CruisePlus' much loved Kelly is back from her month-long Mediterranean tour! While she was away, she spread envy throughout the office with her blog. While we suffered through snow storms and cold snaps, our lovely Kelly was exploring Casablanca, touring through Rome and hanging with the Greek Gods in Athens! If you are thinking of touring the Mediterranean or just want to live vicariously through her experiences, have a read through for some tips and info! - Also, you'll notice CruisePlus' premier traveller WINSTON went off wandering to Europe again (his last trip being in September!). For those who don't know Winston, he's the cheeky monkey modeling in many of the pictures featured in this blog!

Day 1 – January 30, 2011

Thank you for joining us on our excellent European adventure.  My name is Kelly Finnegan and I have been with the CruisePlus team  7 years this April.  I understand this blogging thing is a great way to share and stay in touch with family & friends old and new so I promise to give it a good try for a first timer.

 I am travelling with my brother-in-law Harry (aka Guy) and our trusty mascot “Winston” who those in the office have adopted as a loyal companion on their travels.  This is not Winston’s first trip to some of these ports but definitely a first for Guy & I!  Guy and Winston are becoming fast friends.

This is Guy and Winston departing Vancouver Island on BC Ferries for the Mainland to the Sandman Inn Vancouver Airport.  We’ll be staying here for one night and flying out after dinner tomorrow on British Airways.

Day 2 – January 31, 2011

It was sooo nice to sleep in today!  We had time for a dip in the pool and the hotel allowed us to have late check out at 3 pm (a great tip from one on my wonderful clients).  We had a great brunch at Moxies which is right in the Sandman Hotel and add the courtesy shuttle to the airport and we’ve started out just right!

Day 2-3 or???  Hey we’ve lost some time here – Guy has decided to wear two watches, one for Vancouver time and one for Europe – our flight on British Airways couldn’t have been better.   I must fly international again as the extras were unbelievable – not only did we have one free checked bag, there was a little package with warm socks (yes lovely grey colored socks for all), an eye mask, headsets with free movies, a blanket, a pillow, then a full dinner with unlimited wine & beer and finally a toothbrush – forget domestic – let’s do international!  After a 9 hour flight to London and another 2 hours to Barcelona we had finally arrived at our destination.  The airport is modern and easy to navigate and thank the good Lord, our bags have arrived too!

We took a taxi from the airport which cost only 25 Euros including a tip.  It was 8:30 pm so a quick snack from the local Chinese place across the street  from our Hotel (Gran Barcelo in the Gothic Quarter) .  You’re probably going to hear this a lot from me but - awesome it’s all I can say.  I have only seen 1 short block of the city and am already wowed beyond words.  Guy and Winston are out like lights but I took 20 minutes just to find out what is going on up the street.  Apparently we are one half block from the City Government square and I learned that there is about 4 peaceful protests per week.  (I saw two while I was there).  Off to bed finally – up 24 hours straight no so much too good.

February 2-3 – this morning hasn’t disappointed.  We walked the streets of the old Gothic Quarter and down to the waterfront and we can’t believe our eyes.  This amazing city is filled with sites we couldn’t have imagined.  Every home, shop or restaurant has a unique story and the shear age of this city mixed with the everyday business and life going by just keeps smiles constantly on our faces.   We’ve even stopped to appreciate the doors and windows on the narrow streets just because we can.  Unfortunately we have a little camera incident and I wasn’t able to get the pictures I wanted but we’ll be back here in 9 days and I’ll try to show you want I mean then - awesome.  The food, the sites, the people (whom Guy notices to be very fit and all the women very beautiful).  We also got a chance to try the” hop on hop off bus” which tours this diverse city and you can come and go as you please until 7 pm at night.  We bargained for t-shirts and strolled the market on Las Rambla and just took it all in.   Here is a few pictures because I just can’t tell you it all … Guy thinks that Gaudi fellow builds wobbly houses … here is what I mean:

Can it get any better?  Our love to all – I am sure we’ll be missing you all real soon!

February  4, 2011                             

Hello NCL Jade!  Well she is a beauty – originally the Pride of Hawaii, a little oddly dressed for Europe, with the Hawaii theme,  she’ll be our home for the next 21 nights.  Our cabin is a good size with a little window and our first meal (first of too many) was fabulous.  They have exceeded my expectations already and the fact there will be no cooking and cleaning (by me) for the next 3 weeks, is keeping that smile firmly on my face.  My travelling partners are also doing super good.  Guy has already found the shops and is happily decked out in the NCL logo hat and shirt and rarin’ to go.  For the next 24 hours we’ll be finding our way around and enjoying the ship and a wonderful, relaxing day at sea tomorrow. 

