Spirit Nov. 20 Adriatic Idyll & Florence Travelogue

Awesome pictures, thanks!! Great screen name, too! :)

Livorno is the gateway to the region of Tuscany, which as Goethe once observed, looks like Italy should. Fortunately for today's visitor not much is changed in the two centuries since the German poet was himself a tourist in Toscana. The remarkable wealth of beauty here mellowed to a golden patina by history and tempered by the hand of man, awaits us.

Everywhere there is history, from the Etruscan stronghold of Fiesole, to the Roman colony of Volterra to the Renaissance splendor of Florence, Pisa, Sienna in San Gimignano. If the landscape evokes a sense of the familiar is because the great masters have used it as a backdrop for their great works. Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci were archtypal Tuscans and Renaissance men who headed an extensive list of geniuses who lived worked and created within a single period of time.

When I was here last time in 2012, I took the Florence, Pisa & David tour. Today, I am embarking on the 10 hour Discover Cinque Terra excursion. We departed by coach from Livorno pier to Manarola, an enchanting village with a tiny and typical fisherman's wharf. After touring the village, weboarded a boat that took us to Vernazza, a picturesque fishing village where we enjoyed a bit of free time. We then proceeded to Monterossa, perhaps the prettiest village of the Cinque Terra.

After a short tour of this interesting and picturesque village that closely hugs its small harbor, we enjoyed a taste of the Cinque Terre probducts,, bruschetta with olive oil and pesto and glass of wine. After that we had more free time to purchase lunch (at her own expense) and do some last minute shopping.

Afterwards, we met our guide for a five-minute train transfer to the Levanto, where our motor coach was waiting to drive us back to Livorno pier and the Seabourn Spirit.

After dinner at guest entertainer violinist Greg cott’s table if was off to the Amundsen Lounge for Harry the Piano’s blistering performance of virtuosity which was enjoyed by all. After this long day, it was now time for a restful journey to Seabourn slumber land.

Cinque Terra Freeze Frames:

Manarola 1 of 5 Vineyards on Shear Slopes

Manarola 2 of 5 Vineyards on Shear Slopes

Manarola 3 of 5 Note monorail track going up the center of vineyard

Manarola 4 of 5 Monorail cars for binging harvest to market

Manarola 5 of 5 Goodby Manarola

Photos Continued in my next post…

Vernazza 1 of 5 Lines and creases in rocks tell Geologists a story

Vernazza 2 of 5 Church

Vernazza 3 of 5 Conventional laundry drying

Vernazza 4 of 5 Efficient land management

Vernazza 5 of 5 Flower shop

As Always, life aboard Seabourn Spirit is great.

Thank you for taking the time and effort to post this.

Great pictures Paul just wish you were at Sky bar now :-)

The principality of Monaco is the epitome of Riviera chic. This tiny enclave of 370 acres surrounds a sheltered harbor that draws yachts from around the world to enjoy the beautiful scenery, mild wether and elegant casino. Glamorous Monte Carlo is one of Monaco's four quarters, which also include La Condamine, the business district; Monaco-ville, the capital; and Fontvieille, an area built on reclaimed land. Ruled by Prince Albert II, Monaco has a population of over 32,000, of which about 16 percent are citizens, or Monégasques.

Today I took the five-hour Nice and St Paul de Vence tour. We began the tour with a scenic drive to Nice passing by the medieval village of Eze. We then left the coach for a pleasant walk through the old town of Nice, located close to the sea, and the famous Promenade des Anglais. We strolled around the Flower Market Square and peeked into the local shops and art galleries; then we reboarded the coach and drove inland to St Paul des Vence.

We immediately embarked on a walking tour through the narrow streets of this medieval walled village. Its tall ramparts still contain charming, historic houses, and we were able to take the time to explore the wonderful shops, art galleries and boutiques. I understand why St Paul de Vence was discovered in the 1920s by painters such as Signac, Modigliani, Bonnard and Soutine. From the terrace of one of the many local cafés we enjoyed the beautiful view over the valley, the Riviera and the sea.

Nice Freeze Frames:

Niece — Architectural Details Are Painted on the 2 Bldgs. On The Right

Niece — Miniature lady Liberty ~ 3 ft. (1 metre) Tall

Niece — Promenade de Anglais

Niece — Promenade de Anglais and Beach (pebbles not sand)

Niece — Opera House

Photos Continued in my next post…

St Paul de Vence — Feline Meet and Greet

St Paul de Vence — Fountain

St Paul de Vence — Cemetery

St Paul de Vence — Narrow Passageway

Obstructed View of Monte Carlo Casino

As Always, life aboard Seabourn Spirit is great.

