, and the Aguada Fort. From the port Old Goa is about an hour trip.

Old Goa’s Rich Heritage

Old Goa, a former Portuguese colony, boasts a wealth of architectural marvels, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Se Cathedral, known for its imposing Baroque facade.

Churches and Convents

Old Goa is home to numerous churches and convents, each with its unique architectural style and historical significance. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, with its intricate carvings, and the Convent of St. Monica, known for its serene ambiance, are must-visit attractions.

Beautiful Landscapes

While Old Goa is renowned for its architectural heritage, it also offers picturesque natural landscapes along the banks of the Mandovi River as it meanders through the city.

Wildlife

Goa is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks worth considering.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats and is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including species like the Bengal tiger, leopards, and black panthers.

Mollem National Park: Situated within the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, this park is famous for its rich biodiversity, including various bird species, butterflies, and mammals.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is recognized for its dense forest cover and is an ideal place for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Port Call Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is one of Southeast Asias most popular destinations because of its’ beautiful beaches, night life, stunning scenery and rich culture. It is located on the west coast of Thailand’s southern peninsula which is the location of Phuket’s major beaches, including Patong, Karon, and Surin. These beaches attract people from all over Thailand as well as visitors from around the world who come for the swimming, sunbathing, water sports and beautiful scenery. Many beaches are famous for their resorts, beach clubs and restaurants.

Where your Ship Docks

There are no docking facilities for large ships along the west coast, so this is a tender port for cruise ships which normally arrive from November through April. Cruise ships will usually tender to Patong beach (the center of the tourist area). However, during Monsoon season (May-October) ships will often dock at the less convenient Phuket Deep Sea Port at Ao Makarm on the east coast.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Disembarking – This is usually a tender port for large cruise ships and wheelchair bound passengers will encounter challenges both in getting on tenders as well as disembarking at the pier. The port area has moderate inclines in sidewalks. Intersection crosswalks may have curbs or other wheelchair obstacles. Getting away from the beach area it is mostly hilly terrain and you are likely to encounter steep inclines with only access using stairs.

Transportation

A Phuket Tuk-Tuk

The best way to travel around Phuket is to use options, such as songthaews (shared taxis), tuk-tuks, and metered taxis. Songthaews are a popular and affordable choice, running fixed routes around the island. Songthaews are actually pickup trucks that have been converted to carry passengers on the two benches in the back. They are typically red in color and have a “Phuket” sign on the side or front. They operate on fixed routes with posted fares and pick up and drop off passengers along the way. Tuk-tuks and metered taxis provide more flexibility but can be more expensive.

Phuket has a well-regulated taxi system with fares set by the local government. Taxis are required to use meters, and drivers must follow a fixed schedule of rates which helps prevent overcharging and provides more reliable transportation for visitors. When taking a metered taxi in Phuket, it’s customary to make sure the meter is turned on and the rate is understood before starting the journey. Passengers should also be aware of any additional fees, such as tolls or airport surcharges.

Renting a Scooter or Motorbike: Another convenient option is to rent a scooter or motorbike which allows you to explore Phuket at your own pace. This is a popular choice among tourists, but be sure to wear a helmet and ride safely. Rental shops can be found throughout the island.

Attractions

Spend time exploring Phuket Old Town, a historic district with well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, quaint shops and local eateries. Wander through the charming streets, admire the colorful buildings and get a taste of Phuket’s rich cultural heritage.

Phang Nga Bay is a stunning bay with towering limestone karsts and emerald-green waters. It is a popular destination for boat tours and kayaking.

The Big Buddha is a massive white marble Buddha statue located on top of Nakkerd Hill. The location offers panoramic views of Phuket and is a popular spot for sunset watching.

Wat Chalong is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Phuket. It is known for its’ beautiful architecture and sacred relics.

Food

In Phuket, you can experience traditional Thai cuisine and local street food at various places. Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market) is a vibrant place that offers a wide array of local street delicacies including grilled seafood, pad Thai, fresh fruit shakes and Thai desserts. It’s a great place to sample authentic dishes.

Throughout Phuket, especially in areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon, you’ll find numerous street food stalls serving up classic Thai dishes such as tom yum soup, papaya salad and fried rice.

