Featured Artist - 2019 Australia - Dave Koz & Friends at Sea

Jazmin Ghent

By Athelda R. Ensley,

Collages, LLC

For cruisers experienced with Dave Koz & Friends at Sea, the addition of Jazmin Ghent to the 2019 line-up on Holland America’s Ms. Noordam was a superb idea. This national and now international jazz recording artist brought her own unique vibe to both voyages. She also enhanced the musical experience by complimenting the excellence that is commonly associated with this annual cruise.

Born in Heidelberg, Germany, Jazmin now lives and works in Central Florida. She is no stranger when it comes to applying her talents in the most creative of ways. Working as an elementary music teacher provides her with her share of ingenuity and resilience. This can be seen and heard through the artistry she demonstrates, playing her saxophone.

Tailoring Your Own Sound

Welcoming to admiring passengers onboard, Ghent showcased many of the qualities that make her stand out and right at home with every caliber musician. She has found the way to tailor a sound that connects to her name. Those who listened to Jazmin’s first album Boss, released in 2015 quickly became fans. It was easy to determine that this was a skilled and talented sax player no matter her age.

Harmonizing with Other Musicians

Dave Koz Cruises are an example of a well-oiled and memorable machine. They are designed to provide passengers with continual music at dynamic onboard venues. Each performance showcases the skills of diverse musicians, many of which are award-winning recipients. Ghent with her celebrated The Story of Jaz album joined this prestigious club of artists on the 2019 cruise.

Being Recognized

Artists, including the likes of Gerald Albright, Peter White, Marcus Anderson, and Richard Elliott were all on this adventure Down Under. Already recognized in 2017 as the Smooth Jazz Network’s Best New Artist, Ghent received the 2019 NAACP’s Image Award for Outstanding Jazz Album, The Story of Jaz. She received this honor while performing on the cruise in Australia this year.

Her career and talent will continue to bring attention Jazmin’s way. One thing’s for sure, cruisers are hoping to see her next year on the Dave Koz & Friends at Sea’s 2020 Amsterdam & the British Isles Cruise.

Chronicling Europe & The Baltics 2018 – The Music Plays On

If I had to find a phrase to describe these unique cruises it would be continual music. It doesn’t matter whether you are asleep in your cabin or on deck for a stroll. There is jazz being played everywhere on the ship from sunrise to sunset. What more could fans from countries around the globe ask for when they truly love the music?

Departing from Helsinki brings a bit of sadness to us, travelers because we know the end is coming. There’s one more full-day at sea and then back to Copenhagen. For the majority of us, we will be heading to the airport and home. So I normally take this time to finish up my notes, make some important observations, and enjoy the last two days apart from the Speed of Life.

Each cruise we’ve gotten the chance to meet people we would not have encountered in the states. That in itself is amazing to think about. We’ve adopted travel parents, brothers, sisters, and friends on these journeys. Maybe this is why so many of the jazz fans and cruisers keep coming each year. It’s difficult to say goodbye but we know the music will play on until we see each other again.

#Rick Braun #Marcus Anderson

Foodie Blubs from Waikiki, HI

Kona Coffee Purveyors

2330 Kalakaua Ave #160, 

International Marketplace, Honolulu, HI 96815

As you know, I’m a sucker when it comes to the smell of a good cup of coffee. The smell coming from Kona Coffee Purveyors hooked me immediately. I already knew an authentic macchiato was coming my way. This unique spot is known as an artisan location to get Kona coffee and espresso beverages. It is also a patisserie that offers guests amazing baked goods.

My hubby gravitated towards the Pineapple Coconut Croissant which also included tasty almond slivers. This was a delectable treat when paired with a Mocha Latte. I was a bit braver and tried the Cauliflower, Cheese, and Cayenne Scone with my macchiato. The baked goods were not only unique but well-worth a second visit the next morning.

Speed of Life Stops!

