Disney Mediterranean cruise Planning 2014

[DISNEY FANTASY]

I do think we need a Mediterranean cruise planning thread here to discuss the various cruises in 2014. Ports of call, taxes, like VAT, Embarkation Disembarkation, Airports, flights etc.

 

Ports of Call include these:-

 

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Gateway to the ancient wonders of Athens, this new port takes you to the cradle of western civilization and birthplace of democracy.

 

I have been to Athens before a few times, I am planning a private tour here details to follow.

 

https://www.athensbytaxi.com/privatetaxitoursfullday.html

 

Barcelona, Spain

This ancient and beautiful city serves as the home port of Disney Cruise Line in the Mediterranean.

 

Stayed here for a week before and done it seen it, we can discuss plans.

 

http://www.barcelona-airport.com/

http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/transport/barcelona-cruise-port.html

http://www.barcelonadaytours.com/

http://www.barcelonabusturistic.cat/en/home

 

Catania, Italy (Sicily)

A vibrant port city on the east coast of Sicily, Catania offers fun for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

 

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

This seaport serves as the gateway to the "Eternal City" of Rome and its ancient wonders, such as the Colosseum and Pantheon.

 

I have been here on cruise ships twice and Rome without a cruise before, we have a private tour details to follow.

 

http://www.bestourofitaly.com/

 

Corfu, Greece (Greek Isles)

An island retreat located midway between Greece and Italy, Corfu has long captured the hearts of travelers, artists and storytellers.

 

Love Corfu stayed there many times, my favorite places are the Town, Sidari, and Paleokastritsa where a bond film was shot,

 

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Breathtakingly beautiful, Dubrovnik is an ancient walled city on the coast of the Adriatic Sea and an exciting new port of call.

 

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

This coastal resort town offers some of the Aegean's most stunning beaches, active nightlife and is a gateway to the ruins of Ephesus.

 

I have been to Kusadasi and Ephesus before we have a private tour there.

 

http://www.************.biz/

 

Gibraltar, U.K.

This isle boasts exotic flora and precious fauna, and is a port paradise for nature-loving tourists.

 

I went there a year back on RCI great place! My cruise isnt going there.

 

Heraklion (Crete), Greece

The largest island in Greece, Crete was once the center of Minoan culture, the earliest recorded civilization in Europe.

 

I have stayed on Crete, my cruise doesnt go there but I love, The Palace of Knossos.

 

Ibiza, Spain

World-renowned for its beautiful beaches and sizzling nightlife, Ibiza, Spain is a cosmopolitan destination where you can relax and unwind or dance to your heart's content.

 

Katakolon, Greece

The sleepy port of Katakolon, Greece is the gateway to Olympia, where ancient Greeks honored Zeus with a series of athletic competitions–the Olympic Games.

 

I have been to Delfi in that area.

 

La Spezia (Florence, Pisa), Italy

A shopping and sightseeing mecca, this historic city is known for being the cradle of the Italian Renaissance.

 

Good news not a tender port anymore, done Florence and Pisa and Lucca from here, and have a private tour booked to Cinque Terre

 

https://www.papillonservice.com/tours-from-la-spezia-port.php

 

http://boxoffice-v2.opapisa.it/Turisti/

 

http://www.navigazionegolfodeipoeti.it/home.asp?lang=eng

 

Funchal (Madeira), Portugal

This picturesque port of call boasts pleasant weather year-round and has natural beauty and romance in abundance.

 

Malaga, Spain

A gem on Spain's Costa del Sol, Málaga is one of the oldest ports in the Mediterranean.

 

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is a stellar new port of call and one of the picturesque Greek islands of the Cyclades in the South Aegean Sea.

Naples (Pompeii), Italy

Naples is a city with a 2,500 year history, and one that offers immense romance and immersive culture.

 

We are going DIY here!!!

 

Palma, Mallorca (Spain)

The capital city of the Balearic Islands is a timeless destination known for endless sun and age-old sites steeped in history.

 

Stayed so many times in Majorca, love it been to Palma, on the train to Stoller, http://www.sollernet.com/trendesoller/en1.html, love Alcudia.

 

Rhodes, Greece (Greek Isles)

Take a journey into ancient history and Greek mythology on the island of Rhodes, Greece.

 

I have been to Rhodes so many times shame my cruise isnt going there, love love Lindos the place to go!! Once you have been there you will return!!!

 

Santorini, Greece*

With its rugged cliffs overlooking the bright blue waters of the Aegean Sea, the island of Santorini, Greece is an ideal place to savor soothing seascapes–and let your cares drift away.