February 5:  Weather is fine, seas are calm and all is right in our world – hope yours too – sorry  but we’re off to the show (last night’s performance was spectacular) and I will be coming home with a new thought or two on Free style cruising I am sure.  One interesting thing though is that there is no pressure about anything, no dress code just might be better than I imagined.  We are looking forward to exciting day in our first port tomorrow of Casablanca … bye for now … 

February 6 – Casablanca, Morocco:

All I knew of Casablanca was the famous movie of the same name where Humphrey Bogart brought the intrigue and mystery of this city to the big screen.  An American couple run the famous “Sam’s Restaurant” which I am saddened to say is just a remake.   Thankfully that was my only disappointment.  We started our trek by heading off the ship to enjoy the free bus transfer to the central market.  However, a very nice taxi driver changed our minds and we were whisked away (truly) in a tiny little cab, myself cowering in the back seat (afraid for my life) and Guy riding shotgun with white knuckles and the biggest grin you’d ever want to see.  I have driven in taxis in a lot for foreign ports but this was amazing.  I finally began to appreciate that this might be the politest crazy driver situation ever and went with the flow.  Casablanca is very cosmopolitan with modern high rises towering over the oldest city buildings but I could still capture some of that mystery I was hoping for.  So many people – so many differences.  Our first stop was Hassan II Mosque in Old Medina.  I was told that it took more than 30,000 workers just 6 years to complete:

Here is Guy and our driver “Mohammed” (you guessed it!), whatever place you found to take a picture, the Mosque was looming.  We actually found a Roman Catholic Church “Sacre Coeur Cathedral` built in 1930 but it was now a picture gallery for local artists - our driver insisted it was a big tourist attraction and so …

The many tribes of this region of North Africa all live in what seem to be amazing harmony.  Mohammed says they have a very good King and the people love him.  We’ve learned a little history and find it so interesting that three religions actually thrive here.  Muslum, Christian and Jewish.  We also notice the difference between the “have’s” and the “have nots”.  There is a middle class here but mostly you’ve got really, really rich and dirt poor.  The Mercedes’ abound in the streets but also simple motorized bikes, all fighting us for position on these busy streets.

One thing of a surprise is that the language most spoken here is French  - thank goodness for that Grade 8 French class.  We have had such an amazing time, and just can’t wait for our second Morrocan stop tomorrow – Love to ALL!

7 – Agadir, Morocco

Guy is still getting a kick out of the time change but at least he is keeping his “Vancouver time” in his pocket.  We are totally acclamated now so all is good.  We have awoken to another gorgeous day!  Agadir is a modern city reconstructed after a devastating 15 minute earthquake in February 1960 which destroyed the city and half the population also perished.  We decided on a bus tour from the ship today which included a stop so we could see and soak in some of the culture and customs – and yes, we rode a camel!

The view from the ruins of the Kasbah to the rebuilt city of Agadir below.

Snake  Charmer anyone?  Nicholas, cover grandma`s eyes!

We’re leaving this country wanting more but on to the next adventure – have a good night!

February 8:

We’ve arrived at the beautiful island of Las Palmas which is owned by Spain and is part of the Canary Islands.  We again took the tour from the ship and had a full day of seeing the sights of this amazing island.  It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990.  400,000 people call this home and with the tourists from Europe coming here to soak up the sun, wow what a busy place.  This country has a long history and have documented the last 500 years in various museums.  The one we visited didn’t allow pictures but is was tres interesting and was called the Christopher Columbus (yep, ol’ Chris did get around).  Guy did get a picture with his parrots though (it’s so nice travelling with willing models):

And of course Winston did not want to be left out – everywhere we seem to go in Europe there is amazing courtyards, with plants, water fountains and space just to sit and enjoy

Here’s a great view of the north side of the island.  What’s with this dog/deer?  Oh well, Guy and Winston aren’t afraid of heights but the drive up here was giving me flashbacks of the road to Hana (OMG) but that’s another story.

This is St. Ann’s Cathedral  (okay now I am homesick), my youngest child is Anny and I’m thinking about all my kids and grandkids today. SOOO … hello Anny, Kyle, Cheryl, Amanda and my biggest kisses and hugs to my grandkids, Jesse, Aiden, Abby and Emma!  My love to all my family. 

This itinerary is amazing and the sites are incredible.  Keep well all – back at ya tomorrow.

February 9 – Funchal, Portugal

Oh well the good weather couldn’t last forever.  It is a rainy, rainy day.  We spent our time wandering the streets of this beautiful city.  All in all I don’t understand why there aren’t more tourist s because every place we have been to so far has been fabulous.  No crowds and decent enough weather   - I can totally recommend this to be the best time go.

