The most visited square is Piazza della Signoria, the heart of the historic center and a free open-air sculpture exhibit. Loggia della Signoria holds some important statues such as Michelangelo's David.

Florence's most popular site is its Duomo (cathedral), the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore. The exterior, made of green, pink, and white marble, has several elaborate doors and interesting statues. Inside, Brunelleschi's Dome is a masterpiece of construction. Buy a ticket to climb the 463 steps to the top of the bell tower. The panoramic view of the city is amazing. Please note, is not air-conditioned on the way up, so peak summer months can get very hot, so make sure and bring water.

The Baptistery of John the Baptist, from the 11th century, is one of Florence's oldest buildings. Its exterior is made of green and white marble and has three sets of amazing bronze doors. Inside, you can see some mosaics and a marble pavement of the zodiac.

The Galleria degli Uffizi holds the world's most important collection of Renaissance art but it's also Italy's most crowded museum. You can buy tickets ahead to avoid long lines. Better yet, if you purchase a shore excursion or are on one of our escorted tours, your group will have priority access. The Uffizi holds thousands of paintings from medieval to modern times and many antique sculptures, illuminations, and tapestries.

Florence's Galleria dell' Academia holds important paintings and sculptures from the 13th-16th centuries. Michelangelo's David, probably the most famous sculpture in the world, is in the Galleria dell' Academia as well as other sculptures by Michelangelo. You'll also find an interesting collection of musical instruments, from the Medici family.

Florence has some of the finest shopping in Europe. Leather goods, paper goods, and jewelry as well as nice souvenirs and art productions. Florence also has a number of open air markets selling food, clothing, and antiques.

Whether it's for a day, or an extended vacation, Florence, Italy is a wonderful travel experience. For more information on travel to Italy, you can visit http://www.escorteditalytours.com

The Tower of Pisa, one of Europe's most famous towers and designed by Bonanno Pisano, is a freestanding bell tower, of the cathedral of the Italian city of Pisa. The Tower of Pisa was a work of art, performed in three stages over a period of about 177 years. It stands 183.27 feet tall from the ground on the shortest side and 186.02 on the highest side. 

Construction of the first floor of the white marble campanile began on August 9, 1173. This first floor is surrounded by pillars with classical capitals, leaning against blind arches.

The tower began to sink after construction progressed to the third floor in 1178. This was due to a mere three-meter foundation, set in weak, unstable subsoil and the construction was halted, allowing time for the underlying soil to settle, otherwise, the tower would almost certainly have toppled. 

The construction resumed in 1272. Trying to compensate for the tilt the engineers built higher floors with one side taller than the other. This made the tower begin to lean in the other direction. Because of this, the tower is actually curved. Construction was halted again in 1284.

The seventh floor was completed in 1319. The bell-chamber was not finally added until 1372. There are seven bells in the tower, one for each note of the tuned musical scale. 

After a phase (1990-2001) of structural strengthening, the tower is currently undergoing gradual surface restoration, in order to repair visual damage, mostly corrosion and blackening.

After 2001, the tower reopened to the public. However, the number of visitors is strictly controlled via compulsory 35- to 40-minute guided tours where you are able to climb to the top. There are 294 stairs with no hand rails and the walls are worn smooth. The stairs are slippery and were built in a very tight spiral. You may think it was harder getting down than going up.

As part of The Signature Collection, we're excited to bring you the unique opportunity to travel with Food Network and provide exclusive access to authentic and engaging Food Network travel experiences on land and at sea. As they say..."learn it, make it, taste it and share it!"

Join these exciting food adventures that focus on food, ingredients, flavors and cooking tips from around the world. These itineraries offer By Invitation Only events such as one-of-a-kind classes led by Chefs from Food Network Kitchens, lively cooking demonstrations by Food Network stars, private parties and VIP opportunities to explore local culinary scenes around the world, and much more.

In 2012 Food Network Travel will offer 3 tour vacations.