 

Tenerife, Canary Islands

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a tropical destination with an extremely diverse landscape.

 

Valletta, Malta

This port has a history that dates back 7,000 years to the dawn of civilization, and still holds marvels that predate the pyramids of Egypt.

 

We have a private tour booked.

 

http://www.maltaonlineguide.com/about.html

 

Venice, Italy

From the Norman Palace to present-day decadences—like fine dining—the traditions and splendors in Sicily's capital city span centuries.

 

Not on our cruise but have stayed there for a week in the recent past.

 

Villefranche (Monte Carlo, Cannes, Nice), France*

This port is a leisure-lover's dream, with some of the loveliest views along the French Riviera.

 

Been three times before and will have a private tour this time.

 

http://www.kultours.fr/tourenuk.html

[DISNEY FANTASY]

Rhodes, Greece (Greek Isles)

Take a journey into ancient history and Greek mythology on the island of Rhodes, Greece.

 

I have to give you some photos of Rhodes and Lindos, Lindos is a must see, if your cruise goes to Rhodes please do arrange to go to Lindos.

 

Less than an hour by fast taxi and yes there fast, a bit too fast but do go to the town center. Bus just about an hour but crowded and like rush hour with a goat sitting next to you. Or car hire one nice scenic road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Rhodes town.

 

 

 

 

 

[hencoll]

You know, this will probably be moved to the Med Ports of Call boards.;) Those boards and posters are awesome and wealth of information. I've used it for my European sailings since our first Med cruise in 2006.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

You know, this will probably be moved to the Med Ports of Call boards.;) Those boards and posters are awesome and wealth of information. I've used it for my European sailings since our first Med cruise in 2006.

 

That would be disappointing as I thought it could cover everything not just ports if call. They tend to get lost there, DCL has interesting Med cruises next year.

 

And I want everyone who has a cruise to Rhodes to go to Lindos and ride a Disney Donkey to the acropolis.

[angelinaxox1]

Looking forward to the Disney Magic cruise to Italy and Greece. I have never been to Greece or Ephesus so I am most interested in those ports. My Fiancé has never been to any of Europe. I picked this itinerary because I thought he would love Rome and the Vatican and because I have always wanted to go to Greece and Ephesus. I am not sure about booking independent tours. On my three previous Europe cruises with Princess, my family booked with the cruiseline. So I will look and consider your links carefully. Thanks for posting. I also hope they don't move this thread as I would rather read it here.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

Looking forward to the Disney Magic cruise to Italy and Greece. I have never been to Greece or Ephesus so I am most interested in those ports. My Fiancé has never been to any of Europe. I picked this itinerary because I thought he would love Rome and the Vatican and because I have always wanted to go to Greece and Ephesus. I am not sure about booking independent tours. On my three previous Europe cruises with Princess, my family booked with the cruiseline. So I will look and consider your links carefully. Thanks for posting. I also hope they don't move this thread as I would rather read it here.

 

Well hopefully we can cover all DCL Med planning for 2014 and not just ports so hopefully will stay here.

 

I would say do research going DIY, it is more worth it price wise for a family of four, if you are just a couple DCL shore trips might be cheaper but less flexibility, you might be able to join up with others on your cruise, see the cruise meets thread.

 

Rome is one where a private tour is so good, we had a before hours guided tour of the Vatican before and our driver jumped lines at the colosseum and got us far closer to places like trivi fountains.

[angelinaxox1]

Thanks for the tips. Just looking at the pictures of the changes to the Magic that are being posted online. Looks great.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

Thanks for the tips. Just looking at the pictures of the changes to the Magic that are being posted online. Looks great.

 

Yes agree.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

Villefranche

 

So in this port which is a tender port where you use smaller boats from the cruise ship to port and do not walk off onto land, we will be going to,:- Antibes:

has the biggest yachting harbour in Europe, an Old Town with the most beautiful corners, one of the most colourful Provencal markets and the Picasso Museum. The third biggest city on the Côte d’Azur is surprisingly little touristy and has a long history to tell. We will do a guided walking tour around the city.

Continue the tour in the direction of Cannes around the Cape of Antibes. This peninsula is an enclave of the rich and famous who reside here all year long in marvelous palaces surrounded by stunning gardens.