We tried out the infamous (or is the just plain famous) Sangria!  I am hooked.  We shared a glass (or two) at a lovely café on the narrow streets of Funchal with a lovely retired couple from Kent, England.  Its just all so civilized!  You don’t have to be a local to enjoy the comfortable feeling you get from this little oasis in the Sea.  Rain or not – awesome!

We were thinking of hopping this ship instead but there was no buffet – I mean really?  We’re going back on board to be spoiled yet again by the fabulous staff of our floating resort, our home away from home – the Jade.

Departing this beautiful island, I just can’t believe we have so many ports ahead of us while we are still soaking in all that we have witnessed so far.  We have learned that the civil unrest in Cairo is still too uncertain so we will be going to Instanbul for two nights instead.  I have heard though that we won’t be disappointed.  So goodbye Funchal and thank you.

February 10 – Sea Day

We are well at home now on the NCL Jade and have enjoyed the live shows more than anything.  Some really talented people! The food has also been excellent.   Nothing really to report today but our room steward was feeling bad that Guy got to ride the camel (without Winston) so he left a little friend for him tonight - I thought my buddies at the office might get a chuckle:

 “the elephant ride”

Hoping all is well with friends & family and anyone else that might happen upon our little adventure!  Adios amigos.

Feb 11, 2011:

We have arrived in wonderful Malaga, Spain.  This city is rich with history and though you cannot possibly see it all in a day (for any of these stops),  we have chosen a tour of a little different nature. 

Our tour started through the main city of Malaga where our  guide pointed out stops of interest and importance of the city but we were set on our goal – the caves of Nerja.  Even the birthplace of Mr. Pablo Picasso was passed by in order to take the one hour drive up the coast to our destination.  The hillsides were filled with olive & avocado trees and greenhouses and fields where every kind of vegetable abound.  The farmers have two harvests per year and it only rains about 25 days a year.  We passed a 300 year old aquaduct feeding a small hillside and couldn’t believe it is still in use today.     We arrived at the caves and were simply overwhelmed.  Guy just couldn’t believe his eyes – I know my camera won’t do it justice but here are a few shots:

The experience was unforgettable and the fact they found cave drawings and bones and such dating back thousands of years was an incredible feeling (unfortunately those items were moved to the museum in Madrid).  This cave was actually only discovered 50 years ago by two young boys chasing bats in the hills.

We then motored down to the coast below to the town of Nerja which is one of the many resort villages along the Mediterranean coast that foreigners and Spanish  alike flock to for the summer break.  It is their winter here but I’d take it any day.  No crowds and beautiful beaches ….

What more can I say?

The end of another incredible day.  Anybody thinking Europe in the winter?  I never had before but I am sure glad that I did!  Keep well all – back to you tomorrow – Kelly, Guy & Winston.

February 12: At Sea

Wow, this 9 day cruise for most of us cruisers is ending tomorrow so there are a few somber faces and a lot of “let’s get everything in today or else” people rushing from onboard shopping to napkin folding!  Actually quite a few of the people we met had already done the 12 day itinerary previous to this and of course many will be staying on to make the 21 night itinerary like we are doing.  We have met people from Belgium, tons of fun Brits & Aussies and it seems the state of Texas sent their fair share this way along with New York, North & South Carolina (yep we were busy y’all).  Surprisingly even the Canadian friends we made came from Victoria (just an hour and a half from my home), Montreal, the small towns of Saskatchewan and of course Ontario.  We spoke to several people with kids ranging from 6 to 16 and found that everyone had had a blast (much to the astonishment of the parents – they never saw their kids).  This was a wonderful experience for all and the farewell show by the cruise staff was the best I’ve seen.  We’re so happy that this is not the end for us though – we’re on to the next adventure

February 13:  Barcelona!

We’re so glad to be back in the fabulous city of Barcelona (camera now a’clickin’).  We have definitely seen a different side of Barcelona today.  There is an international conference in town and the streets were filled with not only thousands of foreigners, but it is Sunday and the families have come out for the parade on the Las Ramblas.  What an incredible surprise for us, we were simply walking along and heard some music from behind us and were able to have a front row at the curb for a wonderful time of costumes, music and these amazing puppet people:

Yep, too cute and I miss you Nicholas, Aiden, Jesse, Abby & Emma!  Alright, the rest of you too!

We carried on back to the Gothic Quarter again because I just had to get some good pictures of the amazing sights we had already seen. 