Food Network Travel Flavors of France

Food Network Travel Flavors of Italy

Food Network Travel Flavors of San Fransisco and Wine Country

France is a western European country stretching from the Mediterranean to the North Sea, from the Rhine River to the Atlantic Ocean. It borders Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Andorra and Spain. The Rhône, Saône, Seine, and Rhine Rivers also flow through the country, giving visitors many opportunities to enjoy a relaxing France river cruise. Few countries can rival France for its contributions to world history, culture, language, literature, cinema, cuisine and viticulture. There are many reasons why the country is the #1 tourist destination in the world

A river cruise along one of the country’s rivers will allow visitors to experience the varied landscape, cities, and towns that make this area so special. A cruise along the Rhône River or the Saône River will bring cruise travelers through the heart of Burgundy and Provence, which features delicious food and wine, as well as beautiful scenery along the river. A popular Uniworld river cruise visits this region is the 8 day Burgundy and Provence

France’s Seine River will bring cruise visitors through Normandy, where grand monuments of established cities and medieval centers of bustling market towns and sleepy river villages await them. A wonderful itinerary for this region is Avalon Waterways Paris to Normandy's Landing Beaches.

If you prefer staying in one place, we urge you to consider ‘all-inclusive’ resort stays. You can have all of the features of a resort, great food, delectable drinks and unlimited activities, all included in the price. That gives the entire family the freedom to experience an amazing array of activities without stress or hassle. We love Club Med’s “Most Inclusive” family plan programs at resorts like the Cancun Yucatan, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and the recently renovated Sandpiper Resort in Florida. These are places that really know how to manage the diverse needs of family groups, from tots to teens to adults of all ages.

Q: I want to take my two older sons on a ‘sporty’ vacation (and not just golf!). Any suggestions?

A: There’s really nothing like fishing and hiking in the Canadian Rockies. The scenery is spectacular and the angling is world-class. We recommend the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and the Fairmont Banff Springs. But caution: this trip can be very habit-forming! Hiking and river rafting in the National Parks is another great vacation.

We already mentioned Royal Caribbean cruise line with a number of sports activities onboard, but they aren't the only cruise line.  Consider Norwegian Cruise Line, specifically their new ship, the Norwegian Epic.  Here they'll find a sports deck with a repelling wall, extreme rock climbing wall, bowling alley, full size basketball court, volleyball, soccer, dodge ball, a batting cage, bungee trampoline, rope adventure course and a 24 ft. tall enclosed climbing cage called the spider web.  Then they can cool off in the first ever Aqua Park that offers 3 waterslides. The Epic Plunge, the only tube slide at sea, has a thrilling drop through a 200 ft. long tube. How that for a variety of "sport activities?"

Q: We’re having a tough time deciding which U.S. National Park to visit this year. Any clues?

A: Yellowstone is great for kids, with all the animals and geysers. Yosemite is good for older kids and adults, who can climb Half Dome and appreciate the waterfalls and wildflowers. For a little more adventure, how about hiking the Appalachian Trail or camping in Maine’s stunningly beautiful Acadia National Park?

Q: We’re planning a big family reunion getaway. Do you have any suggestions?

A: We keep getting rave reviews from large reunion groups that cruise together. There’s loads to do, both aboard and on shore, great accommodations for group activities and staff that really know how to entertain and satisfy the needs of several generations in one party. Depending on your time and interests, consider a family cruise to Alaska or the Mediterranean.

Q: We want to start planning our next great family adventure. What are the hottest “long-haul” destinations right now?

A: Australia and South Africa are at the top of our list of favorites. We can take you to both places, from azure oceans to cosmopolitan cities to the wild outback. Take a fabulous safari to South Africa and travel to Cape Town and the Kapame Game Reserve. Discover Down Under with a grand journey to the Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock and Sydney. Whether you want an experienced guide to help you navigate the new terrain or would rather venture on your own, we’ll help you choose a guided vacation or craft a tailor-made independent journey just for you.

Q: My husband and my kids and my parents want to go to Hawaii. Help!

A: Hawaii is the perfect multi-generation family destination. From lounging at the pool to hiking, surfing, shopping, golf, spa treatments, etc., there’s truly something for everyone. Consider Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, where children 18 and younger stay free. Or how about the new Aulani Disney Resort & Spa on Oahu? It’s the first Disney resort not attached to a theme park…and sure to be a big hit!

Q: Any last-minute packing tips for traveling with families?
A: Limit each person to one wheeled suitcase and one carry-on backpack or shoulder bag (keep one hand free to hold onto your child). Make a packing checklist for each person and let older kids be responsible for their packing. Pack several days before you leave so you have time to remember those last-minute items. Pack each day’s clothing together in outfits. Choose washable clothes that can be mixed and matched and dressed up with a jacket or shawl, and make sure shoes are comfortable and broken in before your trip! Visit our Travel Advice section on our blog for more travel tips. If you are looking for a new luggage set or carry on bag, take advantage of this ebags coupon code. 

