Brilliance of the Seas, 7/20/07, Med – Venice LONG!

Our trip was wonderful. We were so busy that I really never had the time / energy to maintain my journal, but now that we’re back, I’ll try to reconstruct things from memory.

Beginnings

Our good friends with whom we frequently cruise were very anxious to see Europe. Late last summer they booked the Brilliance of the Seas for 7/20/07, and send out an invite to others that might be interested to join them. DW and I did not wrestle with this decision very long. It turned out that it was to be just the four of us.

A couple of months later, DWs son calls and asks when our departure date is. He then gives us some great news, that they are expecting their first child, and the due date is 7/14. Needless to say, we were very excited at the prospect of having a new grandchild (have two already via her daughter) but we’re very conflicted as to if we should cancel the trip. At their urging we did not, but it was not a decision easily reached. Our DIL did not deliver the baby prior to our departure and we spent a lot of time on the phone from Europe as the days progressed. DW found an (IP based) international phone card that only costs 2 ½ cents per minute from a payphone. We also set up our cell phones for international usage.

Flights

Our original intent was to purchase a pair of economy tickets and use miles to upgrade to Business Class, but the lady I dealt with at the UAL Frequent Flyer desk told me that when using their “partners” that was a mistake. We were a few miles short, but paid to have miles moved from my DWs account to mine, and then bought a few more miles. We waited nervously for our transactions to settle, but in the end had a pair of business class tickets Chicago to Barcelona via Frankfort. We were able to secure the same flights as our friends.

It was my first Trans Atlantic flight, and first experience with Lufthansa. Everything was top notch. From check in to the Business Class lounge at O’Hare – every step of the way, it was a fine experience. And those long haul business class seats (and amenities) are out of this world.

On time departure, arrival, and although a bit tired, found our connecting gate at Terminal 1 in Frankfort easy enough. We arrived in BCN on time and in as good of shape as one might expect. None of us slept a lot on the planes, but that was more a function of our excitement and the time changes than anything else.

Barcelona

Got off the plane, collected our bags and we were out the door and getting cabs to the Hotel Majestic promptly. Our room was not ready yet (it was only about 11AM) so we left our bags with the bellman, and fortunately, our friends room was available, so we were able to leave our carry on bags in their room.

I had the maps I had purchased at Barnes & Noble a few weeks prior. I had studied them well, and noted the sites we hoped to visit. One slight problem – I thought the hotel was on the other side of the street, so when we exited, I said turn right, and we should have turned left. Imagine my confusion when we reached Avenue Diagonal. Well, we quickly regrouped, and decided to go to Sagrada Familla a instead of Las Rambla because we were already part way there. SF is certainly a sight to behold. I understand why the word gaudy may come from the works of Gaudi. (We also checked out the exteriors of Gaudi’s Casa Batllo and Casa Pedrera, as they were only a block or two from our hotel.) I was also very happy that I had purchased a camera with a 12x lens (Cannon 3SIS). Now that we’re back and reviewing the pictures, that 12x lens with image stabilization was a great investment. (If you care to view a few, they’re at http://picasaweb.google.com/TerrysPics49 . (I haven’t had an opportunity to upload the video clips yet. I’d recommend “view as a slide show” if you have the time.) Back at the hotel, we were able to check in, and found our friends up at the pool reading and relaxing. All our research said not to go to sleep upon arrival, and although pretty tired, we all stayed up throughout the day.

I had used the ATM in a bank’s lobby, and had no problems other than it was limited to what I could withdraw. We had purchased a few Euros at a bank in Chicago prior to departure, and glad we had so we could pay for the taxi to the hotel. Frankly, I was too tired to remember to seek out an ATM at the airport upon arrival. It seemed that most of the ATMs we found were limited to a €300 withdrawal. Not a difficult adjustment to make. In the end, using ATMs to withdraw cash was the best, most cost effective option.

DW and I went to a very early dinner (by any standards, let alone Catalan). The front desk staff recommended a very nice tapas restaurant a few short blocks away, and it was just what we needed. A few bites of this, a few bites of that, a little wine for me, some sangria for her. A stop at the Ben & Jerry’s we found on the way back to the hotel, a brief stroll to help the digestion, and we were sound asleep by 8 or 9 PM. We slept a good 11-12 hours, and awoke refreshed.