Diverse Hawaiian Trees

Anyone who has lived or spent a lot of time in the Mid-West and on the West Coast understands how seeing trees can affect you. It is common to feel strange going from a few trees on the landscape to nothing but trees. A visit to Honolulu, Hawaii will certainly provide you with the opportunity to see trees that you’ve probably never seen before.

These are some of the most diverse and amazing types of trees. Some are associated with the produce that grows here naturally, like coconut, pineapple, and macadamia. There are other types that grow here but originate from far away. The different types of trees and their growth patterns are another thing that makes the city stand out.

You can see humongous exhibits of these virtually everywhere from the city, the beach, and the mountains. The stunning displays make one wonder what soil is capable of producing such wonderful acts of nature. According to Garden Guides, there are 10 types of soil that exists in various parts of the country. Hawaii is the only state that happens to contain them all, which serves to enhance growth.

Norfolk Island Pine Trees

Your first look at these large trees may identify them as some type of pine true but not one you’ve probably seen before. The Norfolk Island Pine originates from this small island which is situated between New Zealand and New Caledonia in the Pacific. Its broad arm-like branches spread out and display pine attributes. These are often used as alternate Christmas trees in Honolulu during the holidays.

Banyan Trees

These intimidating trees are also referred to as Indian Banyan Trees, which are fichus examples. Many of these can grow quite large with extremely broad and spreading branches and alternate trunks. Most who see these trees for the first time may be intrigued. These trees grow and tend to drop aerial roots, which grow until they touch the ground. At this point, the roots become trunks of their own.

Tours around the city will show tourists many vibrant and gorgeous trees. Although island destinations are commonly associated with palm trees, they are not the only ones that are populous. These are only one of the different trees that can be found on this popular island. These are fine examples of why the soil here encourages the mature growth of plants, produce trees, and others.

Highlights from Hawaii - Foodie Dreams

Eggs ‘n Things

2464 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu

I am not normally a breakfast eater! I know, I know about the most important meal stuff and I agree, it just not my thing. This time around though, I am in Hawaii, it’s a beautiful morning, and apparently SPAM and eggs are somethings that I simply MUST try while here.

The long line of hungry people waiting told me a couple of things. One of which was that this meal would definitely be worth the wait. The efficient drill here is to pick out what you want before you get your table, pay first, and within a few minutes the meal is ready.

I opted for the Minced Egg Scramble with green onion, SPAM, and cheddar cheese. This came with a side of the largest buttermilk pancakes I’ve seen. There were 3 syrups to choose from, maple, coconut, and papaya. Let’s just say I made delicious choices all around. Yum!



Chronicling Europe & The Baltics 2018 – Attractions to See

Sunny St. Petersburg Exploration

Our female tour guide spoke English fluently and was an expert in her job. As we rode through the city, she pinpointed landmarks and attractions that make St. Petersburg unique. We got the opportunity to ride passed sights like St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, the Summer Palace of Peter, and Mikhailovsky Theatre.

There were historic structures within close proximity to modern businesses. It wasn’t difficult to spot some chain restaurants that are popular in most developed countries. I was excited about seeing these attractions and touring the Hermitage, I was also enthralled by my surroundings. This was a capital city that is at least two centuries old that accommodates many different types of people.

When all was said and done, I could only smile. Sometimes it is difficult to express feelings that move you. My problem was we hadn’t even entered the museum yet. The orchestration of Dave Koz and Friends at Sea cruises is precise. They take into consideration the awesomeness of these destinations and make them the backdrop for the music and entertainment. The comedy of Tommy Davidson was next up for the late night audience, like us.

Chronicling Europe & The Baltics 2018 – Priceless Impressions

Sunny St. Petersburg Exploration

Day five on board may have started like any other busy morning on these Dave Koz Cruises, but it was unique. Some early risers drank their coffee to the sounds of Kenny Lattimore, Chris Walker, and Javier Colon. Those of us a bit groggy after a late night of music, delectable cuisine, and dancing woke to a beautiful sunny day in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Now, I am aware that there was an elephant in the room when it came to expectations and preconceived notions. My very first impressions of this city were breath-taking. The views of the water and broader landscapes were priceless. The organization for excursions into the city was detailed and understandable.

