The Cruise

We stopped by Stonehenge on the way to Southampton.  It is a Neolithic site.  As near as learned people can determine it was constructed over a period of 1500 years starting as early as 3,000 BC.  The most famous part of it, the rock outcroppings, appear to be at the center of a much larger burial site.  Although controversial, some of the grave sites have been exhumed and the remains studied to get more information.  There is some indication that for a period of time the site was also used for potential “healing” properties. 

The site is getting a major facelift.  Not the rocks.  Those are staying the same.  A new visitor’s center is under construction.  It is about a half mile away from the site.  More parking will be located there.  Also, a light rail system is under construction.  The road between the new VC and the site will close and everyone who wants to visit will board trams. 

Because Europe is on holiday the site was mobbed, but, overall, crowds were managed.  You can wander the site freely and there is always space to move.

 

After Stonehenge our coach took us to the port and we are onboard the Crown Princess.  Today and tomorrow we are at sea.  We are looking forward to the downtime.  Jan is enjoying the weather on our balcony as we sail out of the port area.  There were five major cruise ships departing for a variety of destinations.  Given that, you’d think that someone would work on the cosmetics of the port areas.  Our ship was berthed opposite a garbage processing facility.  Another ship is near the refinery. 

Big ships attract attention and everyone likes to waive farewell from on shore or on other boats.  It’s a pleasant custom to waive back and forth.