SEPTEMBER
** – TODAY WE DEPART FROM NY –JFK AIRPORT ON A 5:40PM FLIGHT THIS EVENING NONSTOP TO BARCELONA
September **: BARCELONA
Arrival at Barcelona airport this morning. We will be transferred to our First Class hotel, The Hotel Condes de Barcelona.The Hotel Condes de Barcelona occupies a prime location on Paseo de Gracia, in the heart of Modernist Barcelona and facing the famous Gaudi building La Pedrera.
The Hotel is built on two splendid nineteenth-century Modernist mansions, carefully restored to offer maximum comfort, the best in contemporary design and cutting-edge technology. A four-star hotel offering exquisite, personalized service in keeping with the warm atmosphere and avant-garde gastronomy.
http://www.condesdebarcelona.com/pag/hotel.php?idioma=en
This afternoon enjoy an escorted tour of one of Europe's most beautiful cities. See the ancient Gothic Quarter with its magnificent cathedral. Stop to admire the exterior of Gaudi's masterwork, the Basilica of the Sacred Family (Sagrada Familia). Continue to Montjuich Hill (site of the Olympic Stadium), to enjoy a spectacular view of Barcelona and its port area.
September **: BARCELONA
Buffet breakfast. Pre-arranged transfer to Barcelona pier to board our cruise ship:
Nightly shows, casino action, dance club, piano bar and more make the nights all sizzle on board our floating resort.
Ship Highlights
Ice-skating rink
Rock-climbing wall
In-line skating
Royal Promenade (open 24 hours)
Johnny Rockets® '50s-style restaurant
Portofino Italian Restaurant
Themed bars and lounges
Casino RoyaleSM
Golf simulators
9-hole miniature golf course
Adventure Ocean® youth facilities
Day Spa and Fitness Center
Full-size basketball court
SEPTEMBER ** – TODAY IS A FULL DAY AT SEA TO ENJOY THE AMENITIES OF OUR CRUISE SHIP, THE POOLS JACUZZIS, SUN DECKS, AND SO MUCH MORE, PLUS PLANNED ACTIVITIES ORGANIZED BY THE CRUISE STAFF.
SEPTEMBER **
Naples is not only picturesque, it's also one of the world's greatest cultural centers, filled with extraordinary works of art and architecture in the classical Greek and Roman styles. Several interesting tours are available of the city itself and the fascinating places that lie just outside of Naples.
The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss
While you're in the area, you'll want to visit Pompeii, one of the most famous excavation sites in the world. A thriving city 1,900 years ago, it was devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. when 30 feet of volcanic ash and pumice stone covered it. Enter Pompeii by the sea gate and take a short walk to the hub of the city: the Forum. View the lavish temples and porticoes that lay beneath the ash for centuries.
Other Fun Things to Do
Take a boat trip to the entrancing Isle of Capri, and explore Capri Town. Wander its quaint streets and explore its shops and cafés. Discover the Gardens of Augustus, overlooking the famous Faraglioni of Capri and Marina Piccola.
Take a ride up the Amalfi Coast. With its ocean views and beautiful vistas, it's one of the most breathtaking stretches of road in the world.
Walk around and spend an afternoon getting to know the picturesque city of Naples.
Get a Taste of Local Flavor
Pizza was invented in Naples, and there are plenty of authentic pizzerias to choose from. Try mozzarella and tomato served with fresh basil and liberally doused in olive oil as a starter. Spigola (sea bass) is the most popular fish here, and you'll find it served steamed and baked. For dessert, try sfogliatella, a delicious clam-shaped Neapolitan pastry.
September **
Civitavecchia is the gateway to all the magnificence of the ancient city of Rome. Whether it's the Forum, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon or St. Peter's Basilica that sparks your interest and intellect, Rome is home to a lifetime's worth of historical, architectural and spiritual sites. Depending on traffic, the drive from Civitavecchia to Rome takes approximately an hour and a half.
Once the center of the ancient world from which emperors ruled over nearly all of western civilization for hundreds of years, Rome is still considered by many to reign over all other European destinations. Here you can breathe the air once breathed by great Roman gladiators in the ancient halls of the Coliseum. Gaze upon the very ceilings Michelangelo painted at the Sistine Chapel. Or visit a monument to both size and faith, St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church ever built
You Don't Want to Miss
Experience the history of Rome as you wander around the Coliseum and Roman Forum.
Explore the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain and other wonders of this ancient city. Picture the gladiators and their chariots on an interior tour of the Coliseum. Bask in the glory of Vatican City, with an inside look at St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the magnificent Sistine Chapel.
Other Fun Things to Do
Explore the amazing history and culture of Rome. Stop at the Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, a Roman sacrificial altar enclosed in a screen of Parian marble.
Visit the Vatican Museum, where you can walk through the many rooms that house the largest art collection in the world.
Travel through magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world.
View the Sistine Chapel, a masterpiece of Renaissance art, the ceiling of which was painted by Michelangelo.
Toss a coin in the famous Trevi Fountain - a way to ensure that you'll always return to Rome.
Get a Taste of Local Flavor
There are many varieties of pasta available with a wide range of sauces. Bucatini all'Amatricana, a thick spaghetti in a tangy tomato and bacon sauce, is one example associated with Rome. Osso Bucco, also popular, is a casserole of veal shin flavored with garlic, tomatoes and wine. For dessert, try ricotta cake, a form of cheesecake, or Zuppa Inglese, a liqueur-soaked sponge cake covered with custard, similar to English trifle.