Marseille, France's second-largest city after Paris, is an exciting, cosmopolitan port comprised of some 16 distinct arrondissements or neighborhoods. A large Algerian contingent calls the city home, adding its own inimitable accent. Much of the city's oldest section, Le Panier, was destroyed by German troops during World War II, sparing only three fine old edifices, including Hotel De Ville (City Hall). Two fortresses, St.-Jean and St.-Nicholas, guard the harbor entrance, while Marseille's oldest church, Basilique St.-Victor, is virtually a fortress as well. Marseille is a fine city for touring on foot, with sufficient cafes to provide refreshments along the way.

Today I chose the 8.5-hour Château Neuf du Pape & Avignon tour. Beginning in the early 12th century, the seat of Catholicism was located here at Avignon, and a succession of nine popes reigned from 1307 -1376. Also, long before the popes arrived, Chateauneuf wines were made here and their namesake village was important center in the Rhône region. With the pontiff's arrival, word of the magnificent wines produced in the region began to spread. This delicate nectar is known as the Pope's wine, and his prestigious name became the internationally acclaimed Chateauneuf du Pape.

We visited the Pavilion Slalli and the winery before a tasting of three of their fine wines, along with bread and cheese. From the vineyard, we continued to Avignon—the city of art and culture in the Vaucluse region. Sprawling along the banks of the Rhône River, Avignon is most famous for being home to the seven popes who chose to reside here during the 14th century rather than In Rome.

We then enjoyed a delicious three-course lunch at the Auberge de la Treille. Later in the afternoon, we visited the Pope's Palace. The incredible Palace of the Popes was constructed primarily during the papacies of Benedict XII and Clement VI and was one of the largest buildings of its time. I enjoyed visiting this fascinating fortress/residence, which consists of sumptuously decorated chambers, chapels and passages.

We were given free time to browse the charming streets before concluding our day with the 90 minute return drive to the pier in Marseille and the Seabourn Spirit.

Palace of the Popes Freeze Frames:

Palace of the Popes Exterior 1 of 5

Palace of the Popes Exterior 2 of 5

Palace of the Popes Exterior 3 of 5

Palace of the Popes Exterior 4 of 5

Palace of the Popes Exterior 5 of 5

Photos Continued in my next post…

Palace of the Popes From Inner Courtyard 1 of 5

Palace of the Popes From Inner Courtyard 2 of 5

Palace of the Popes From Inner Courtyard 3 of 5

Palace of the Popes From Inner Courtyard 4 of 5

Palace of the Popes From Inner Courtyard 5 of 5

Photos Continued in my next post…

Palace of the Popes Interior 1 of 5

Palace of the Popes Interior 2 of 5

Palace of the Popes Interior 3 of 5

Palace of the Popes Interior 4 of 5

Palace of the Popes Interior 5 of 5

Photos Continued in my next post…

Palace of the Popes Bridge Extension Over Rhône River 1 of 3

Palace of the Popes Bridge Extension Over Rhône River 2 of 3

Palace of the Popes Bridge Extension Over Rhône River 3 of 3

Auberge de la Treille Luncheon Restaurant 1 of 2

Auberge de la Treille Luncheon Restaurant 2 of 2

As Always, life aboard Seabourn Spirit is great.

Great pictures Paul just wish you were at Sky bar now :-)

I wish I was at the Sky Bar as well! :( I spent one night in Barcelona before an early morning flight home the next day. I saw your sailaway after you left the harbor. The sun was waning and I watched until Spirit sailed out of view from my window about 50 minutes. I hope every one had a blast on the crossing!! :)

Salvador Dali saw Perpignan as the center of the universe. Once you see the crystal-clear Basse River running through its center, flanked by immaculate gardens, and feel it's marvelous atmosphere, you may agree. Situated at the base of the Pyrenees, this former medieval capital of Majorca (1278 to1344) grew to become an important commercial center, and is today the second-largest Catalán city, behind Barcelona.

From the pier in Port Vendres, proceed directly to Perpignan to begin your day with a visit to the palace of the Majorcan Kings. Next we walked through the old town to see the Town Hall — a 14th-century stone structure and the Cathedral of Saint-Jean, begun in 1324 and completed in 1509.

Next we went to the symbol of Perpignan — the 14th century red brick town gate known as le Castillet. Once a prison, and now a museum, this gate is a last vestige of the fortifications that surrounded the city until the early 1900s. Before leaving this magical place we journey to the city center for refreshments which, was a wonderful way to end our visit to Perpignan, thereby sealing a memorable day during our port call to Port-Vendres.