The next morning we met our friends and went to a coffee shop just down the block for a coffee (really very very good coffee) and a roll. Then we walked to Las Rambla. Managed to locate the market (Mercat de la Boqueria), and it was really a great option. Airy, bright, and colorful. Stacks of great looking fruits and vegetables, followed by stalls with really fresh seafood. Giant prawns still alive and moving their tentacles on the bed of ice. We bought some delicious cherries and a bottle of water to wash them with. Back to the main avenue, another block or two and a left turn took us directly into the old gothic quarter. We found the old Jewish quarter and the synagogue that may date back to Roman days and thus the oldest remaining in all of Europe. Next we visited the Barri Gotic Cathedral. We were not certain we could go in, as we had left our shorts on, but removing our caps was the only requirement.

From there we walked to the Picasso museum, but the lines were very long, so we just stopped off for a cold drink and decided to grab a cab back to our hotel where we checked out, and took cabs to the dock.

Brilliance of the Seas

Check in was a breeze, and within a few minutes we were in our room. BOS is a very nice ship (although to keep things in perspective, I’ve never met a cruise ship that I didn’t like!) We had a standard balcony stateroom, and although the bathroom was tiny, they seem to have solved the problem of the clinging shower curtain and the closet / storage space was adequate. A pair of upright chairs with a small table on the balcony was all we needed. With hours to go before sail away, we left in search of a pay phone at the terminal, but end up using the cell. If DIL doesn’t go into labor by Sat. they will check her in the hospital and induce for a delivery on Sunday.

We had requested to be seated with others at a large table, but found that it was to be just the four of us. The physical size of our table was a bit cramped, so our friend asked our head waiter for something a bit larger. Kersie was his name, and he was without doubt the very best headwaiter any of us had ever had. He managed to provide us with larger accommodations for the balance of the cruise.

That first night we stopped off at the Champaign bar for a pre-dinner cocktail, and were so taken by Suzie that it became our regular spot. What a pleasure to be greeted by name, have the staff know what you drink, and just how you like it prepared without having to restate it every night.

We thought the wine packages to be of value, and ended up getting another when the first ran out. We did not buy the “Coke” packages, as with so much time going into port, it seemed like it would not be worth while.

Our room steward (Rafael) was wonderful. Although we’re only Gold Crown & Anchor, he provided the terrycloth robes I had requested. I don’t know if my habit of pre-tipping the room steward $20 upon our first meeting influenced him or not.

Villefranche

At this stop, we went different ways than our friends. We took the RCI Nice, Eze, and Monaco full day tour; they went with the RCI Nice & Monaco half day tour.

Nice is very nice with a beautiful water front area and he color of the Med was incredible. DW loves casinos and we had some free time in Nice, so we made an unscheduled visit. She had a heck of time figuring out how to play video poker, and then how to get her small winnings out, but it all worked out well.

Eze is a very charming little medieval hamlet way up in the mountains overlooking the sea. Very quaint and picturesque. The few shops we ventured into were small, musty and had nothing we were remotely interested in buying. On the other hand, the views were outstanding. DW got calls through to home from a payphone in Eze. No baby yet.

The Grand Casino was a joy. We had read some reviews from folks that thought it dark and unpleasant. We couldn’t disagree more. It’s beautiful. I tried my luck at roulette (craps table not opened at the time), while DW found her machines, and we had had a real good time. We also met our friend there (our paths crossed a couple of times that afternoon.) On this occasion, she won at the roulette table while her DH lost some of it back. The only reason I left with more Euros that I stated with was because I hit the ATM by the casino cashier before we left. All told we are very glad we paid a visit.

Monaco is a truly beautiful port to visit, had great views, took a few really good photos, and all told had a wonderful time.

Florence

All four of us had booked the ships “Florence on your own” tour. We made a stop at a leather factory on the way there, and I bought a belt. Our TA had suggested we purchase tickets for Accadamia to see David in advance which we did, and were glad of it. There were very long lines. David was amazing. Soon we were back on the street, and went exploring. I went to the Church of Orsanmichele while the ladies and my buddy looked for gloves for his DW. Meet up at the Piazza della Signoria. Had a quick lunch there (good Pizza Margarita for them and good pasta for me.) It was hot we were all thirsty, so we all ordered the large diet cokes. Little did we know how much soft drinks cost over there. Try € 8 – EACH. Yep, that’s € 32 Euros for 4 large cokes! Oh well.

After lunch (and I’m again pleased to say that having a good map of Florence – this one courtesy of the tourist bureau - found the link on these boards - was a great thing to do) we headed over to the Ponte Vecchio. Great photo ops, and watched as a man caught a young pick pocket with his hand in his DWs purse. He grabbed the offenders arm and shouted angrily at the youth “HEY, get your hand out of her purse” but then let go as the young thief stood motionless and emotionless looking at the man. It was over a fast as it started.