Q: Any recommendations for a family getaway at the end of the year?

A: For a really ‘magical’ holiday, the dazzling Christmas markets in Europe will please all the family. Or, for an off-the-beaten-path holiday and an escape into warm weather, take a Paul Gauguin Cruise to Tahiti or enjoy a relaxed resort experience on Fiji. But plan ahead! Resorts sell out in the summer for the holidays and family suites tend to sell out first.

Q: We’d like to take our kids on a guided vacation as a graduation gift for our daughter. What do you suggest that would appeal to both the young people and the adults?

A: For starters, here are two very different suggestions: Costa Rica and Italy tours. Both of these remarkable places are packed with scenery, colorful culture, fantastic food and warm, welcoming people. There are plenty of other options across the globe, so give us a a call and we’ll help you craft the experience that fits your preferences and your budget.

Q: I’m worried about what will happen if someone gets sick when we’re on our trip.

A: Being sick on a trip is never fun, but you can protect yourself against some of the anxiety and inconvenience with travel insurance. There are many options and we’d be happy to talk with you and help you choose the best plan for your family.

One of Italy's most romantic cities is Florence-the home of poets and painters and the spawning ground of what must be much of the world's great art. Even today, it's a city where art and creativity are in the forefront of everyday life, a city of timeless beauty tailor-made for lovers. So, imagine honeymooning or sharing a lovers' tryst in the stunning 400-year-old Grand Hotel Villa Medici, an historical residence located in the center of Florence within walking distance of all major art sites and shopping locations. Here, the high-quality service meets the elegance of the interior's historical furnishings, with each of its 88 rooms and 15 suites showcasing original antique furnishings and tapestries. Wide windows frame Florence and the Tuscany landscape, while the rooms on the top floor-which have private terraces and are a must for honeymooners and lovers-overlook the captivating cityscape. Or, there's the Il Magnifico Suite, which has a large terrace and jacuzzi. The hotel's Sina Fitness Club is the perfect place for couples to relax, enjoy a sauna, a Turkish bath or work out in the gym, while the restaurant Lorenzo de Medici with its Tuscan cuisine, provides an excellent and romantic Florentine dining experience. The restaurant abuts the Conservatory, another dining experience with a modern interior and verandah leading to the garden and pool. Clients of both restaurants can enjoy warm summer nights listening to live music and tasting exquisite wines.

Venice, too, of course, ranks right up there as a city for lovers. It's here, after all, where you'll find the famous Bridge of Sighs where, local legend says, lovers will be assured eternal love if they kiss on a gondola at sunset under the bridge. Unfortunately, the name really came from the fact that this was a passageway that took prisoners into the palace prisons from which few returned and where the hapless victims looked out onto freedom for the last time with a sigh. Except for one, the famous Casanova who was arrested in 1755 for spreading antireligious sentiment and escaped 15 months after he crossed the Bridge of Sighs-now that's romance. Nearby, overlooking the Riva degli Shiavoni, just steps from Piazza San Marco, St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, the restored and romantic Hotel Danieli is made up of three interconnecting palaces. The main building, the 14th century Dandolo Palace, is Venetian gothic lavishly appointed with pink marble, stained glass, gold-leaf decorated ceilings, Murano glass chandeliers and antiques. The adjacent Casa Nuova building is a 19th century palace whose decor reflects a rich, Venetian baroque style. The building to the right of the central Dandolo Palace is the Danielino, dating back to 1948 with decor focusing on Old World charm. But it's the lagoon-view rooms-some of which have a balcony-that are beautifully decorated in Empire or Venetian style with romantic views of the Venice lagoon, another must for honeymooners and lovers. Directly overlooking the Grand Canal with an incomparable view of Venice and just a short stroll from the Piazza San Marco, the Hotel Gritti Palace has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most romantic hotels in the world, attracting elite guests such as the British royal family, the Duke of Windsor, the Princess of Monaco and a bevy of Hollywood stars all the way up to today's most popular celebrities. And it's not like this is a new thing for the property, considering it was commissioned in 1525 as the residence of the Doge of Venice-Doge Andrea Gritti-and was later used as the official residence of the Vatican's ambassadors to Venice. As one of the most celebrated hotels in the world, there's no better place to take advantage of a honeymoon program-what the hotel describes as, "a fairy tale honeymoon in magical, dreamy Venice." Couples are welcomed with a bottle of wine and a bouquet of flowers in their hotel room where they'll spend a memorable night in the intimacy of a richly decorated double room or luxurious jr. suite or suite. The next morning, they're awakened leisurely to a daily breakfast served-at their discretion-in room or in the Club Del Doge restaurant. Various tours-individual, group, walking, boat, guided-may be organized through the hotel concierge. Tour guides are available upon request and honeymooners can arrange for a late check-out at 4:30 p.m.

