dhamilt0512

We did the mini group tour 1 with  max of 8 people.  We just visited again in May and used them once again with our family.  It was again one of the highlights of our cruise.  Our party of 4 were the only one on the tour.  After Ephesus, the Terrace houses, and Artemis temple they offered us several choices of artisanal visits.  We chose to learn about the local pottery.  Our guide then gave us great tips for where to find local lunch, where to enjoy local treat Knafee, and how to visit the castle. 

The private or shared tour is the way to go in Ephesus. It was 1/2 the cost of the ship excursion.  We booked with Ephesus shuttle for a shared tour max of 8 people.  It ended up being just my husband and me.  It was one of the best tour experiences we have ever enjoyed.  Our tour guide was waiting just as we exited the port with a sign.  We had a private van with a driver.  Our guide Emre's historical and biblical knowledge of Ephesus was amazing.  Do not miss the Terrace houses they are a must-see.  Our tour included other stops and local lunch as well.  

 I highly recommend the train.  We did the reverse flew into Venice and took the train from Venice S Lucia to Trieste.  It was easy, and convenient as you will be on the grand canal when you exit the train station, affordable, and the views of the countryside are lovely.

Over the past 4 years we have taken a Thanksgiving cruise on Carnival 3 times. Everyone is correct that there will be a ton of kids on board. All three years the ship sailed at coast card capacity meaning if the room could hold 4 people it did. That being said what we found is lots of large family groups and therefore a little better supervising of the kids than we have seen on other cruises. Yes it was crowded but all three trips were wonderful and we had a great time.

enjoy your holiday!

Leaving out of Jacksonville that year can also make a huge difference in the first day weather. You have a greater chance of warmer and milder weather. I vote HMC as well. I am not a fan of Freeport.