 

Cannes:

This famous city with its wonderful position in the Bay of La Napoule is an attractive holiday resort in the summer and a meeting place of the international jet set in the winter. The capital of the Film festival not only seduces because of its enchanting sea promenade and the marvelous facades of its luxury Hotels but also because of the charm of the alleys of its old town and its most beautiful Market hall. The large number of Luxury Boutiques and exclusive Restaurants make Cannes a paradise for shoppers and gourmets.

 

Grasse:

The capital of perfume lies wonderfully embedded in the beautiful back-country of Cannes and offers a stunning view over the Mediterranean. All year round there is a scent of perfume in the air. You will have the chance to visit one of the oldest perfume-factories of the region.

 

 

In this area most people go to,

 

 

Nice:

„Nissa la Bella“ as the city was named in the 19th century is the capital of the Côte d’Azur. Many wealthy tourists from all over Europe settled here during the winter months of the Belle Epoque. Discover the baroque Old Town with its picturesque narrow alleys and its colorful flower and vegetable market , try some of the local specialties like Socca or Pissaladière and learn everything about this very Italianate city. Drive along the Promenade des Anglais, see the Hotel Negresco and the Russian Church which bear witness to the luxury of the bygone days.

 

Monaco:

The Principality and the dynasty of the family of Grimaldi. Learn how the little medieval village on the Rock has turned into a financial hub. The Palace, the Casino of Monte Carlo, the Hotel de Paris and the Café de Paris, the yacht harbor and the racetrack of the Grand Prix tell us the history of this unique development.

 

 

A problem in Monaco is it's very small crowded and limited parking so on coach tours you can get dropped off in a coach part quite a way away.

 

You can get a train from port to Monaco it's a small walk but a regular service.

 

St. Paul:

The medieval village with its well preserved ramparts is already visible from far away. In the early 20th century this former military stronghold has become the meeting place of famous artists and is today among the most visited villages in France. In its many picturesque narrow alleys you find art galleries and high-class boutiques.

 

Eze:

The small hill-village located between Nice and Monaco towers over the Mediterranean Sea and offers a great view on the French Riviera. Steep paths, winding alleys and picturesque corners make Eze one of the most beautiful “eagle-nests” of this region. The best view you can get from the Exotic Garden on top of the village (small entrance fee). You will be enchanted by this breathtaking place.

 

 

Do not get ripped off in a perfume factory tour, some are basically a hard sell and you may feel obliged to buy.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

La Spetzia.

 

Formally a tender port most cruises now dock but it's a shuttle to port entrance.

 

We are going to the Cinque Terre

 

Our tour says:-

 

 

Seemingly suspended between sea and sky, Cinque Terre is sure to be a tour you will never forget. Set against lush green hills rising dramatically from the sea, the “Five Lands” will charm you with their cheery colours and the feel of old world fishing villages, and the surrounding terrain will take your breath away.

 

 

Hikers and nature enthusiasts will be glad to know that Parco ****onale delle Cinque Terre is a Nature Sanctuary, as well as a Unesco World Environmental and Cultural Heritage site.

 

In Cinque Terre there are no cars and no noise; nature steals the scene!

 

Typical itinerary:

 

First stop Portovenere (25 min from La Spezia)

Take the ferry to Riomaggiore

Walk from Riomaggiore to Manarola via the famous Via dell’Amore

Take the ferry from Manarola to Monterosso*

Have lunch

Drive along the panoramic hilltop road

Cinque Terre boasts many fine restaurants and some of the best seafood in the world. The region is also known for its refreshing white wine that you should be sure to sample.

 

As a special bonus (only available on tours of Cinque Terre starting from La Spezia), we can include a visit to the town of Sarzana, which was an important military post during the Middle Ages. Its impeccably preserved fortress, the Fortezza di Sarzanella, will interest those with a fascination for fortifications or a love of history. The white marble cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is also noteworthy, built between the 13th and 15th C in the Romanesque and Gothic styles, and containing a relic of the blood of Christ as well the oldest known painted crucifix in Italy, the Cross of Maestro Guglielmo, dating from 1138.

 

Of all our tours, this one is most frequently deemed “absolutely unforgettable” by clients.

 

 

 

We highly recommend you take the ferry (Apr-Oct) to travel between the villages. The view from the sea is spectacular and not to be missed. (Out of season or in rough weather there is a local train to take you from village to village.) The ferry (one way with stops) costs 16 Euro per person.

 

The Via dell’Amore (translation not necessary!) is flat and suitable for anyone of average mobility. It takes about 20 minutes to walk and there is an entrance fee of 5 Euro per person (cash only).