My friend’s wife was on the trail of the black gold she had heard about, but did not find anything to her liking, so we moved on. Found our way to the ‘Pigs market’ and again moved on. As we had time before meeting with our tour guide for the return trip, I suggested we go to the Bargello Museum, but alas, it was closed. Fortunately, we found a gelatteria to raise our spirits while DW was on the payphone back home (still no baby) and we proceeded on a smooth trip back to our ship. It was another great day.

PS – a sad note for some other folks, as when we docked it was announced over the PA on the BOS announced that the trains to Florence were not running due to a strike! As you might imagine, we heard that there were some very upset folks as a result.

Naples (Pompeii & the Amalfi coast)

I awoke to the news that our DIL had delivered a beautiful little girl late Sunday night back home. Mother and baby were doing just fine.

I had been looking forward to seeing Naples ever since we decided to take this cruise. “See Naples and die” it was all I could do to keep that from repeating over and over in my brain. The scenes from “The Mechanic” with Charles Bronson kept playing in my head. We booked AP Tours in advance and Alberto was waiting for us as we walked off the ship.

First stop, Pompeii. My friend’s wife is a retired teacher and had taught ‘Pompeii’ in school for 17 years so she was very anxious to go there. Before leaving the dock area, however, we told Alberto that since the weather was so calm, we would probably opt to take the ferry back from Sorrento (by avoiding the traffic, we’d save an extra 45 minutes or so, which would allow us to see Sorrento. He noted that the BOS had docked a different spot than usual, so he drove us over to where we’d be getting off the ferry, and showed us the route we’d be walking back to the BOS. (Regrettably, we forgot what that was – read on).

Alberto was as charming as we had heard. At Pompeii, he introduced us to the private guide they had arranged for us, and she gave us a wonderfully informative tour. The technology the Romans had 2000 years ago (i.e. indoor pluming) was astounding. The entire Pompeii experience was a smashing success. The only down side was the oppressive heat. Somewhere around 100 degrees. But the bottom line is that she made Pompeii come alive for us, and having a private guide here is a “must” in our book.

Fortunately, we had a chance to recharge our batteries in Alberto’s air conditioned Mercedes mini-van. On the highway to the town of Angri, and then up the mountain side and over. We stopped at Ravello where we wandered about for about a while. Just lovely. Then we drove down to Amalfi. What a beautiful place. Alberto provided the commentary with stops as needed to photo ops.

Along the picturesque coastline to Posatino. Having read the rave reviews on these boards, we had scheduled lunch at La Tagliata but with the heat of the day, we did not want a large meal, so we had him cancel. He dropped us in Positannio and we found a little restaurant where we had a light bite to eat. Then back in the van, some more photo stops, and on to Sorrento. Got a taste of limoncello and then met Alberto again. He drove us down to the dock, bought our ferry tickets for us, and escorted us onto the ferry to make 100% certain we got to the correct hydro-foil. Before leaving he gave each couple a small bottle of limoncello as a parting gift.

I had read on these boards that tips in Europe were not viewed as they are in the states, and I liked the suggestion of developing a relationship with your driver via emails, and seeing if there was not something we could bring them from home that they might enjoy. Sarah (in the AP office) was most anxious to get some refills she was unable to locate for an electric toothbrush she bought while working n a cruise ship in the Caribbean, and we found it and brought it for her. (Alberto tried to pay me but I refused.) Alberto, always the joker, wanted an iphone, as they are not available in Europe yet. Sorry Alberto, we let you look, but you can’t keep it. Somehow not providing a cash gratuity just went against our nature as we really enjoyed the services provided, so while perhaps a bit less that what we might do back home, we still provided a cash tips to both our Pompeii guide as well as Alberto as an expression our appreciation.

Our ferry across the Bay of Naples was uneventful, and we were physically drained from the heat. We saw that there was construction between us and the BOS and started walking, realizing that we had forgotten what Alberto had shown us. Fortunately, we found a few cabbies hanging around the ferry dock who spoke English and they graciously told us how to get to our destination. It wasn’t really that long of a walk, but being physically so tired and walking through the rather deserted dock area made me rather nervous, but we managed to get home without incident. We knew we had a day at sea to rest up, and we’d really needed it. We were very tired.