SEPTEMBER **
Livorno, in the Tuscan region of Italy, is ideally located for exploring some of the most beautiful cities in Italy, including Florence and Pisa. Florence is most noted as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Highlights include impressive piazzas and an incomparable 15th-century skyline - sure to offer charm and an unforgettable experience to any visitor.
Occupying both banks of the Arno River and situated at the foot of the Apennine Mountains, is Florence. Founded by Julius Caesar himself, Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. History and art shake hands in this picturesque land where masterpieces like Michelangelo's David can be seen in the city's many museums, churches and galleries
The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss
When you're in the area, you'll definitely want to explore Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Start by visiting the church of Santa Croce, known as Italy's Westminster Abbey because of the Italian monarchy buried there. View the 14th-century interior and marvel at one of the finest examples of Florentine Gothic decoration. Stop at the Piazza del Duomo in Florence, where the cathedral, bell tower and baptistery share the same square. Then stop in the Piazza della Signoria, the city's largest square, and gaze upon a copy of Michelangelo's David and the Loggia dei Lanzi.
Other Fun Things to Do
Shop for souvenirs at the famed Ponte Vecchio in Florence.
Explore the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, home to works by Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rubens.
Visit the Field of Miracles in Pisa, and discover one of the world's most amazing sights - the Campanile, or Leaning Tower. Learn the fascinating details about this famous bell tower.
Take a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside, enjoying its soft, rounded hills, the medieval architecture of its villages and the silver green of the olive trees mingling with the dark-green of the cypress trees. Stop in a local winery to sample some of its delicious product.
Get a Taste of Local Flavor
Every area of Italy is known for its unique cuisine and pasta dishes. Try fazzoletti, pasta filled with ricotta cheese and spinach. Other Tuscan specialties are: ribollita, a variation on minestrone; papardelle, broad noodles; stracotto, a beef stew with beans; and bistecca alla fiorentina, a charcoal-grilled T-bone steak marinated in olive oil and black pepper
SEPTEMBER **
Villefranche is your gateway to the one-of-a-kind French Riviera, home to Monte Carlo, Cannes and Nice.
Shaded by jagged mountains touching deep blue shores, Villefrancheoffers sunny beaches, sophisticated resort cities, quaint red-roofedvillages and spectacular views.
Situated at the foot of the Alps is the French Riviera city of Nice. Once you arrive here, it will be clear why this jewel of the French Riviera is home to some of the world's most luxurious hotels and terraced cafés. Stroll along the ultra-famous Promenade des Anglais or see masterpieces by Matisse, Renoir, Monet and Chagall in one of Nice's many museums. For a true taste of Nice, sample the local favorites, including onion, anchovy and olive tarts known as pissaladières, along with succulent little black olives known as caillettes. If your thing is lounging on gorgeous beaches, you will love our visit to Nice.
The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss
While Villefranche is lovely, it's truly remarkable for what surrounds it. While you're there, visit some of its better-known neighbors: Cannes, Nice and Monte Carlo. These jet-setters' retreats are as remarkable for their beautiful beaches as the mansions and boutiques that surround them.
Other Fun Things to Do
See the Rock of Monaco, and travel on foot through the Old Quarter.
Explore the vaulted passageways and beautiful façade of Monaco's Prince's Palace and the Palace Square.
Visit the 19th-century Monaco Cathedral, final resting place of the Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly. Stop at Place du Casino in Monte Carlo to explore this renowned landmark.
Go shopping in Old Town in Nice, where you'll find interesting shops and charming sidewalk cafés.
Drive down the Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes, famous for its exclusive hotels and designer boutiques.
Get a Taste of Local Flavor
Sample local favorites, including onion, anchovy and olive tarts known as pissaladières. Salad Nicoise is also popular here, combining tuna, hard-boiled egg, green beans and anchovies. Vegetarians might prefer ratatouille, a tomato-based dish with onions, eggplant, zucchini and subtle spices.
SEPTEMBER **
Ships, ships and more ships. Toulon is France's exciting naval epicenter. Bobbing sailboats dot its busy harbor. On land you'll find tons of maritime museums, ancient fortresses and a fair share of sailors. And in true French fashion you'll also find plenty of stylish spots for shopping and lunching. But what really makes this seaport so special is its proximity to glitzy Saint-Tropez and the Côte d'Azur.
The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss
If you're looking for the perfect photo op, take a cable car to the peak of Mont Faron. After you've soaked up the scenery, visit the Mémorial du Débarquement en Provence, a museum that houses an interesting collection of World War II memorabilia.
Other Fun Things to Do
Catch some Mediterranean sunshine at Plage du Morillon - the seaport's most popular beach.
Pop into the Musée de Toulon and ogle its vast collection of Provençal, Italian and religious masterpieces from the 16th century to the present.
Take a boat tour around the harbor.
Shopping For Bargains
There are plenty of places to shop for designer fashions, fine jewelry and French perfume. You'll even find a three-story mall that has just about everything, including a supermarket and a movie theater.
Get A Taste Of Local Flavors
Pull up a chair at a charming terrace café and make sure to sample the savory Mediterranean specialties.
SEPTEMBER ** – WE ARRIVE BACK IN BARCELONA AND ARE TRANSFERRED TO THE AIRPORT FOR OUR NONSTOP DELTA AIRLINES FLIGHT BACK TO JFK, ARRIVING 2:15PM
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