 

*With regard to the landslides of October 2011, the clean up of Monterosso is coming along; its inclusion is subject to its condition on the day of your tour. We doubt that Vernazza will be ready for visitors in 2012. Even if we cannot visit all the villages, you will still enjoy the Cinque Terre area to the fullest, and will be able to go at a relaxed pace with ample time to appreciate each stop.

 

 

Also from here you can do tours to :-

 

 

 

Florence & Pisa we have done this before but a very long drive and Florence is very crowded.

 

Lucca, Pisa & the Grotta del Vento, Lucca is a overly old town nice to walk around.

 

Portofino & Portovenere

 

Cooking Class in Chianti

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Rome.

 

So much to do, so little time, private tours are the thing to do here, we did this before from the Disney Magic and we are doing this again next year.

 

 

Shore tour of Rome from Civitavecchia dock

 

We were off promptly before and in our van in seconds way faster than tour buses, we found for our family if four it was the same price to go on our own instead of buying four DCL seats on a tour bus, but also we had our own tour guide, are own entry skipping lines at the important places, we didn't go to a tourist lunch where good is poor snd restrooms have a hour wait, we went local and eat local. Shore tour of Rome from Civitavecchia dock

 

Duration: 9 hours

 

This is our booked tour, Rated: Most popoular cruisers’ combination tour

 

Pick up 8am in front of the ship, our driver has your name on a sign

Ride to Rome centre, 1hour and 15 minutes on a Mercedes Vehicle A/C

Stop to the Colosseum, visit inside level of difficulty "moderate" or just from the outside

Circus Maximus and the Chariot Races

Overview of Palatine Hill, the Palace of the Roman Emperors

Overview of the Roman Forum

Michelangelo Square and the City Hall

Venice Square and the monumental Wedding Cake

The Trevi Fountain

The Spanish Steps

The Pantheon

Lunch time*enjoy some italian genuine products, no tourist traps!

Navona Square and its great three fountains

Vatican Museums* with a private guide or tickets only level of difficulty "moderate" wheelchair available

Stop to the Gianicolo Hill, a fantastic terrace that overlooks the city

Gelato time (any time while on tour)

Leave the city before the big Cruise Buses do it so that it is impossible to miss the ship

Back to the ship by 5pm

 

Skip wait lines, we buy your tickets

 

*Admissions to the Colosseum cost 14 euros each and you skip the line

*Admissions to the Vatican cost 20 euros each and you skip the line

*English speaking guide to the Vatican costs 120 euros total (2hours) and it is recommended because is informative, entertaining, knows all the shortcuts and you do not get lost!

*Lunch is not included in the price for the vehicle, you can decide to enjoy a quick sandwich on the way or to stop to a restaurant where locals go and relax approximately 45 minutes

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Athens

 

This gives an idea of options here.

 

We will do tour 3 this isn't offered at all by DCL.

 

We have been to Athens many times before in summer it's hot hot hot, great place and too much to see, this isn't the place for a beach as local ones are poor.

 

TOUR 1: ATHENS

 

includes a visit to: The Acropolis (where you will see the temple of Parthenon which is dedicated to Athena Parthenos, Propylea which is the monumental entrance to the sacred area, the temple of Athena Nike which is dedicated to Athena-Apteros Nike, the temple Erechtheion which is dedicated to Athena Polias, the Cariatides, Herodion theater, the ruins of the Theater of Dionysus and finally Areopagus [Mars Hill]), The New Acropolis Museum*, The Temple of Zeus (which is the largest ancient temple in Greece in the Corinthian order), The Panathenaic Stadium (also known as The Kallimarmaro; the original stadium built in the 1863 for the first modern Olympic games in 1896), The Hill of Lycabettous, The Old Palace, The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier in front of The Parliament and The Changing of The Guards, The Plaka (which is Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. It is stone-paved, with narrow streets, and is full of gyros places, tavernas and souvenir shops) for lunch, and finally The Greek Agora (which was the civic, religious and commercial centers of the Athenian life set with appropriate buidings like the Stoa of Attalus [now, since its restoration, is used as a Museum housing interesting findings] and the Temple of Hephaistus), and The Roman Agora (where the Tower of Winds stands [which is an octagonal pentelic marble clocktower]).

 

* Please note that The New Acropolis Museum is closed on Mondays so it is replaced by The National Archaeological Museum (which is the largest museum in Greece and one of the world's great museums with more than 20,000 exhibits).