It wouldn't be right to exclude Rome, the Eternal City, in a Europe honeymoon review and we would certainly be remiss not to mention the Hotel Hassler, which has been recognized as one of the prime hotels in Europe for more than 100 years. With an unbeatable location atop the Spanish Steps, it's one of Italy's most luxurious with 82 rooms and 13 suites, all of which are elegantly furnished with antiques while equipped with modern leisure. The suites feature exquisite boiserie and frescoes, original paintings by the Titian and Tintoretto schools and the furniture is in original 18th century Louis XV style. The large bathrooms are finished in precious Italian marble and 23-carat gold-plated faucets. Fine Italian cuisine is available at Imago, the Salone Eva Restaurant & Bar, and the Palm Court Garden Restaurant & Bar during the warmer weather seasons. Beauty and wellness treatments are also available at Amorvero SPA. The Honeymoon package includes four nights in a luxury deluxe accommodation, daily buffet breakfast or room service, continental breakfast, a bottle of Prosecco (Italian sparkling white wine) in room upon arrival, daily fresh fruit in room, a special gift from the hotel's management from the Amorvero Home Collection, a romantic dinner at panoramic, Michelin-starred Imago, with Rome's most breathtaking views and creative Italian cuisine, plus guaranteed upgrade from deluxe to an exclusive grand deluxe double room.

Despite its recent financial woes, there's no place like Greece and the Greek Islands for a truly classic honeymoon experience and indeed, many of its island resorts were built primarily with romance in mind. At Cavo Tagoo Resort on Mykonos, for example, the overall seductive design screams romance and intimacy-everything from the infinity pool overlooking the blue Aegean Sea, to the chic, luxurious and comfortable rooms and suites, all designed to embody a contemporary minimalist island aesthetic while remaining true to the traditional character and architecture of the Cycladic Islands. All modern amenities and conveniences are provided to ensure an experience of utter comfort in an elegantly minimalist and relaxed chic setting, while excellent touches of luxury are added such as jacuzzi tubs and private pools. The Cavo Tagoo Spa is also designed with a focus on classic Greek beliefs and legends and has been ideally placed in a unique location immersed in Cycladean light, facing Delos, the birthplace of the mythical God of the sun, Apollo. Its mission, they say, "...is to fuse the latest in international spa trends with a simultaneous, traditional Greek approach to wellness and beauty in our award-winning treatments and products. The Cavo Tagoo Spa Experience is an indigenous journey of the six senses-see, smell, touch, hear, feel, and experience." Couples can also take tours to Delos, charter boats or rent cars for trips to the Mykonos town.

On Santorini, honeymoon and lovers will be mesmerized by the Andronis Luxury Suites, a breathtaking all-suite boutique hotel that sits high above the sea with panoramic views of a volcano or caldera soaring into the sky across the water. The property offers five different suite categories with the first three offering spacious living areas, separate bedrooms and private, seaview verandahs, while the exceptional suite category offers a jacuzzi and a jet pool, while the pool suite offers an infinity pool overlooking the sea. Needless to say, there's plenty of 21st century comforts and amenities including satellite TV, CD player, wireless internet and international telephony-all offered in a classical but timeless island setting. The onsite restaurant serves local cuisine with traditional recipes that include virgin olive oil, fresh vegetables, Greek herbs and succulent meats, blended with organic ingredients and elements of nouvelle cuisine to create a superlative menu-all washed down with some of Santorini's famous local wines, cultivated from the island's very own vineyards. There is also a special selection of international wines. Mare Et Sanus Spa, inspired by Greek nature and the healing power of the gods, offers massages and body treatments or even a complete Day Spa Program. Local ingredients such as propolis, tomato, cucumber, orange, fig, cinnamon and almond are all part of the spa's unique, different treatments that relax, rejuvenate and revitalize.