Ours was a guided tour that journeyed through St. Petersburg ending at the Hermitage. We had three glorious hours to see artwork that could not be viewed anywhere else in the world. Before stepping into this renowned museum, we took tons of photos just like everyone in the crowd of tourists.

I hadn’t expected to ride through a vibrant and bustling cosmopolitan city. The Speed of Life of this day was filled with surprises and education about this particular Baltic port of call.



Chronicling Europe & The Baltics 2018 – Mixing Jazz in Estonia

A big part of my chronicling of this trip has to do with our shared love for jazz. I must be honest, however, in saying that I came late to the party. My husband grew up in Brooklyn, NY and has a rich history of listening to different styles of jazz. I started my journey by getting my feet wet with artists, such as Kenny G and Dave Koz.

Not long after we went on our first cruise in 2013 with DK, I realized that I was hooked. At the time, new artists like Vincent Ingala were hitting the scene and would soon be on the charts, as well. Industry staples like Richard Elliot and Gerald Albright solidified their place in what many refer to as Smooth Jazz.

There’s no way to separate the music from the destinations that we travel to. They are a mixture, a perfect blend that follows the couple thousand of us cruisers, who are on board for the both of them. Estonia left an impression on me partially because of its natural beauty. This was showcased in a very unassuming way.

There was no way to look at the busy residents and tourists on city streets to know about Tallinn’s history. It wasn’t possible to know that 1,500 islands, beaches, lakes, and forests are a part of the landscape that defines the country. Sitting relaxed in front of a restaurant near the mall, I listened to the sounds of the city.

I collected my thoughts and the inspiration for future writing, while absorbing the memories created in this place.

Chronicling Europe & The Baltics 2018 – The Views of Tallinn

The theme for this year’s cruise was Scandinavia and The Baltic because of the ports of call we would be traveling to. Many of us, who have cruised with Dave Koz and Friends at Sea before, joke that this is more than a terrific way to travel. It is a process from beginning to end that makes dreams come true. I’d never heard of the city of Tallinn but was familiar with the country of Estonia.

Situated along the coast of the Baltic Sea, Estonia is one of three countries that had at one time been a part of the Soviet Union. Today, it is an independent nation which is also a part of the European Union. One of the first things that I noticed, on the chilly morning of our arrival, was the combination of historical and modern structures.

Established as the capital city in medieval times, Estonia is beautiful. Quick commutes to virtually any part of the city makes it convenient for tourists with strict schedules. We visited some of the important attractions and landmarks in the area. These included Old Town, Pirita, and Viimsi. Imagine my surprise when we went in search of a cappuccino and found a fully functional and expansive shopping mall.

The Strawberry Crème Cappuccino was absolutely delicious but it was soon time to return to the ship. Norman Brown, Jonathan Fritzen, and Marcus Anderson were on the lineup for the selection of jazz venues on board and we were ready to enjoy them!

Chronicling Europe 2018 – My Views of Stockholm

Even though these are vacations for me they are also working trips. I find time each day to write and chronicle my impressions of each destination and port of call. There is always a lot to see and do but actually putting these things into words is the best way for me to experience them.

It doesn’t matter whether I’m travel writing for a client, researching an article, or taking notes for other work utilizing my own views is key. Stockholm really had a lot to offer me not simply as a tourist but as a family member. Getting the opportunity to see the city through the eyes of actual residents changes things a bit.

There were attractions that we certainly would have missed without this connection. One example in this category was the tasty espresso I got from a quaint little Italian café. It was nestled in a building along a narrow street lined with original brickwork from centuries past.

Children going on field trips and business people dining for lunch were sprinkled throughout the areas we visited. Words are so important because they paint a vivid picture. These can be used to create a masterpiece that is both colorful and impactful!

The Speed of Life moves on…Mindi Abair and her Grammy-winning talent were the show for the night.