This doesn`t do it justice but here is the McDonald`s on Las Ramblas (entrance is to the right but I like this door better):

We ended the day with a stop at the Barcelona Aquarium and a quick trip to the huge mall they have on the waterfront.  Guy is now sporting a new vest which he is most proud of but the best was yet to come.

We arrived back to the ship to a telephone message from the front office who advised me they had noted I wanted to waitlist for a better cabin .  The porthole window we had was fine but Guy had noticed down the hall that the cabins with the picture window were so much bigger than ours. Actually they weren’t any larger just looked that way.   I have always advised my clients to at least ask at the front desk because you never know what could come available, even on a sold out sailing.  My own advice paid off as for a little extra we could have a balcony.  It turns out to be the best money I spent on this trip!  I told Guy that I had a surprise for him as I lead in up to the 10^th floor, suspicion in his mind (he had never seen the cabins with a walk out balcony as our other cruises before were just the windows).  Can you imagine his surprise?  Well the smile he has worn on his face every since… (I am writing this 24 hours later) – well they say a picture is worth a thousand words:

For those of you who know Guy, yes, he has been using the words “BIG SHOT”.  Too much  fun!  For those of you who don`t know Guy, he has cerebral palsy and understands this world as a young  teenager – it is so wonderful for me to show him just a small part of Europe and watch the wonder in his eyes with each new adventure.   Wishing you all pleasant journeys in your future – I have to go now and cut-off Winston - hopping into the Bud Lite may be dangerous!

February 14:  At Sea – Happy Valentine’s Day – just another wonderful day with calm seas, sunshine and being spoiled rotten – hope you are too!

February 15:  And then … there was Rome

We have woken to another sunny day (have we been lucky or what?).  The excitement is everywhere on the ship as we sail into the port of Civitavecchia at 7:30 am.  Many have already visited this area and newbies like myself are awestruck already.  This port city is known as the “Eternal City” of Rome.  The anniversary of Rome’s foundation is April 21, 753BC, (not a misprint).  Ruins dating from Rome’s glory days lie with an area known as Roma Antica (Ancient Rome) and include the sites we are seeing today such as the monumental Coliseum and Roman Forum – a crumbling legacy of pagan temples, broken marble and triumphal arches.  We have opted for the smaller bus tour with free time to wander as pretty much everything we have on our list is within walking distance.  For those that weren’t looking for the security of the ship’s tour, other brave travelers  took the free shuttle to the end of the pier and about 200 yards after caught the train into the city centre about 1 hour away.  For 9 Euros you can get a return ticket which also includes the metro and public bus system in  Rome while your exploring.    Here are a few sights along the way from our bus:

My pictures simply could not touch the magnificence of this city.  After about a half hour of driving the streets we had free time where we visited Trevi Fountain and the Spanish steps (and yes, we threw our coins and made our wishes!):

Awesome!

Looking up the steps, then down:

This is a city you could return to again and again and discover new sights every time.  The small piazza’s that are dotted throughout the city and connect the neighbourhoods are filled with history.  They usually mark a special fountain or monument and make it easy to navigate the narrow streets.  I can’t imagine what this place is like in the summer with all the travelers – it seemed almost too crowded now.  But alas, our day is done – back to our ship for a meal and another glorious sea day - we feel blessed to have witnessed the past in our present. 

February 16:  Sea day – sunshine, food, gym, food, hotub, food, show, food – what a day!

February 17:  Dare I say it …. Athens

Pulling into the port of Piraeus, Greece and being able to watch the action from our balcony is just too much!  Piraeus is the third largest port in Europe and one of the busiest in the world.  21 million passengers, 26,000 ships, 6 million tons of general cargo and 1.4 million containers pass through each year.  With its magnificent architecture, legendary cultural attractions and unparalleled place in history, this capital city known as “the cradle of Western civilization” is a must-see destination.  We are taking a drive around the city and ending at the Acropolis Museum which is located on an active excavation site.  They have built the museum on pillars so that when the excavation is finished (possibly by next year) they can open up so travelers can experience it firsthand – you can see through the floors and openings right now:

The museum itself houses all the artifacts found at the acropolis and the third floor is a demonstration of the Parthenon with many original pieces.  Unfortunately you cannot take pictures inside but you can imagine what it was like to view vases, cooking and eating utensils, sculptures, etc. etc. etc. from thousands of years ago.  From the museum window we took pictures of the ruins above:

We had an opportunity to watch the “changing of the guards” while passing by on our bus which happens every hour – it drew a small crowd.  (Not quite England)

We purchased postcards with magnificent pictures because no matter what,  you see you just can’t appreciate this city’s ancient heritage. 