Famous Restaurants

Raya Restaurant: For a sit-down dining experience, Raya Restaurant in Phuket Town is renowned for its authentic Phuket-style Thai cuisine, including dishes like crab curry and stir-fried prawns with tamarind sauce.

Blue Elephant Phuket: This upscale restaurant offers a refined setting to enjoy traditional Thai cuisine, including royal Thai dishes and regional specialties.

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A Guide To Using Our eBook

CRUISE CONTROL GUIDES will soon be available in several digital formats that include ePub, PDF and Kindle. Each version has its own specific characteristics with a number of similarities.

Content Page – The content page contains links to each subject identified by underlined and colored text which when clicked will jump to the indicated page.

Hyperlinks – Throughout these guides are elements that function as links to additional information. These are usually identified by underlined and colored text. Clicking the text can connect you with specific web sites provided your viewing device has an internet connection and a browser application.

Printing Pages – Feel free to print all pages for your individual use. Make copies to use when planning a trip and to take with you to use while visiting ports and getting to your cruise.

The PDF Format – Downloading this guide in a pdf format into a computer or tablet allows for the most functionally. With an internet connection you can easily access the various hyperlinks as well as specifying page ranges to print hard copies. 

To transfer the pdf file into your tablet or iPad follow the steps below.

Android Devices – If the file is on your computer, connect your Android device to the PC using the appropriate USB cable and transfer the file to the phone or tablet. Using File Manager open CRUISE CONTROL on your Android phone or tablet.

iPads – Make sure you have the iBooks app installed on your iPad.This is a free app that you can download through iTunes or the App Store. Open iTunes on your computer. iTunes acts as a go-between from your computer to your iPad. Make sure you can see your PDF in your Finder on a Mac or as an icon on the desktop. Drag and drop the PDF into your iTunes Book library. The file will now appear in your iTunes Library. Plug your iPad into your computer and then select it in the Devices menu on iTunes. Click on the Books tab within iTunes (in the bar across the top of the main frame). Check the Sync Books checkbox, if it isn’t already enabled. Now click the Apply button.

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Port Of Call Hambantota, Sri Lanka

A Cruise Port Off The Beaten Path

Sri Lanka’s national parks are the main draw that brings cruise ships and visitors to this part of the island country. It is most famous as a place that still offers an opportunity to see wild Indian elephants, leopards, monitor lizards and lots and lots of birds. Also, the Hambantota area has just recently begun to develop a number of beach resorts that considering its pristine character could have serious potential.

Where Your Ship Docks

The Port of Hambantota is a deep-water port located in Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka. It was officially opened in 2010 and is one of the largest ports in South Asia. The port has been a subject of controversy and geopolitical tensions due to its strategic location and its Chinese management and development with Chinese investment and loans.

While this port facility can accommodate large cruise ships it is generally an industrial port. While the Sri Lankan government has plans to develop the area as a tourist destination that may be some years away. Currently there are no cruise terminals or facilities and it is also dozens of miles from any towns or beach resorts. The best way of taking advantage of this port of call is probably to book a cruise tour.

Attractions

Currently the number one attraction for the port of Hambantota is the access to national parks and if this is your first visit don’t pass them up.

Yala National Park: Explore one of Sri Lanka’s most famous national parks, known for its diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, and birds. Most cruise ships offer tours but you need to understand that it is almost a one hour trip from the port to the park. For more important information on visiting Yala National Park click HERE.

Bundala National Park: Another great spot for bird watching and wildlife spotting, especially for migratory birds.

Hambantota Salt Flats: A major part of the local economy. Witness the vast salt flats and learn about the traditional salt production methods.

The Kataragama Temple: A sacred site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims, known for its religious significance and colorful festivals.

Hambantota Beach: Looking for a great unspoiled beach? Many cruise ships offer a beach package as part of their port call and an amazing beach it is. It is known for its long stretches of sandy coastline, clear blue waters, and scenic views. The beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports activities. There are also a number of nearby coral reefs, which offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. The areas coral reefs and the clear waters and relatively shallow depth make it an ideal spot for both beginner snorkeling and experienced divers. A number of local tour operators offer snorkeling excursions and equipment rentals.