CRUISE OF FRANCE, SPAIN and ITALY
Aboard the fabulous Royal Carribbean Cruise Line
Voyager of the Seas
With one night pree cruise hotel stay in Scintillatung Barcelona, Spain
Sept. 10-19, 2010
   
Join us for a scintillating cruise visiting some of the most incredible sights and cities in France, Spain and Italy.
We will start in Barcelona Spain with a day and overnight in this fabulous city. Then we will sail aboard the luxurious Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Voyager of the Seas to Naples Italy, gateway to the stunningly beautiful Amalfi Coast, as well as optional excursions to Mount Vesuvious and the island of Capri.
Then, it’s on to the eternal city of Rome, for a day to visit its legendary monuments including the Coliseum, Trevi fountain, and Roman forum, plus the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica
Next, it’s incredible Florence Italy for a day to visit its magnificent museums, shopping and culture. Visit the famed statue of David and so much more !
Lastly, we sail to 2 ports on the famed French Riviera, Nice and Toulon.
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When you cruise to the "Cradle of Civilization," there's a natural tendency to be more, well, civilized - more relaxed. It's just a totally different feeling. The sun is warmer and so are the smiles. The colors more vibrant, the cuisine a little livelier. Mediterranean people know the secret of living life to the fullest. Best part is, they're willing to share
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Barcelona is located in the northeastern part of the country, 90 miles south of the French border. People from all around the world enjoy visiting this city for its individuality, cultural interest and physical beauty. When Hans Christian Andersen visited in 1862, he remarked that Barcelona was the "Paris of Spain." You're likely to agree. The city is a major cultural center with a fascinating history. Everywhere are archives, libraries, museums and buildings of interest - plus superb examples of modernist and Art Nouveau décor and architecture. |
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SEPTEMBER 10TH – TODAY WE DEPART FROM NY –JFK AIRPORT ON A 5:40PM FLIGHT THIS EVENING NONSTOP TO BARCELONA
September 11: 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 12: BARCELONA
Buffet breakfast. Pre-arranged transfer to Barcelona pier to board our cruise ship:
The 138,000-ton, 3,114-guest Voyager of the Seas became the world's largest cruise ship when it entered service in November 1999. Innovations on this and other Voyager-class ships add up to more space for every guest, and include enhanced staterooms, expanded dining options and exceptional recreational facilities.
Nightly shows, casino action, dance club, piano bar and more make the nights all sizzle on board our floating resort. |
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Ship Highlights |
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Ice-skating rink |
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Rock-climbing wall |
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In-line skating |
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Royal Promenade (open 24 hours) |
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Johnny Rockets® '50s-style restaurant |
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Portofino Italian Restaurant |
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Themed bars and lounges |
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Casino RoyaleSM |
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Golf simulators |
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9-hole miniature golf course |
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Adventure Ocean® youth facilities |
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Day Spa and Fitness Center |
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Full-size basketball court |
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SEPTEMBER 13TH – TODAY IS A FULL DAY AT SEA TO ENJOY THE AMENITIES OF OUR CRUISE SHIP, THE POOLSM JACUZZIS, SUN DECKS, AND SO MUCH MORE, PLUS PLANNED ACTIVITIES ORGANIZED BY THE CRUISE STAFF.
SEPTEMBER 14TH
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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. |
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The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss |
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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. |
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Other Fun Things to Do |
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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. |
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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. |
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Walk around and spend an afternoon getting to know the picturesque city of Naples. |
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Get a Taste of Local Flavor |
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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 15th
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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. |
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 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
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You Don't Want to Miss |
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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. |
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Other Fun Things to Do |
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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. |
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Visit the Vatican Museum, where you can walk through the many rooms that house the largest art collection in the world. |
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Travel through magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world. |
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View the Sistine Chapel, a masterpiece of Renaissance art, the ceiling of which was painted by Michelangelo. |
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Toss a coin in the famous Trevi Fountain - a way to ensure that you'll always return to Rome. |
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Get a Taste of Local Flavor |
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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 16TH
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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. |
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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 |
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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. |
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Other Fun Things to Do |
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Shop for souvenirs at the famed Ponte Vecchio in Florence. |
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Explore the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, home to works by Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rubens. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Get a Taste of Local Flavor |
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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 17TH
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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, Villefranche
offers sunny beaches, sophisticated resort cities, quaint red-roofed
villages and spectacular views. |
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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 |
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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. |
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Other Fun Things to Do |
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See the Rock of Monaco, and travel on foot through the Old Quarter. |
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Explore the vaulted passageways and beautiful façade of Monaco's Prince's Palace and the Palace Square. |
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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. |
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Go shopping in Old Town in Nice, where you'll find interesting shops and charming sidewalk cafés. |
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Drive down the Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes, famous for its exclusive hotels and designer boutiques. |
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Get a Taste of Local Flavor |
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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. |
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SEPTEMBER 18TH
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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. |
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The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss |
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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. |
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Other Fun Things to Do |
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Catch some Mediterranean sunshine at Plage du Morillon - the seaport's most popular beach. |
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Pop into the Musée de Toulon and ogle its vast collection of Provençal, Italian and religious masterpieces from the 16th century to the present. |
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Take a boat tour around the harbor. |
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Shopping For Bargains |
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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. |
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Get A Taste Of Local Flavors |
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Pull up a chair at a charming terrace café and make sure to sample the savory Mediterranean specialties. |
SEPTEMBER 19TH – WE ARRIVE BACK IN BARCELONA AND ARE TRANSFERRED TO THE AIRPORT FOR OUR NONSTOP DELTA AIRLINES FLIGHT BACK TO JFK, ARRIVING 2:15PM.
OUR MEDITERANEAN CRUISE OF DELIGHTS INCLUDES
- ROUND TRIP AIR ON DELTA AIRLINES FROM NY-JFK TO BARCELONA, SPAIN
- 1 NIGHT PRE CRUISE ACCOMMODATIONS AT 1ST CLASS HOTEL IN BARCELONA SPAIN
- TRANSFERS FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE HOTEL AND FROM THE HOTEL TO THE CRUISE SHIP
- CITY TOUR OF BARCELONA, INCLUDING ADMISSION TO THE FAMED SAGRADA FAMILIA CHURCH
- 7 DAY CRUISE ON ROYAL CARRIBBEAN CRUISE LINE FROM BARCELONA TO ITALY AND FRANCE
- Free roommate matching based on age sex and smoking or non smoking preference
TRIP COST: $1899 + 249 TAXES BASED ON INSIDE CABIN ACCOMMODATIONS
ADD $300 PER PERSON FOR OCEAN VIEW CABIN ACCOMMODATIONS, OR $500 PER PERSON FOR BALCONY CABIN ACCOMMODATIONS
Optional single supplement: for those not wishing our free roommate matching:
$989 based on inside cabin accomm.
$1289 based on ocean view cabin accomm
$1489 based on balcony cabin accomm.
Passengers desiring to provide their own air may deduct: $800 + tax of $99
A deposit of $400 is due within 14 days of making your trip reservations. Deposits are refundable if cancelled by May 15th. Balance payments are due June 25 and are non refundable
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