It's not possible to list European honeymoon and romance choices without mentioning Paris, the City of Light and Love, where romance fuses with culture. Which is why couples will enjoy celebrating the centennial of the Hotel Lutetia-a property that calls itself a "...modern-day reflection of the belle epoque and Art Deco periods; the embodiment of contemporary, stylish Parisian living." Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, it's within walking distance of the Seine, the Musee d'Orsay, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the boutiques and designers' studios on the Left Bank. Views of the nearby Eiffel Tower can be enjoyed from many of the rooms and suites where the classic styling of the 1930s is combined with all the modern amenities. In fact, the sculpted Art Deco facade and welcoming statue of Gustave Eiffel, along with pictures of artists who once lived here, attest to the fact the hotel is full of artistic surprises. But while it's not a honeymoon or romance spot for everyone, it's ideal for couples who enjoy the arts. Even today, it's a meeting place for artists, writers and politicians, with the lobby boasting a lively edginess with displayed works of art by renowned contemporary artists such as Arman, Cesar, Philippe Hiquily, Perrin and Thierry Bisch. Surrounded by Art Deco architecture, period furniture, crystal chandeliers and the sounds of jazz music drifting through from the highly popular Lutetia Bar, this is a place truly immersed in a lively Parisian atmosphere.

But for those who want to honeymoon outside of the City of Light, there's a great option in sunny St. Tropez-the Chateau de la Messardiere, the 75-room and 6-suite Leading Hotels of the World property with a history that goes all the way back to the seventh century. Today, it's a beautifully restored, five-star beauty that sits near the beautiful French Riviera and combines traditional beauty with contemporary flair. It's a great honeymoon spot and for couples who want to combine a lovers' solitude with a little seaside fun. The different room categories offer a variety of views, but for the best romantic experience, book either the deluxe room with views from the terrace or the balcony to the countryside and the gardens, or even better, the Prestige Room with large private terraces and breathtaking views of the sea from the room and the terrace. The Chateaux spa offers a variety of body treatments and fitness equipment, but the truly pampering experience here is the gourmet restaurant Les Trois Saisons, reputed to be one of St. Tropez's best dining addresses and open evenings only. The hotel claims that the restaurant is "...the perfect venue for a romantic dinner for two or with friends," because Les Trois Saisons serves refined and creative Mediterranean-style cuisine in a truly exceptional ambiance. The restaurant's huge terrace offers sweeping views over the beaches of Pampelonne. The wine selection, by the way, is as sweeping as the panorama with over 400 wines and champagnes from France and the world over, with new wines being added every year.

There's still another take on a resort stay on the French Riviera with a relatively new property near St. Tropez-La Reserve Ramatuelle, a 23-room and -suite boutique hotel with an additional 12, 4- and 5-bedroom rental villas on site. It's the boutique aspect, of course, that lends itself to honeymooners or lovers, with each of the rooms and suites enjoying their own private garden or terrace. All of the modern amenities are included, of course, with drop-dead gorgeous views of the Mediterranean thrown in for free. The hotel's restaurant and bar promises "...meticulously flavored tastes of the south, that are subtly combined for pleasure, as well as health." But it's the spa here that's the real spoiler. It even includes a 6-day program designed to focus on the personal health objectives of the guest with the goal of achieving long-term health improvement and "...maximize the future life potential of each participant." Still another program is called Discovery Day, where guests get to sample the unique spa offerings, such as baleneotherapy, of their choice, exfoliant or wrap, a 50-minute body treatment, jet shower and lunch. Then there's the Creme de la Mere, which they say is exclusive skin care with the goal of relaxation and pure pleasure and includes two regenerating facials and body treatments.

For a truly fairy tale honeymoon, look no further than Europe's own fairy tale city-the beautiful and wonderfully preserved city of Prague in the Czech Republic. This is a city, in fact, that stands for many things-music and theater, Kafka and Mozart, beer and dumplings-but especially for its romantic, charming and unforgettable atmosphere. So what could be more romantic for your couples than booking into The Iron Gate Hotel & Suites, set in a 14th century building located in the heart of Prague's Old Town, in a picturesque, cobbled side street just steps from the famous Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square-the perfect choice for enjoying the wonders of Prague, in spacious, elegant and historical surroundings. The Iron Gate Hotel & Suites offers 43 unique rooms and suites, each with a different layout, view and decor. This beautiful landmark, set in the privacy of an inner courtyard with unforgettable atmosphere, is certainly one of the hidden gems in Prague. Most rooms and suites are decorated with original 14th to 18th century frescoes or painted ceilings and some Royal Suites even offer two bathrooms and a jacuzzi. Room and suite amenities include DVD player with a selection of over 80 DVD movies available free of charge, in-room Internet connection, minibar, alarm/clock radio, satellite and cable on 28-inch large-screen TV, ETRO Designer toiletries and luxury linens. The hotel has a 2-night Romantic & Honeymoon stay in one of its luxurious jr. suites or 1-bedroom Royal Suites. The program includes Mercedes car transfer from and to the airport or railway station, welcome drink, full buffet breakfast or breakfast served in the room, flower arrangements in the room, a bottle of Bohemian sparkling wine, coffee and tea service, as well as a romantic 3-course candlelight dinner.