 

TOUR 2: ATHENS & CAPE SOUNION

 

includes a visit to: The Acropolis (where you will see the temple of Parthenon which is dedicated to Athena Parthenos, Propylea which is the monumental entrance to the sacred area, the temple of Athena Nike which is dedicated to Athena-Apteros Nike, the temple Erechtheion which is dedicated to Athena Polias, the Cariatides, Herodion theater, the ruins of the Theater of Dionysus and finally Areopagus [Mars Hill]), The New Acropolis Museum*, and finally Cape Sounion which includes a wonderful drive along the scenic coastal road of the Saronic Gulf passing through some of Athens most beautiful suburbs (Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza). In Cape Sounion you will visit The Temple of Poseidon [5th century B.C] with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the world (on a clear day you can see at least seven islands) and you will have lunch or dinner by the sea.

 

* Please note that The New Acropolis Museum is closed on Mondays so it is replaced by The Temple of Zeus (which is the largest ancient temple in Greece in the Corinthian order), The Panathenaic Stadium (also known as The Kallimarmaro; the original stadium built in the 1863 for the first modern Olympic games in 1896), The Old Palace, The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier in front of The Parliament and The Changing of The Guards.

 

TOUR 3: ATHENS & ANCIENT CORINTH

 

we will basically visit Ancient Corinth (where you can see the Long Walls that begin at the summit of Acro-Corinth and descend all the way to Lechaion, the artificial harbour on the Corinthian Gulf, the Agora, the Dorian Temple of Appollo [6th c. BC with 1st c. AD restorations], the museum which contains mosaic floors, Mycenaean and Corinthian pottery, terra cotta sphinxes, statues of two supernatural beings, relief plaques, the Roman head of the goddess Tyche and small objects of various kinds, and the Bima where St Paul preached), and The Canal (which is about 6 km long and connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea; its width upon completion was 25 meters, and 8 meters deep) in the morning, have lunch in The Plaka (which is Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. It is stone-paved, with narrow streets, and is full of gyros places, tavernas and souvenir shops), and finish up with The Acropolis (where you will see the temple of Parthenon which is dedicated to Athena Parthenos, Propylea which is the monumental entrance to the sacred area, the temple of Athena Nike which is dedicated to Athena-Apteros Nike, the temple Erechtheion which is dedicated to Athena Polias, the Cariatides, Herodion theater, the ruins of the Theater of Dionysus and finally Areopagus [Mars Hill]) and The New Acropolis Museum* (if time allows).

 

* Please note that The New Acropolis Museum is closed on Mondays so it is replaced by The Temple of Zeus (which is the largest ancient temple in Greece in the Corinthian order), The Panathenaic Stadium (also known as The Kallimarmaro; the original stadium built in the 1863 for the first modern Olympic games in 1896), The Old Palace, The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier in front of The Parliament and The Changing of The Guards.

 

TOUR 4: COASTAL TOUR (CAPE SOUNION, MARATHON, MARATHON LAKE, RAMNOUS)

 

includes: a wonderful drive along the scenic coastal road of the Saronic Gulf passing through some of Athens most beautiful suburbs (Glyfada, Lake of Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza). In Cape Sounion you will visit The Temple of Poseidon [5th century B.C] with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the world (on a clear day you can see at least seven islands) and you will have lunch or dinner by the sea. Then follows The Burial Ground which was raised in honor of the Athenian Warriors who fell in the battle of the Marathon in 490 B.C., The Museum, The Marathon Lake Reservoir, with the allmarble dam, which supplies Athens with water (there is a cafeteria near the Marathon lake where you can have a coffee break) and finally The Temple of Nemesis [5th century B.C] in Ramnous which was designed by the same architect who built the Temple of Hephaestus [Theseion] and that of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.

 

TOUR 5: ANCIENT CORINTH, CANAL, MYCENAE, NAFPLION, THE THEATER OF EPIDAURUS

 

includes a visit to: Ancient Corinth (where you can see the Long Walls that begin at the summit of Acro-Corinth and descend all the way to Lechaion, the artificial harbour on the Corinthian Gulf, the Agora, the Dorian Temple of Appollo [6th c. BC with 1st c. AD restorations], the museum which contains mosaic floors, Mycenaean and Corinthian pottery, terra cotta sphinxes, statues of two supernatural beings, relief plaques, the Roman head of the goddess Tyche and small objects of various kinds, and the Bima where St Paul preached), Canal (which is about 6 km long and connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea; its width upon completion was 25 meters, and 8 meters deep), Mycenae (where you will see the Cyclopean Walls, the Grave Circle A with 6 royal tombs, courtiers' houses, sanctuaries, the Grave Circle B with 14 royal tombs and 12 tombs of private citizens, the Treasure of Atreus also known as the beehive tomb of Agamemnon, and the Lions Gate), Nafplion (where you will climb up the 999 steps to the Venetian fortress of Palamidi crowning the city, wander around the battlements of Acronafplia and pop over to the fortified island, Bourtzi), and finally The Theater of Epidaurus (which is known for its exceptional acoustics, which permit almost perfect intelligibility of unamplified spoken word from the proscenium or skene to all 15,000 speactators, regardless of their seating).

