2015

Istanbul is supremely exotic, warmly welcoming, and quite unique – after all, where else can you tour Europe and Asia on the very same afternoon? Must sees include Haghia Sophia, decorated in 30 million tiny mosaic tiles, the greatest church in Christendom for 1000 years, then a mosque and now a museum; and Topkapi, palace of sultans, complete with harem quarters. And of course shopping in the Grand Bazaar, a medieval version of a mall, for unusual gifts to take home, stopping along the way in a café for a cup of Turkish coffee or mint tea.

 

With its popular beaches and European-style shops and restaurants along the waterfront, Kusadasi is primarily regarded as a resort town frequented by cruise ships and populated by European holiday-goers. Kusadasi is a lively resort that has something to offer everyone. Whether you like exploring, relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches or snapping up a bargain, Kusadasi has it allPigeon Island, also known as Bird Island, is the symbol of Kusadasi and where the name Kusadasi (meaning Bird Island) originated from. Visit the ancient city of Ephesus and the Virgin Mary’s House The large set of Aegean ruins at Ephesus—including the House of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John, and Temple of Artemis—lure travelers away from the city, as do the smaller but equally important sites at Priene, Didyma, and Miletus.

 

Mykonos is known for its whitewashed villages sprinkled with blue and jade green. It's also famous for its sophisticated nightlife. The most popular island in the Cyclades is bustling with activity, awash in beautiful alleyways, and home to alluring sandy beaches.

 

Piraeus is the main port of Athens, the biggest in Greece, and one of the most important in the Mediterranean Sea. Piraeus is walking distance from Kastella, a hill strewn with beautiful houses that offers a majestic view of the Saronic Gulf. Other points of interest include an archaeological museum, Mikrolimano, where you can enjoy an ouzo accompanied by seafood mezedes.

 

This is the time to personalize your cruise experience—you can participate in any or all the activities scheduled onboard or do nothing more strenuous than lift an umbrella drink while reading a book poolside.

 

Dubrovnik, Croatia is a medium sized city located on the very south of the Republic of Croatia on the Adriatic coast.'The City' or 'Grad' as the locals call it has an exceptionally rich historical heritage and culture which make Dubrovnik very popular among tourists who come to Croatia. The term "The City" (Grad) was coined by the proud citizens in the height of the Dubrovnik Republic when the trade, culture, and arts in Dubrovnik were at its peak and Dubrovnik seemed to be the center of trade on the Adriatic and the Mediterannean. The term "Grad" reffers only to the Old Town Dubrovnik whereas Dubrovnik includes also the surrounding suburban area.

 

Dubrovnik, Croatia is a medium sized city located on the very south of the Republic of Croatia on the Adriatic coast.'The City' or 'Grad' as the locals call it has an exceptionally rich historical heritage and culture which make Dubrovnik very popular among tourists who come to Croatia. The term "The City" (Grad) was coined by the proud citizens in the height of the Dubrovnik Republic when the trade, culture, and arts in Dubrovnik were at its peak and Dubrovnik seemed to be the center of trade on the Adriatic and the Mediterannean. The term "Grad" reffers only to the Old Town Dubrovnik whereas Dubrovnik includes also the surrounding suburban area.

 

This is the time to personalize your cruise experience—you can participate in any or all the activities scheduled onboard or do nothing more strenuous than lift an umbrella drink while reading a book poolside.

 

Civitavecchia Port is located 70 km from Rome, the capital of Italy. ROME is like an open-air museum, with its thousands of years of history, cobblestone streets, and delicious Italian cuisine. The independent state of Vatican City, where the spiritual leader of Catholics—the Pope—resides, is situated within the city of Rome. Rome offers a rich architectural and historical experience, with must-see landmarks including the Roman Forum, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

 

 

The port city of La Spezia is surrounded by spectacular Tuscan scenery. Set off from here to explore Florence - the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and home to world-class art galleries, museums and dining. Take in the architectural wonder of The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiori), discover Galileo's first telescopes at the Science Museum, or sneak in some shopping at the San Lorenzo Market Stalls. If you've already visited Florence, head to nearby Pisa to see its famous bell tower, or enjoy a hike through the lovely villages of Cinque Terre.

 

Nice, Queen of the Riviera, is imbued with the joie de vivre that epitomizes this fabled coastline. Perhaps it is that famous light and color that has long attracted artists, that makes one feel so alive, makes a stroll down the wide seaside Promenade des Anglais so exhilarating. The old town is a warren of meandering lanes edged by tall houses, and small, alluring shops. A treasure trove of archaeological and fine art museums is not to be ignored, nor is the famous flower market, awash in the heady scent and glowing hues of blossoms, and amazing displays of produce.

 

The distinct Italian accent you'll find here is a remnant of the 2nd century B.C. Romans. Finding the climate and inland of what is now known as Provence so inviting, they stayed and Toulon didn't become part of France until the 15th century.

 

Barcelona is located in the northeastern part of the country, 90 miles south of the French border. People from all around the world enjoy visiting this city for its individuality, cultural interest and physical beauty. When Hans Christian Andersen visited in 1862, he remarked that Barcelona was the "Paris of Spain." You're likely to agree. The city is a major cultural center with a fascinating history. Everywhere are archives, libraries, museums and buildings of interest - plus superb examples of modernist and Art Nouveau décor and architecture.