My wife has great kids, and by the time we were able to check our email, photos of the newest arrival were there waiting for us. Earlier we had spoken with Natasha at the Customer Service desk and explained our situation. She gave us her email, and told us to forward her the pictures, and she would get us color copies (as all of the printers in the internet cafes on board were black and white printers that were not up to doing photos justice.) Soon had a set of the photos done on a color printer, with a very warm note of congratulations from Natasha. Once again the crew and staff of the BOS exceeded our expectations. That night at dinner we toasted our latest arrival.

At Sea

Not much to say here, except to happily report that RCI is attempting to address the ‘chair hog’ issue, and I must applaud them for it. You get towels on deck by the pool, and are told that unattended chairs will be cleared after 30 minutes. They write down your room number when you get towels, and again when you return them. They have folks walking around with masking tape and marking pens, and it appears that they use that method to note how long chairs have been empty. I did see more than one person go to the towel attendant to get their belongings back after they had been cleared. The system seemed to work pretty well.

Not to belabor the point but the wine tasting was a bit disappointing. I realize that it was a freebie, but still, tasting six different wines from two glasses! A table in the center had cheese, crackers & fruit. Help yourself. By contrast, on our last Princess cruise, the wine tasting cost about $25, and we had a clean glass for each wine, and it was matched with cheeses & fruits that it would pair with well. I’m sorry if I sound like a snob, but there was no comparison.

I forgot to make an ATM withdrawal on shore, so visited the ships casino, charged a few hundred against my room, played some craps, and cashed in. No, Euros were not available at the casino cage, so I went to the front desk, where I had to pay $1.44 for a Euro, and could relax knowing that what I had left over, they’d buy them back at a $1.29 rate. :mad: I did get a great idea, however, and at the end of the cruise instead of providing the fine staff with their tips via a charge to my ship’s account, I provided envelopes with cash tips, and it was a mix of Dollars and Euros. I think that was a real win/win solution.

This was also the day of our CC Meet & Mingle. This was my first M&M, and it was very nice. We had the pleasure of meeting several of the folks from our roll call, and saw then again later during the cruise. Not only were to crew & staff of the BOS friendly, so were our fellow passengers.

Venice

There was a BBQ on deck for lunch the day we approached Venice, and I’m so glad. We had a tasty burger and then grabbed a few feet along the rail of the pool desk. Opera music was playing from the ships PA. First an island with a beach, and then a park, and then, WOW! VENICE. It appeared to be a city that was floating on the water. Outstanding to say the least. I kept bouncing back and forth - from taking pictures to just drinking it all in. We sailed right past St. Marks square and the mouth of the Grand Canal.

We had purchased tickets for the ships shuttle to the St. Marks area, and were in one of the first shuttles of the day. I had secured free tickets to the Basilica at St. Mark’s (on line) for about 2:15 PM and it looked like we were actually early, but were admitted at the “group” entrance when we arrived. It was really quite impressive and very beautiful. Then we wandered in the direction of the Rialto Bridge. Again, very thankful that I had purchased a good map which showed the Vaporetto stops. Of course we got lost (after all it was Venice!) but at least had an idea as to where we were, and what direction to head, would find our way again in a minute, and had a wonderful time exploring the side streets. Bought Vaporetto tickets for 24 hours and took one from Rialto to the Accedemia stop which was near the Guggenheim Museum which our friends wanted to see. They went inside, while DW looked for Murano glass earrings and necklaces. As we always did when we split up, we agreed we’d meet back at a specific place at a specific time. I took off looking for interesting photo ops. After reconnecting, we took the Vaporetto (could not convenience anyone to try the Traghetto with me) to the Giglio stop. We decided it was time for our gondola ride, and while it was costly (€100 for 40 minutes), it was also very cool. Near the end we passed another gondola where they had hired a singer. He was very good, and we had a small sample of that experience as well. From there our friends decided to take the shuttle back to the ship, and we headed toward the train station as DW wanted to show me the hotel she stayed at on her visit some years back.

After a lengthy wait, the Vaporetto we wanted arrived, and we cruised the entire length of the Grand Canal. We found her hotel, and some more shops as she had yet to find exactly what she was seeking. Finally a small purchase, and then the real challenge – returning to our ship. We decided not to take a Vaporetto all the way back to St. Marks for a shuttle as we were sure we were a short walk from the BOS. We just had to figure out which route to take! Dusk was approaching. Well, we made it to the Piazza Roma, and there found a few locals who spoke just a little English (You’ve got to watch the use of the word ‘boat’ or ‘ship’ in Venice - “no not a water taxi, not a Vaporetto, no the cruise ship”). Almost glad that I had lost my cap earlier and bought a BOS cap, because we finally pointed to it to explain we were looking for the cruise ships! Anyway, we finally made it home safe and sound, although it was an adventure.