Talk to Atlas Cruises & Tours at 800-942-3301 to set up a honeymoon or romantic escape to Italy, France or Greece.

By: Rick Shively
Brought to you by Recommend Magazine and Atlas Cruises & Tours

We understood the challenges before us – to create a well-organized experience that would enable the ship’s 2,600 passengers to have just as good an onshore experience as we’d been providing to those sailing aboard our smaller ships for years. It meant rediscovering history, and working closely with local experts to design an extensive range of intriguing options. So, off I went to Europe as part of the advance team. Goodbye coral reefs.

Gaudi’s unique La Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona is still unfinished more than a century after it was begun.

I was aware that a grand tour of Europe and the Mediterranean became a rite of passage for the British in the 18th century, where privileged young men spent the time between their university education and the start of their career with an extended tour of continental Europe. By the late 19th century the Grand Tour had become an American phenomenon, and young men and women traveled the world visiting the great European cities and the ancient sites of the Mediterranean.

I remember reading Mark Twain’s “The Innocents Abroad” in college, which chronicled his own Grand Tour by steamship in 1867, and became one of his best-selling books of all time. To think that here I was, following in these grand footsteps as I helped to plan a similar experience for thousands of passengers.

As part of our preparations we visited each Mediterranean port to see everything passengers would see, and make sure we were ready to handle getting people off the ship and to the various sites. After all, we were taking more passengers on tour than we had ever brought to that area before.

Renaissance architecture abounds in Florence.

Over the next few weeks, our team would explore in detail with local experts the treasures of these great cities and ancient sites, trying to see them through the eyes of our passengers and drilling down to the finest details to design our tour plans.

My grand tour took me to Barcelona where I marveled at the modernist Antoni Gaudi’s famous cathedral, La Sagrada Familia; the Royal Palace in Monte Carlo, the dazzling residence and home to the Grimaldi family of Princess Rainier and the late Princess Grace; the statue of Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia in Florence, the center of the Renaissance.

Then there was Pompeii, the Roman resort tragically buried by volcanic ash from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., and one of the world’s most magnificently preserved ancient cities. And enchanting Venice with its famous canals, bridges and cobblestone streets, and the magnificent Doge’s Palace in St. Mark’s Square.

The ruins of Pompeii are a dramatic destination on a Grand Tour.

In Athens there were the glorious marble structures of The Parthenon, built in honor of Athena, goddess of wisdom. Then I traveled to Istanbul which has dominated the Straits of the Bosporus for 25 centuries and saw its 17thcentury Blue Mosque, renowned for its domes and minarets. And from Kusadasi I experienced Ephesus, a treasure of antiquity and historical legend where on its ancient streets Mark Antony and Cleopatra rode in procession and St. Paul preached against the goddess Artemis.

It was the grandest of tours. And in the summer, when Grand Princess finally debuted, all of our efforts paid off. The ship’s first Mediterranean season was incredibly successful. The ship was well received and the shore excursion program went even better than we even hoped and expected. Thousands of passengers experienced the collection of tours that our team had so carefully put together.

The ancient ruins of Ephesus are the main attraction in Kusadasi, Turkey.

I went on to spend five more years in Europe before coming ashore into Princess’ corporate office to oversee the shore excursion program for our 17 ships around the world. Although I will never forget my first glimpses of these iconic destinations, you could say my Grand Tour continues to this day. And the best part of my job is knowing that we create magical “Grand Tour” experiences for newcomers to the Mediterranean on every voyage, and that they’ll share in the awe of seeing these unforgettable places just as generations of travelers have over the centuries – including me.

Gondolas bob in the Grand Canal of picturesque Venice.

The Blue Mosque dominates the skyline of Istanbul.

What a Stress Free, Hassle Free way to travel to Europe? 

Leave all of the travel details to a tour operator. They provide you with comfortable transportation, several meals, a rich sightseeing program and much more.

Traveling can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to a country where English is not their first language. Something amazing happens when you feel comfortable.  Your senses have the luxury to stray from the detail and worry, finding in their place anticipation and wonder.  You'll feel comfortable staying in first class hotels located in clean, safe areas.