Chronicling Europe 2018 – Embracing Stockholm

All of the locals that we met along the journey confirmed that the weather was unseasonably warm. I’d thought that heavy clothing would be necessary throughout the entire Baltics Cruise with Dave Koz and Friends at Sea. The sun was a staple as we arrived at Stockholm, Sweden.

The previous night’s main show included our host and special guest Kenny Lattimore in concert. Late nights and jazz in every venue on board couldn’t keep us away from this beautiful city. As usual our hop on-and-off tours allow us to visit historic parts of the city, as well as, those that were filled with business and cosmopolitan life.

The lack of hustle and bustle on the early morning roadways, struck me as different from the typical sights at home during this time of day. Stockholm Palace and City Hall were definitely two landmarks that showcase the brilliance of the past.

Excursions that included the Swedish Opera House, the City Centre, and other popular locations were high on the list of many of our fellow cruisers. Sampling regional and national cuisine is always on my personal list of must-do activities.

Lunch time in the park displayed workers from all backgrounds relaxing and embracing the gorgeous city of Stockholm. There were no Speed of Life struggles that we could see!

Chronicling Europe 2018 – Copenhagen Greets Me

The weather was a little dreary on the first day but by the afternoon the sun came out to greet us, so did the city of Copenhagen. Big Bus tours as some of the best ways to see the sights and sounds of any destination. This is true whether you are traveling domestically or internationally.

We enjoy it because it’s a great way to learn about the history and to find hot spots to go back and explore. The Little Mermaid, Tivoli Gardens, and Frederik’s Church are amazing attractions and landmarks to visit while in the city. We got the chance to hop-on and hop-off at sites that interested us.

Diverse shoppers like me loved hearing about IKEA and its history here in Denmark. Everyone we encountered from the couple from Germany to our British concierge assistant made an impression on the trip.

 

Now like many of the travelers also there during our stay, the goal and destination involved sailing with world-renown musician Dave Koz on the Friends at Sea, Scandinavia and The Baltic Cruise. We would be visiting Stockholm, Sweden, Tallinn, Estonia, St. Petersburg, Russia and Helsinki, Finland.

Our backdrop throughout the journey would include the most amazing jazz being played by equally as amazing artists. Setting sail with Day One Headliners of Michael Lington and Jonathan Butler got us ready for the week!



Chronicling Europe 2018 - We’re Nearly There…Copenhagen

My husband has joked for years that the sun never visits London. Surprise, surprise when we landed at Heathrow, the sun was already there. Being slightly familiar with this airport, we quickly got ourselves in place for the next leg of the journey.

Every single Dave Koz & Friends Cruises provides us with swag and other goodies that display the brand logo. Breezing through this airport is difficult to do without seeing fellow cruisers. This is pretty much our experience on each of the cruises we’ve taken with DK.

Our trips to Rome, Venice, and this year Copenhagen allowed us to bump into others from the states with the same itinerary. Most of us are in the same age group, but you’d think we were teens with all of the giddy looks of excitement.

Those who have traveled on these jazz immersed, international, educational, and totally ROCKIN’ cruises, simply know what’s ahead. And at this point in the airport…WE CAN’T WAIT!



Chronicling Europe 2018 - Travel through My Eyes

I don’t do a lot of promos for airlines or many brands in general. It’s hard to say anything bad about an airline, however, which spoils you rotten as you travel. British Airlines has safely transported us from the US to destinations around the world.

There are some folks out there who are like me in that they LOVE to travel and they HATE to travel. I’m always excited to get to the final destination, which for me has included stops like Rome, Venice, and Copenhagen. It’s the hustle and bustle of getting there, journeying through airports, and constantly running that I HATE.

I’m not sure if it’s My Journey to 50…or a saucy attitude, but there are parts of the process that make me grumble. This is one of the many reasons why this airline was made for me! Comfortable seating, tasty beverages, yummy meals, music, and movies make me settle in and rest.

I  did anticipate traveling to this portion of the world for many years, even before my husband booked this trip. Now the only thing I needed to do was nap, write, eat, drink, and REPEAT! British Airlines did the rest.