 

TOUR 6: ANCIENT CORINTH, CANAL, NEMEA, MYCENAE, NAFPLION

 

includes a visit to: Ancient Corinth (where you can see the Long Walls that begin at the summit of Acro-Corinth and descend all the way to Lechaion, the artificial harbour on the Corinthian Gulf, the Agora, the Dorian Temple of Appollo [6th c. BC with 1st c. AD restorations], the museum which contains mosaic floors, Mycenaean and Corinthian pottery, terra cotta sphinxes, statues of two supernatural beings, relief plaques, the Roman head of the goddess Tyche and small objects of various kinds, and the Bima where St Paul preached), Canal (which is about 6 km long and connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea; its width upon completion was 25 meters, and 8 meters deep), Nemea (wineries and wine tasting), Mycenae (where you will see the Cyclopean Walls, the Grave Circle A with 6 royal tombs, courtiers' houses, sanctuaries, the Grave Circle B with 14 royal tombs and 12 tombs of private citizens, the Treasure of Atreus also known as the beehive tomb of Agamemnon, and the Lion Gates), and finally Nafplion (where you will climb up the 999 steps to the Venetian fortress of Palamidi crowning the city, wander around the battlements of Acronafplia and pop over to the fortified island, Bourtzi),

 

TOUR 7: DELPHI & THE MONASTERY OF OSIOUS LUCAS

 

includes a visit to: The Famous Sanctuary of Delphi (which was the site of the Delphic Oracle, the most important oracle in the Classical Greek world), and The Monastery of Osious Lucas (In the year 946 AC Osious Loukas first built his cell, a small church in which to pray. He also made a beautiful garden in which he grew his vegetables. He did not, however, manage to finish it. He died in February 7, 953 AC at the age of 56. The monastery is famous for its wall paintings. Those paintings have been cleaned and restored recently and they exhibit special interest).

 

TOUR 8: HIKING IN LOUSIOS GORGE

 

In Lousios Gorge (a five kilometer gorge with several hiking trails, and a very good bridge crossing Lousios river) you can walk from one village to another folowing a dirt road through the mountains in beautiful scenery that even has some small waterfalls. The Lousios river is where Zeus used to bath himself, in the spectacular densely vegetated gorge and in the river’s crystal clear waters.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

Kusadasi,

 

Well IMHO there is only one thing to do here the must see Ephesus, I have been there before and want to go again this gives an idea of our plans and what you could do. Again it's hot hot hot.

 

 

Visit to Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, The House of Virgin Mary, The Church of Saint John and the ruins of the Temple of Artemis. Within Ephesus you will be seeing Harbour Street, theatre, the Marble Street, Celcius Library, the gate of Mihridates and Mazues, Commercial Agora, latrina, Hadrian Temple, the Scolastica Baths, Trajan Fountain, Curetes Street, Polio Fountain, Memnius Monument, the Temple of Domitian, the Prytaneion, Odeon and the State Agora.

At this full day Deluxe Ephesus tour, your guide welcomes you at the exit of the customs to accompany you to your van that is at the parking lot. Cooled soft drinks and appetizers are waiting for you in your van. During a 20 minute ride to Ephesus, your guide gives you a brief info about the area and about the country. On the halfway of your visits, your lunch break is just on time to get refreshed for the rest of the day. A delicious lunch at the authentic restaurant enriched with a bottle of local wine or any kind of local drinks you like to have. Lunch starts with delicious homemade Turkish mezes (appetizers) cooked with olive oil. You may choose your main course among kebab, fish and vegetarian options. Fresh fruits or dessert will be served as a last.

 

This tour requires minimum 1,5 hours walking in Ephesus and minimum 30 minutes walking in other sites. Comfortable shoes, hat and camera are adviced.

 

We have booked a guide.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

Disney gives you a cruise port to town shuttle here and also you can rent a car across the street.

 

The guide below shows how easy everything is here.