Day 2 in Venice.

Since we now knew how, we walked to Piazza Roma and grabbed the Vaperatoo to the old Jewish Ghetto. We had learned that the word Ghetto originated in Venice in the 1300s. We found the old Jewish quarter, and took the tour of the old synagogues that was offered. Regrettably the tour guide was as dry as the Venetian canals are wet. But it was interesting to see, an afterwards we found a café and did what we do best – we ate! Finally a choice other than Margarita Pizza. I had mine with sausage and mushrooms. Delicious. We grabbed the Vaporetto back to the St. Marks area, did a bit more shopping before grabbing a shuttle back to the ship. Back out on deck again as we sailed away. We’ll be back, Venice, as we intend to return to Italy and see much more that our short port visits afford.

That night was a masquerade dinner, and we chose that night to dine at Chops (compliments of our TA – thanks guys.) We all enjoyed our dinners very much.

Dubrovnik

By the time we got to Dubrovnik, we were pretty tired. We visited the old synagogue for a very short while and then our friends and I paid the $10 to walk the wall, while DW did some shopping. It was again very hot, and the ‘wall walk’ was taking much more time and energy than we wanted to put in, so at some point we decided to return to the square and meet up with DW. Glad we did it, but didn‘t feel the need to do more. Found a small café for a bite to eat, something to drink, and to rest our weary legs. Since this was where the neck tie was invented, I bought one as a gift for my step son – the new daddy.

Corfu

The four of us bought the RCI half day tour of Corfu for the afternoon. DW took the shuttle into town in the AM for some shopping and found the drop off point somewhat distant from the shops, and wisely turned right around and returned to the ship as she was not comfortable being alone in this section of town. At the far point of the tour, by the scenic area, we took the boat tour of the caves for a few extra Euros, and it was well worth it. Actually, it was in my personal opinion, the best part of the tour. The water was so clear, and the color was just beautiful.

At Sea

This was a fairly uneventful and restful day (much needed). My step son graduated from Michigan with a degree in Engineering, and has always been enamored with bridges, and had read of a bridge to be built across the Straight of Massena. So I was up on deck camera in hand to provide him with whatever shots I could, but it appears that nothing of substance was built yet. HOWEVER, shortly after that we passed a volcanic island that appeared to be venting. We happened to run into Kersie (our excellent head waiter) and he pointed it out to us with great enthusiasm. He said that they never see any activity, and he was so excited by this that when we asked what it was he stammered and said Mt. Vesuvius. Of course we all know that Vesuvius was by Pompeii. After some good natured ribbing, he composed himself and told us it was Stromboli.

Rome

For Rome, we had arranged for a private tour with Limo in Rome. We had a moment of concern when Claudio did not show up at the port at the appointed time. I called him on his cell, and he told me that Fabrizio would be our driver, that he was hung up at the entrance due to security checks, and would be along momentarily. Sure enough, in less than 5 minutes Fabrizio appeared in a Mercedes mini-van. A nice period of getting to know each other while we drove to Rome, and we fine tuned our itinerary.

We saw far too many sites to list here. Certainly everything our excellent TA had listed in the travelogue she had sent us, and everything on DWs list of “to go” places, and then some. Fabrizio had us buy our tickets to the Colosseum at what seemed to be an odd place, but it sure worked out. We bypassed all of the lines and got right in. And he was always waiting for us right where he said he would be.

The history of Rome is just staggering. So much that was so old, yet so well preserved, because it was so well constructed in the first place. When it was time for a lunch break, Fabrizio delivered us to a place where we could walk about a block and have a choice of several cafés. The one we chose was a minor disappointment. The food and the service were both sub-par. However, while waiting for our food, we did find a couple of small shops for gifts for the grandkids, so it all worked out in the end.

After lunch we were introduced to our private Vatican guide who escorted us in. In addition to the four of us, she also had two other Claudio Limo in Rome clients, who we recognized from our Meet & Mingle. And as we were splitting her time with them, the fee quoted for the private Vatican tour was cut in half. Our Vatican guide was our only true disappointment. The Vatican was very crowded, and there was a lot of background noise, and she did not adjust so we (the six of us) could hear her. Time after time we either asked her to turn and face us when she spoke, or to speak up, but she was very intent on looking at and talking to the item she was describing. Fortunately, there was so much to see, just having her usher us around worked out fine, but she was the only tour guide we had on the entire cruise that did not warrant a gratuity at the end. Needless to say, the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica with Michelangelo’s Pietà are just incredible. The sheer quantity of art work housed in, and on display at the museum is astonishing.