Save time and money. Spending hours in line to get into major attractions such as the Louvre or Vatican Museums can take all day. Groups have a separate entrance, and get to go in with little or no wait so that you have more time to enjoy the sites, and more free time in the city.

Nothing introduces you to the true flavors of your destination like fine local cuisine.  Included three course dinners are carefully planned to avoid the repetition of entrees.  From the tapas bars of Spain to the vineyards of Italy and France, the tour operator will include on your trip optional specialty dinners and plenty of free time to venture out on your own. For the evenings when dinners are not included, your tour director will have a number of suggestions for favorite nearby restaurants. After all, one of the best ways to learn about a foreign culture is to eat like the local do!

The tour buses are air conditioned are are equipped with emergency washrooms.  The bus normally accommodates 53 seats, but they install fewer seats (44) for extra leg room.

If buses are not for you, tour operators have many other options including city stays, rail packages and river cruises through Europe.

There are hundreds of tour operators you can choose from, however some have been in the business for over 50 years and have proven over time that they offer consumers the best value and service. Check with a travel agent if you need assistance finding a reputable operator.

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:

| England Tours | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

We also have specialty European Tour Operators sites:

Contiki Tours | Cosmos Tours | General Tours| Gate 1| Globus Tours | Insight Tours | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours

If you are thinking of purchasing a new pair of shoes, there are no other shoes that offer the comfort and style of TOMS Shoes. TOMS Shoes come in a variety of colors and styles, for both men and women, and with such a selection of beautiful, well made shoes, you can be sure to find the the perfect pair of TOMS Shoes for you. Just visit our website, toms.com, and come explore the wide variety of quality shoes at an affordable price. And when you buy a pair of TOMS Shoes, you are not only getting a pair of comfortable and stylish shoes for yourself, but with TOMS One for One Movement, everytime someone buys a pair of TOMS Shoes, a pair is given to a needy child in a developing country.

TOMS Clothing is also available. Help a good cause and find TOMS Shoes Coupons. We found Coupons for Toms at Shopaholicmommy.com. TOMS Shoes are the perfect travel shoe - try it for your next trip! Of course TOMS are more of a Spring and Summer shoe - so whether you are traveling to Italy, Spain, Australia, Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia or Egypt.

Exporations tours bring you up close and personal with destinations from Italy and Australia to Egypt, Asia and Peru. What's special about this unique brand? With a group size of no more than 28 passengers on every departure, you'll gain access to historic sites and exlusive expeirnces so that you will have a more personal journey.

Culinary classes, meals with local, sightseeing off the beaten path, plantation tours, wine tastings and culturally immersive acitivities open you eyes, your mind and your heart to what these destinations are really all about.

The power of small groups:

Explorations combines the benefits of escorted travel with the more personal and interactive experiences of small group touring. Travel as part of a group of individuals. With just 16-28 passengers , Explorations tours go where larger groups can not.

Engage your senses:

There are many ways to experience the world.

Taste: Food and drink – the stuff of life. Sampling the local cuisine is one of the best ways to participate in our world’s cultures. Let your palate be your guide. Whether it’s rolling up your sleeves for a cooking class or indulging in a local delicacy, culinary adventure awaits.

Live: On an Explorations tour, your accommodations are more than a place to lay your head. They are highlights of the journey, bringing you closer to the soul of the destination. Relax in comfort when you stay in quality, authentic hotels, resorts and villas that reflect the local culture.

Explore: At the heart of Explorations is the desire to really explore the world. From ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and the “Lost City” of Machu Picchu to a relaxing ride aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, every tour brings you up close and personal to the best our world offers.

Connect: Venture off the beaten tourist path when you meet the locals and interact with them in various ways from sharing a meal to mingling with them in the community. Learn the rhythms of daily life. Come away with a truer sense of who they are – and who you are, too.

 

After Explorations

Return home with great stories, sharp memories, and a new perspective.

Start "exploring" this new vacation experience today, by browsing the 15 exciting Collette Explorations tours.