 

 

Mykonos is a “picture perfect” island town; ideal to explore on your own. You don't need a tour guide. No need to hurry; take your time walking around, exploring the narrow streets, visiting shops, and taking postcard photos. Visit the windmills and keep an eye out for Pétros the famous Pelican. Relax and enjoy lunch, one of the special Greek coffees, or drinks at a restaurant overlooking the beaches and boats in the harbor.

It's very pedestrian friendly. The marble walkways are flat

with no steps to climb except for occasional steps at

entrances to buildings. The distance you'll be walking is

short, so you shouldn't get tired. Other than an occasional taxi or scooter, the streets are for pedestrians.

The island is spotless. All buildings are well maintained with the only color of paint on the island, white, except for trim paint on buildings and a few deep blue or red roofs. With all that bright white and with clear, blue skies, sunglasses are a must. You might also want a hat.

The official website describes the Mykonos experience and invites visitors:

Mykonos is an opportunity to live unforgettable moments on an island made by Gods for people because no man could create something so unique. Enjoy the sea, the sky, the sun, the hospitality, the fun, the harmony, and the charm. It's full of golden beaches and crystal waters The white color, the stone and the scattered mountains and natural elements are vivid and strong, filling you, guiding you in new sensations.

You walk and think that you know everybody. You wave and they wave back. Everything is simple, familiar, hospitable. A warm and relaxing atmosphere. Hospitality and a hug are something you can take with you and carry it forever. The feeling of getting lost in the alleys is fascinating and the exit to the seashore is where we end our walk, with a glass of ouzo and the view of the boats.

You can experience everything you want, as much as you want it. Everything is nearby, just beside you, you only make the choice. You simply choose to come to Mykonos.

 

 

 

http://www.tomsportguides.com/Mykonos-08-01-2011.pdf

 

 

http://www.mykonos-rent-a-car.gr/english/

[DISNEY FANTASY]

Malta,

 

Again a private tour in our last port of call.

 

 

 

http://www.maltaonlineguide.com/about.html

 

Malta is the largest of a group of islands measuring only 246 km. Geographically it lies at the heart of the Mediterranean sea, with Sicily some 97 km. to the North, Tripoli 355 km. to the South and Tunisia 323 km. to the West. Hence Malta practically lies at the crossroads between continents. With a population of 400,000, inhabiting a total area of 320 sq. km., the islands are the most densely populated in Europe.

 

For its very strategic position Malta has been subject to a succession of rulers, who all made an impact on the country and the language as we know it today. The Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Arabs and the Spanish all ruled the island for varying lengths of time. In 1530 King Charles V of Aragon offered the islands to the Knights of St. John who yielded to Napoleon in 1798. In 1800 the Maltese turned to Britain for protection and British domination was sealed under the treaty of Paris in 1914 and the islands remained a colony till acquiring Independence in 1964. In 1974 Malta became a Republic and more recently, in 2004, it obtained European membership.

 

The islands have been termed the open air museum of the Mediterranean, for their high concentration of cultural, historical and megalithic sites. Malta's prehistoric temples are the oldest free-standing buildings, being a thousand years older than the Pyramids in Egypt.

 

 

Here are some comprehensive interesting locations. Your tour can be anything from the proposed sites or those of your preference. As I will be following your programme you can change the itinerary at any time, will be happy to advise on how much can be covered within the available time frame. A normal day tour lasts 8 hours.

 

What to see on Malta:

 

Attard, Balzan and Lija are little old villages which are not normal tourist destinations. A strong sense of neighbourliness dominates and a relaxed way of life like we can hardly remember.

 

Mdina is a jewel of a Medieval walled town today known as the “silent city”. Here a walking tour, down its secretive narrow winding streets, will lead you to the city's battlements, from where a stunning panoramic view.

 

A drive through Boschetto Gardens, typically Mediterranean gardens with their citrus orchards, reveals Verdala Palace, a 16th Century fortified hunting lodge, the Grand Master's getaway.

 

A short distance away are the Dingli Cliffs, a sheer drop into the sea, the cliffs revealing the island's geological formation. This is the location where the troglodytes lived until fairly recently. The mysterious cart ruts too can be viewed here.

 

The Ta’ Qali Crafts village is also close by, just the place to watch glass blowing and silver filigree being made. The variety of glass items is endless, highly imaginative, and bursting with colour, the filigree on the other hand attractive for its delicate and yet intricate design.