Of course, we could not leave Rome without a visit to the Trevi Fountain where we tossed a few coins, the Spanish Steps, and with one final gelato at the Piazza Nervona, it was time to head back to the ship.

Like our arrangement with AP Tours, Claudio had told me that he could not find peppermint Altoids in Italy so before leaving home we stopped by Costco and brought him some. He tried to meet us personally after our Vatican tour, but the timing was off. He picked up the Altoids and left two bottles of Chianti as a gift for us. I’m pleased to say I was able to bring them aboard, and they made it home in our checked luggage safely.

At Sea and the trip home

Our last day on any cruise is always sad, but we drew comfort in the fact that it had been an absolutely wonderful experience. Certainly our best cruise to date filled with many incredible memories. We also had a brand new granddaughter to go home and see. Lufthansa going home was just as wonderful as going over. We took this cruise for the itinerary, and that was everything we had hoped for, and more.

I’m afraid this report is much longer than I ever expected it to be. I tried to review everything I thought might be of interest to my fellow CC members, and hope I was able to return in some small measure the great information I received from others in doing my research for our cruise. All in all, as started above, it was a very successful trip, and I related the minor disappointments only so try to be balanced in my reporting. We had no major disappointment, and doubt that there is anything of substance we would change if we were to do it again.

Wishing you all smooth seas…:) :)

Terry

Thanks for such a wonderful review! I took this same cruise in 2004 and it was one of the best trips I've ever had - would love to do it again. Thanks for bringing back such wonderful memories. And congratulations on the new grandchild!!

Lynn

Terry, thanks so much for a fantastic review. We are doing a cruise in November on the Brilliance and visiting most of the same ports and even using a couple of the private tours you used.

Do you remember the name of the private guide you used in the Vatican that was not so good? We are also using Limo in Rome and would like to make sure we don't get the same person you had.

We are also using Ap in Naples. Any ideas that would be helpful would be really appreciated.

Thanks

Barbara:)

Barbara,

Thanks for your kind words. I’m pleased that you found it of value.

I can’t say that I recall the name of our guide at the Vatican. She was very knowledgeable, just lacking somewhat in her communication skills as a tour guide. When Fabrizo asked us how she was, we were polite, but told him candidly what the problems were. I think the odds of you getting her are pretty remote, and hopefully she will have improved by then anyway.

Regarding AP, I’d suggest you email Sarah at their office. She is really charming and a joy to work with. At first I tried to squeeze too much into our day, and she told me so. Then we worked together to come up with options, so it was a day that we planned together. We managed to get in Pompeii (2 full hours), Ravello for about 30-45 minutes, Amalfi (just drove through as I recall, but then stopped for some great photos, Positano (about an hour for a quick lunch), and Sorrento (which was a blur, as it was finally at a time where folks were awake back home and we had just had the grandbaby.) All I remember was a swig of limonchello, a bank of pay phones in the public square, a quick gelato and it was back in the van for a quick trip to the ferry dock!) We managed to get in Sorrento because with traffic the drive back to port is over an hour, but the ferry is maybe 30 minutes. Alberto actually lives up that way, so they reduced the fee by about the cost of the ferry ride, so it was a win/win solution.

Two final thoughts – having the maps I acquired in advance were a real big help. Showed Vaporetto routes & stops, and generally a big help for those ports where you don’t have a private guide. Second, don’t sweat the small stuff. We had lot of little minor issues, but overall, it was just a wonderful trip.

Our guide who mumbled will fade from memory shortly, but walking in the foot steps of Marco Polo, the narrow streets of the old gothic quarter in Barcelona, stepping over ruts made may Roman chariots in Pompeii, wandering around the Coliseum, the breath taking natural beauty of the Amalfi coast, and holding hands with my wife in a gondola going down the Grand Canal. Viewing the Pietà and David, sculpted by the hand of Michelangelo himself, and being high up on deck as we approached Venice – that incredible city that appeared to float on the sea - those are memories that will last a lifetime.

Enjoy :)

We will be on the same itinerary September 30th and are counting down the days. We have a very active roll call and I have provided them with a link to your review. It will just get us all the more excited by reading your wonderfully worded depiction of the highlights of your trip.