A rather simplistic answer could be that you won’t really see Europe on a cruise ship.  You’ll see piers and ports which are usually industrial areas that you will want to hurry through to catch the tour bus that will take you on a tour of the region for a few hours. So you’re back to the land tour option, and a brief one at that.  For example, a cruise of the Mediterranean stops in Rome, well that’s not true.  The port of Rome is really the city of Civitavecchia, which is 50 miles from Rome and takes about one and a half to two hours by bus. So, if your ship is in port for 12 hours you will be spending almost a third of your precious time ashore traveling to and from the ship. You will have time to see a few, (very few if you are traveling in the summer months,) of the sights and perhaps enjoy an espresso or gelato before your bus ride back to the port.  Another popular port of call is Barcelona, where you are usually in port for 6 to 8 hours.  The port is close to the city, but it is not nearly enough time to see and taste what this wonderful city has to offer.  Other cruises, begin in Barcelona, but include no time to enjoy the city - you arrive into the airport and transfer straight to the ship.  Another popular cruise port is St. Petersburg, Russia.  Most ships stay around 12 hours, which only gives you time for a run-through of the Hermitage, a glimpse of Peter-Paul Fortress, a blini and then back to the ship.

Shore excursions on cruises can also be quite expensive.  To spend the day in Rome could easily cost $150 to $200 USD pp. If you are taking a cruise that has several ports of call, you could be talking about spending as much on your sightseeing tours as you did on your cabin.

Now don’t misunderstand me, I love cruising! The leisurely dining, great entertainment, breakfast on the balcony, cocktails at sunset, unlimited ship-board activities, unpack once for the entire trip and sleeping in the same bed every night are all wonderful, but not, in my opinion, a way to really get the flavor and see a country.  Cruises also offer a wonderful advantage to families by having programs to keep the children occupied on sea days versus trying to entertain them on a bus.

On the other hand, land tours are not the total panacea. There’s that suitcase to pack and unpack every few days and a different hotel. Depending on the itinerary, you would experience long bus or train rides between your highlighted cities.  The plus side is that there will be much more time for sightseeing. and if you plan properly and in advance, free time to visit areas on your own, unhurried and in depth.  A ten day tour of Italy for example, will typically visit at least the three major cities of Rome, Florence and Venice, giving plenty of time to visit museums and cathedrals, small shops and mysterious back streets, as well as wonderful restaurants & trattorias.  However, keep in mind that unlike your cruise ship, not all (if any) of your meals will be included in the price. Talk to a travel agent to find the best tour option for you.  Many itineraries have now been designed to give you up to 3 nights in each city so there is less packing and unpacking.  You can also choose to travel in smaller groups of under 24 people to ensure more personalized service, or rather than by bus, travel by train.  Also look at itineraries closely to see how much sightseeing is included versus having to purchase optionals. 

There is one way to combine your apples and oranges and make a nice fruit salad, which is the packaged “cruise-tour” offered by many of the best ship lines and some tour operators.  This is your chance to combine the best of both.  Depending upon the cruise and the area involved, you can tour for five, six or seven days, then board your ship for a wonderful restful sail, and even make brief visits to other cities. 

No matter how you travel, Europe is filled with gems, amazing history, architecture and cuisine, so you are sure to enjoy your vacation. The key is knowing what to expect in advance so you are not disappointed. 

Europe cruise versus a Europe tour? Well, what ever "floats your boat."  Bon voyage and/or happy touring!

Italy...1500 miles of undiluted history of art, architecture and above all, human endeavour. A cross section of 3000 years of history, beautifully displayed, tangibly visible and also “exhausting”.

Every moment of this tour is a constant reminder of human ingenuity and fallibility. An exhaustive trip to the roots of western civilisation. A trip of a lifetime.

From the primordial and indigenous tribes of the Italian Peninsula, to the nomadic tribes of Asia Minor, the exciting Greek influence, the glories of the Roman empire, the gloom of the dark ages and the Barbaric hords, the Arab and Norman invasions, the sophistication of the Swabe dynasty, the apotheosis of the Italian Renaissance, the gradual decline, the Spanish and French invasions and finally the utopic dream come true, the unity of Italy in 1861.

Italy is not only a beautiful and fascinating country, it is also a beautiful way of life. Every facet of this country is to be experienced, understood and frequently pardoned. It is sometimes confusing and yet proud, chaotic and efficient at the same time, a world-leading industrial and financial reality and yet politically a banana republic. A country of extreme contradictions. A country of sailors and poets, a country of frustrations and indifference.

Every moment on the Insight “Best of Italy” is aimed to share with you a whirlwind experience of a country worthy of many repeat visits, a taste of (always) better things to come, never a dull moment. You leave with a lingering feeling of enrichment and an extraordinary feeling of humility, as well as a sense of achievement.

For all the above reasons and many more, you have to experience the truly Best of Italy!