I think cruising was the perfect way to get a taste of Rome and Athens and I’ll definitely be back when I can spend more time – a day just can’t do it justice but it did give me a feeling I can’t describe and will never forget.

We will be spending the next three days in Turkey so I’ll be back to you with our continued European adventure tomorrow …  happy trails – Kelly & Guy & Winston

February 18:  Izmir, Turkey

We have arrived to the wonderful city of Izmir which is the 3^rd largest city in Turkey.  The view is breath-taking with ancient sea walls being right on the pier and just steps from our ship.  The weather was beautiful today so our luck hasn’t given out yet.  From the ship this morning we took the hour long trip to the most amazing ancient city we’ve visited, Ephesus.  This historical site was an Ionian Greek city in ancient Anatolia, founded by colonists from Athens in the 10^th century B.C.  Tons of people lined up to physically walk through the streets of this crumbled city which is so awesome that you can wander down any street imagining the life once lived there.  They have unearthed the Library, the public baths, the forum, homes of the rich and poor.  We were told the recovery of Ephesus is only 20% complete and there are many years of excavation left.  It is also the site of a large Gladiator graveyard.   Just take a look at these pictures (unfortunately not mine but ….):

Celcus Library

Theatre

Fountain

Public Toilets

This truly is a place on this earth to be seen.  We leave here humbled once again with the wonderment of such history – put this place on your bucket list!

February 19:  Istanbul

We sailed into Istanbul this morning along a spectacular coastline, again cementing my new-found balcony appreciation.  I am still wounded from the letdown of not being in Egypt but I think the cruiseline made a good alternative choice.  It is cold and clear today and our excursion for the day is going over to the famous Blue Mosque in this region and then on to the Grand Bazaar with over 5,000 vendors.  

Founded by Constantine the Great on the site of ancient Byzantium, Istanbul (then Constantinople) was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire.  This almost unrivalled heritage, as well as its dynamic modern existence, makes Istanbul a fantastic destination for all travellers. Interestingly, it is centered between the continents  of both Europe and Africa and maintains its own currency of Turkish lira (YTL).

Here is the Blue Mosque we visited inside and out:

We are staying overnight in this beautiful city for 2 nights so everyone can make the most of their stay.  Unfortunately, my two roommates have come down with the sniffles so we’ll be staying close by.  I hope everything is well on your side of the world – just 6 more sleeps and we’ll be home too!

February 20:  Istanbul

It happened – the coldest, drizzliest day on our vacation.  But after eating a good breakfast, (surprise) we trudged out the door and up the main road to the bridge and over to the Asia side for a look see on foot.  Turned out my travelling companion’s not thrilled with the true grit needed to be a true adventurer and so we decided to hop on the nearest tour boat to cruise down the Bosporus River for a one and a half hour sail.  For just $7 USD it turned out to be the bargain of the trip.  The scenic coastline was totally amazing and we viewed such sights - castles, palaces, ancient, modern and turn of the century houses,  mosques and mosques and mosques – I just can’t get over how many astounding domed buildings can fit into such a small space.

Unfortunately you’ll have to take my word for it as alas my camera is sleeping back at the ship with Winston.  Wishing you all the best day you can have today at where you are!

February 21: Up at the crack of 9 am and at sea today 

Started with eating, then  shopping, back to sleeping, eating, sleeping and some eating, then sleeping – looking forward to our next stop tomorrow at the island of Malta!

February 23:  Valetta, Malta

Our day in Malta was the icing on the cake!   I had never imagined the sites we would see and again my expectations were  exceeded.  There are three main islands that make up the Republic of Malta.  Historically it has long held the attention of the world, from the details of crusading knights to World War II action, which of course is all due to Malta’s strategic location.  Malta’s islands are positioned in the Mediterranean, just south of Sicily, a point that commands access not only to Europe but to Northern Africa and the Middle East as well.

This harbor first greeted Phoenician traders 3000 years ago.  Later, the Knights of Malta journeyed here to protect pilgrims on the way to the Holy Land during the Crusades.  The city of Valetta itself dates back to 1566 and as we sailed along the coastline the limestone wall still outlines this bustling city.  Here is a few shots from our balcony as we sail in (hehehe):

We took a tour around the island to view many more amazing sites:

The island is mostly Roman Catholic and boasts a whopping 365 churches on this small island:

You can note the great access to heaven located above this one (sorry, I couldn’t resist).  The bus trip was great with lots of interesting stops along the way.

We have now completed our last stop on our extraordinary European Adventure.  Thanks for following along … back to our ship for one more sea day and then back to Canada  - we had a blast but as Dorothy says … THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!  Wishing you all fantastic journeys such as this in your near future … Bon Voyage!

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