Can you tell me what nights were formal nights? We have heard there are three formal nights? Is that correct?

Nice review - we can't wait to sail 9/18 just a different itinerary.

We will be on the same itinerary September 30th and are counting down the days. We have a very active roll call and I have provided them with a link to your review. It will just get us all the more excited by reading your wonderfully worded depiction of the highlights of your trip.

 

Can you tell me what nights were formal nights? We have heard there are three formal nights? Is that correct?

We too will be on the same itinerary and thoroughly enjoyed your review. Thanks for taking the time to allow us to continue to dream of our trip.

Terry:

Wow, thank you soooooooo much!!!!!!!!!! So many helpful tips in each port. Where did you get the map with all of the detailed information about the Vaporetto stops? I think that is a must have! Does it also say how often they run, etc.?

Thank you so much for this amazing review. We are booking the Brilliance for next August with a very similiar itinerary.

Thanks for the great review... we did the same itinerary last summer.... your review brought back great memories... and we are back on the Brilliance next month ...can't wait.. :D

Can you tell me what nights were formal nights? We have heard there are three formal nights? Is that correct?

Three formal nights is correct. As best I recall, the formal nights were after he first at sea - following Naples, then again after Dubrovnilk and the last was the at sea between Corfu & Rome.

Terry:

Wow, thank you soooooooo much!!!!!!!!!! So many helpful tips in each port. Where did you get the map with all of the detailed information about the Vaporetto stops? I think that is a must have! Does it also say how often they run, etc.?

With the exception of the Florence map (which I got courtesy of the tourist bureau in Florence) I bought them all at Barnes & Noble which is a large book store here. Do you have them where you live? I spent a very enjoyable couple of hours on my day off just looking over all of the options. I actually bought 2 maps of Venice, each shows information on the "ACTV Vaporetti or waterbuses."

The routes and stops are listed, and a brief description on how to read the information provided, but no schedules.

One map is by Borch maps, and the other by Pocket-Pilot.

Thanks so much! I have the StreetWise version; must check it to see if it shows the routes as well!

Loved your review! Thanks! My question is about your air arrangement. Could you give me any details about your air, upgrade, etc? We are looking at flying to Europe for the first time next July. We have FF miles with United and would like to fly Business class with either United (looking forward to their new international business seats that lie flat) and/or Lufthansa. We would be flying from ORD to Venice, returning home from Rome.

What class did you book to get the upgrade with miles?

Did you call to book this?

How many miles did you have to use in addition to the price of the ticket?

How far ahead did you book?:confused:

Thanks,

Janet

No review can ever be too long for me. :) Great Job!

Thanks for the great review! I'm on the same sailing with Bunnybear and LeftyRN. Bunnybear and I, with two other couples are using Claudio in Rome also so I really appreciate hearing about your day with Fabrizio. Do you recall the name of the cafe in Rome?

how was your debark from ship to airport and wait time to check in and to gate?

Good question; we're curious about that as well! Also, what was the Masquerade dinner all about? When was the Deck party? Theme?

Thanks!

Loved your review! Thanks! My question is about your air arrangement. Could you give me any details about your air, upgrade, etc? We are looking at flying to Europe for the first time next July. We have FF miles with United and would like to fly Business class with either United (looking forward to their new international business seats that lie flat) and/or Lufthansa. We would be flying from ORD to Venice, returning home from Rome.

What class did you book to get the upgrade with miles?

Did you call to book this?

How many miles did you have to use in addition to the price of the ticket?

How far ahead did you book?:confused:

Thanks,

Janet

Hi Janet,

It’s so nice to see someone from our home state on line.

We also had UAL miles, so I called their Frequent Flyer desk. Told them we needed to get from ORD to BCN, and the dates we wanted. I did this just as soon as we had firmed up our decision to go (late last summer). She told me that they would use one of their “partners” and as such recommended against buying an economy ticket and using miles to upgrade. She told me that the way the systems work, they would not have access to the upgrade section until it was probably too late to get business class seats. So we proceeded in an attempt to get a pair of business class seats, which would be 80,000 miles per ticket.

We did not have enough miles to swing that, and after reviewing all the facts, she told us that we could pay ($$) to move 15,000 miles from my wife’s account to mine (I seem to recall that 15,000 a year is the limit, but they keep changing the rules). Still a few short of 160,000, we were able to buy (again for cash) the miles that we were short. I do remember that it seemed to take a long time for all of that to settle, and we were nervous that the flights we wanted might be gone by the time it all settled and we could act.