 

On Malta distances are only short, and in no time one can be in the country side, driving past the Roman Baths for a view of Golden Bay from above. St Paul's Bay is a typical old-world Mediterranean fishing village with its views of St. Paul's islands and the rugged shoreline beyond, crowning which, Selmun Palace. This can be followed by a drive through the picturesque St. Julian's Bay, still used by fishermen and lined with bougainvillea-clad cafés and restaurants, and on through Sliema, Malta's main coastal resort town. This runs into Ta' Xbiex, a stretch of elegant early 20th century homes, enjoying views of the fortifications of Valletta across.

 

Valletta

Valletta is a World Heritage City, a showcase of Baroque architecture, home to several Auberges, the residences for the different ethnic groups of the sovereign and military Order of St. John, by whom the city was built.

 

Valletta is easy to explore on foot. Here no house was to have a garden, so the Knights planned three open spaces, one of them The Upper Barracca gardens, situated on high grounds, and affording the most amazing view of the Grand Harbour and the three cities across. This is where the Great Siege was fought and won in the summer of 1565.

 

A short walk down Merchants street takes you past two handsome Auberges, bringing you to St. John’s co-Cathedral, the Conventual church of the Order, externally austere but impressive from the inside. Its lavish baroque interior is proof of the Knights’ appreciation and patronage of the arts. The Oratory houses one of Europe’s most famous art works, Caravaggio’s ‘Beheading of St. John’, the only work the artist ever signed. If you have not fully quenched your thirst for the arts – more wonders can be viewed in the museum upstairs.

 

The entrance fee for the Cathedral is 6 /4.50 /3.50 Euros for adults /seniors /students respectively.

[moki'smommy]

We did 24 nights on the Magic in 2013. Not our first Med cruise, but first for many of the new ports.

 

 

Our favorites:

Ephesus--this is a must. The old city (ruins) are amazing. The tour also did a couple of other stops, but the old city was the highlight. It included the terrace houses, etc. as listed above. Don't miss this one. It is hot and a lot of walking.

 

Kusadasi--we did a private tour arranged thru our TA. Another amazing port and one I'd happily return to. EASY to do if you just want to get off the ship and walk around, and friendly. We saw a carpet making shop, a couple museums, had lunch at a manor house, etc. as well as having time on our own. Excellent guide!

 

Croatia--lovely, friendly, easy port. There was a DCL bus from the port to the old walled city (free). No need for an excursion here if your plan is to see the city, walk the walls, etc. You can do this easily on your own.

 

Lesser lights"

Athens--the scaffolding rather detracted from the Acropolis. And we would have happily contributed to the economy, but our tour didn't allow any real "on our own" time. This was booked thru DCL. Technically we had 45 minutes, but DD wanted to see the theater AND we were told it was a 25 minute walk down the hill. This means 20 minutes on our own and we chose the theater over shopping.

 

Delos (Greece) Maybe it has just been too many ruins in too many days, but this came across as "more of the same." Terrible guide (George). Repeated things 8 times right in a row! This was booked thru DCL. I wouldn't do it again.

[DISNEY FANTASY]

We did 24 nights on the Magic in 2013. Not our first Med cruise' date=' but first for many of the new ports.

 

 

Our favorites:

Ephesus--this is a must. The old city (ruins) are amazing. The tour also did a couple of other stops, but the old city was the highlight. It included the terrace houses, etc. as listed above. Don't miss this one. It is hot and a lot of walking.

 

Kusadasi--we did a private tour arranged thru our TA. Another amazing port and one I'd happily return to. EASY to do if you just want to get off the ship and walk around, and friendly. We saw a carpet making shop, a couple museums, had lunch at a manor house, etc. as well as having time on our own. Excellent guide!

 

Croatia--lovely, friendly, easy port. There was a DCL bus from the port to the old walled city (free). No need for an excursion here if your plan is to see the city, walk the walls, etc. You can do this easily on your own.

 

Lesser lights"

Athens--the scaffolding rather detracted from the Acropolis. And we would have happily contributed to the economy, but our tour didn't allow any real "on our own" time. This was booked thru DCL. Technically we had 45 minutes, but DD wanted to see the theater AND we were told it was a 25 minute walk down the hill. This means 20 minutes on our own and we chose the theater over shopping.

 

Delos (Greece) Maybe it has just been too many ruins in too many days, but this came across as "more of the same." Terrible guide (George). Repeated things 8 times right in a row! This was booked thru DCL. I wouldn't do it again.[/quote']

 

Interesting..

 

I also think Delos is over doing it so thats why my Mykonos day is a light day DIY ad hoc.