Living the Cruise Life

All of us have watched the movie Titanic at some point in our lives. Maybe watched even more than a couple of times, since it is one of the most watched films of contemporary times. The life on a ship looks so desirous, but the fear of hitting an iceberg brings us back to our senses. What if I tell you there’s a way to live that life without being apprehensive?

Imagine cruising, on a modern ship, just the way you want it, with no schedule to follow but your own. Indulging your taste buds at one of the widest-ranging dining options, or perhaps prefer a dinner and a show combination? Relax at some of the most spacious and modern staterooms before venturing out to experience the shore excursion of your choice right in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.

Our first stop was at Haifa, Israel

Considered one of the Middle East’s most picturesque cities, Haifa offers incredible sights everywhere you turn. It is also close to holy sites – travel to Galilee, Nazareth or Jerusalem. The views from Bahai Gardens on Mount Carmel, the largest hanging gardens in the world, are incredible, and make for a superb picture spot. 

Next, we dropped our anchor at Istanbul, Turkey

There's a new aura of excitement in Istanbul these days, as this centre of the Ottoman empire has become one the world's focal points for art, fashion, haute cuisine and nightlife. Of course, there's always an abundance of ancient monuments and grand mosques with stunning frescoes to see here, like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Head to any park and you'll see why tulips have long been the symbol of this city. 

Santorini, Greece

Whitewashed villages clinging to the sides of the sea cliffs have made the volcanic island of Santorini one of the most widely photographed places in the world. The island's charm and subtle mystery have even made it a target of speculation as the location of the lost city of Atlantis. The pictures that I clicked here garnered a lot of attention on Instagram.

Naples, Italy – The home of Pizzas and Piazzas!

Located on Italy's stunning Amalfi coast, a city rich in history, A tour around Naples' grand piazzas, cathedrals and castles took me back centuries. Naples is traditionally credited as the home of pizza. This originated as a meal of the poor, but under Ferdinand IV it became popular among the upper classes. Famously, the Margherita pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy after her visit to the city.

Florence/Pisa, Italy

How lucky to visit the Tuscan region, Florence & Pisa, resplendent in art and history. What's even more fortunate is that all the main attractions in Florence are centrally located for the perfect walking tour. I could never miss talking funky pictures at The Leaning Tower of Pisa 

Rome, Italy

With two and a half thousand years of history, art and culture, it is no wonder Rome is one of the most visited cities on the planet. Be it the masterpieces of the Vatican or walking into the past with visits to ancient relics, historic monuments and legendary museums, Rome is very refreshing. Cannot miss sipping on an espresso in a quaint cafe.

Every day was a souvenir on and off the cruise. Experiencing the best of Europe off-board while engaging in activities such as Dance and Music Nights, Bowling and Spa, I was never bored even on-board! The ship even had an Ice Bar! 

Experiencing all of the above, sun-bathing at the pool-side, quietly listening to the ship make its way through the still yet deep waters of the sea, was the best time of my life. So, when are you planning to live the best of your life?