Finally, the miles we transferred and bought hit our FF account. I remember very distinctly the agent having a difficult time finding us flights that were acceptable. Much as I dislike anything but direct flights, I knew we might have to change planes once, but was not willing to accept changing planes more than that. She tried all sorts of combinations, but nothing seemed to work. Then, after about 45 minutes (you have to call when you are not stressed and can wait patiently) I asked her about the flights that our friends had booked. Lufthansa from ORD to Frankfort, and then on to BCN.

She was able to book both of the long haul flights business class, and one of the short flights, but the business class section for the other short flight was not opened at the time. I told her that it was OK, and we’d take what she had. She told me that if I called back in a month or two we might be able to get that one segment changed to business class. The first time I called, no luck, but the second time I tried, they said, sure, lots of business class opened up, and we got one.

All told, we spend about $7-800 to do this, but I later looked, and the seats we got cost several thousand (each) if purchased retail.

One last tip, Lufthansa uses different booking (locator) numbers that United. I called Lufthansa about 45 days prior to our departure, just to confirm everything (and I don't think we had seat assignments for one of the short flights). Anyway, he was able to find us in their system, and I noted their number, which came in handy when we checked it at the airport. (Never did get a written confirmation of our seat assignments, but everything worked out just fine.)

I hope that helps.

Thank you for taking the time to post such an informative review. I am going on the Celebrity Summit to the Med next year. I am excited and very nervous. I'm hoping some cruise mates will lead me in the right direction.:p

Awesome pictures!!! I'm glad you included a few captions so I knew what I was looking at. Thanks for sharing.:p

Hi Janet' date='

 

It’s so nice to see someone from our home state on line.

 

We also had UAL miles, so I called their Frequent Flyer desk. Told them we needed to get from ORD to BCN, and the dates we wanted. I did this just as soon as we had firmed up our decision to go (late last summer). She told me that they would use one of their “partners” and as such recommended against buying an economy ticket and using miles to upgrade. She told me that the way the systems work, they would not have access to the upgrade section until it was probably too late to get business class seats. So we proceeded in an attempt to get a pair of business class seats, which would be 80,000 miles per ticket.

 

We did not have enough miles to swing that, and after reviewing all the facts, she told us that we could pay ($$) to move 15,000 miles from my wife’s account to mine (I seem to recall that 15,000 a year is the limit, but they keep changing the rules). Still a few short of 160,000, we were able to buy (again for cash) the miles that we were short. I do remember that it seemed to take a long time for all of that to settle, and we were nervous that the flights we wanted might be gone by the time it all settled and we could act.

 

Finally, the miles we transferred and bought hit our FF account. I remember very distinctly the agent having a difficult time finding us flights that were acceptable. Much as I dislike anything but direct flights, I knew we might have to change planes once, but was not willing to accept changing planes more than that. She tried all sorts of combinations, but nothing seemed to work. Then, after about 45 minutes (you have to call when you are not stressed and can wait patiently) I asked her about the flights that our friends had booked. Lufthansa from ORD to Frankfort, and then on to BCN.

 

She was able to book both of the long haul flights business class, and one of the short flights, but the business class section for the other short flight was not opened at the time. I told her that it was OK, and we’d take what she had. She told me that if I called back in a month or two we might be able to get that one segment changed to business class. The first time I called, no luck, but the second time I tried, they said, sure, lots of business class opened up, and we got one.

 

All told, we spend about $7-800 to do this, but I later looked, and the seats we got cost several thousand (each) if purchased retail.

 

One last tip, Lufthansa uses different booking (locator) numbers that United. I called Lufthansa about 45 days prior to our departure, just to confirm everything (and I don't think we had seat assignments for one of the short flights). Anyway, he was able to find us in their system, and I noted their number, which came in handy when we checked it at the airport. (Never did get a written confirmation of our seat assignments, but everything worked out just fine.)

 

I hope that helps.[/quote']

 

That is exactly the information I was looking for! Thanks for taking the time to explain it all to me.

 

Janet

Thanks for the great review! I'm on the same sailing with Bunnybear and LeftyRN. Bunnybear and I, with two other couples are using Claudio in Rome also so I really appreciate hearing about your day with Fabrizio. Do you recall the name of the cafe in Rome?

I admit that I can’t recall the name of the café in Rome. It was just a little hole in the wall place, with a few tables out on the street. I do remember that it was directly across the street for a store that specialized in Pinocchio toys. I hope that helps.