Port-Vendres Freeze Frames:

Old Town Hall 1 of 2

Old Town Hall 2 of 2

Interesting Combination of Building Materials

Interesting Architecture

Christmas Ornaments

Photos continued in my next post …

Cathedral of Saint-Jean Exterior 1 of 2

Cathedral of Saint-Jean Exterior 2 of 2

Cathedral of Saint-Jean Interior 1 of 3

Cathedral of Saint-Jean Interior 2 of 3

Cathedral of Saint-Jean Interior 3 of 3

Photos continued in my next post …

Town Gate le Castillet — Once a Prison, Now a Museum

Church 1 of 2

Church 2 of 2

Arched Entrance 1 of 2

Arched Entrance 2 of 2 Details

Photos continued in my next post …

Stained Glass and “Stone Glass”

Moat Around City

Farewell To Perpignan

Port-Vendres Harbor 1 of 5

Port-Vendres Harbor 2 of 5

Photos continued in my next post …

Port-Vendres Harbor 3 of 5

Port-Vendres Harbor 4 of 5

Port-Vendres Harbor 5 of 5

Clock / Bell Tower

Pier Side Folkloric Dancers

As Always, life aboard Seabourn Spirit is great.

Disembarkation always goes quickly and smoothly on Seabourn. Once ashore I found out there was no passport control so I simply walk through the green quote nothing to declare" Wayne and exited the terminal where my driver was waiting to take me to the hotel. After an early morning wake-up call I departed the hotel and the black of night to the airport for my 6 AM flight home. The flights home were very smooth and uneventful. I arrived at my front door at 2:30 PM thereby officially ending mice 12 night Adriatic eyes roll on Seabourn Spirit.

All good things must come to an end and this sailing was no exception. From arrival at the cruise terminal in Venice and all the way through departing the terminal in Barcelona it was a typical world-class Seabourn experience.

I was really looking forward to the itinerary and the chance to complete my “little triplet sailing trifecta” by now completing at least 1 cruise on the Pride, Spirit and Legend. The ship and the overall Seabourn experience have been well maintained.

My suite stewardess Maria kept things shipshape the entire voyage as well as my mini fridge stocked with my preferences and made certain my dry-cleaning was returned in a timely manner.

The wait staff in the restaurant, bars and lounges were all top-notch. They were all smiling, accommodating and willing to fulfill any passenger requests. Executive Chef John Pugh and his galley team did an outstanding job on this cruise and I considered the Galley Market Lunch "Extra Special."

The Entertainment department, of course, was a mainstay of the cruise. From the hardworking Cruise Director Suzanne Gayle and her assistant Robert Brendan, the in-house band “Synchrony” and Club Duo “Days of 8ight” aka Darlene & Raleigh and guitarist Paul Anderson coupled with Guest Entertainers Comedian Al Brown, Violinist Greg Scott, Harry the Piano, Guest Chef Doug Psaltis two morning cooking demonstrations and taste test, Lecturer Geoff DeVito and last but not least Multi-Instrumentalist Oli Nez. All in-house and guest entertainers gave two performances that appealed to all tastes. Seabourn signature standards, Liars Club and Rock The Boat (relocated to The Club due to weather) were well attended. Overall, the entertainment was great!

I did a shore excursion in each port and enjoyed them all. Destinations Manager Sara and her team made certain everything went of like clockwork. The tour operators provided interesting tours with excellent guides and drivers.

I will now leave you with some views from my hotel and Seabourn Spirit leaving the Barcelona Harbor on her penultimate Trans-Atlantic Crossing. I saw the Spirit soon after she cleared the breakwater. When daylight waned, and her running lights illuminated, I did not take my eyes off of her until she sailed out of the field of view from my window for a total of about 45 minutes. Oh, how I wished I could have been aboard her.

Farewell Freeze Frames

View From Barcelona Hotel — Right on the Breakwater

View From Barcelona Hotel — Looking East

View From Barcelona Hotel — Looking East (note cable car about to enter station)

Seabourn Spirit Departing on Trans-Atlantic Crossing 1 of 2

Seabourn Spirit Departing on Trans-Atlantic Crossing 2 of 2

As Always, life aboard Seabourn Spirit is great.

Paul--to complete your Spirit story, why not join the final crossing?

Great to see Spirit leaving Barcelona. I was onboard!!

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PeaSea8ch - Paul - we were also on this cruise (it was 20th October actually!) and have enjoyed all your pictures to remind us of a particularly pleasant trip - partly due to the lovely staff on board, and also the weather, after the fog in Venice and the rough day when we could not dock in Ancona.

Thanks for the reminders.

Paul--to complete your Spirit story, why not join the final crossing?

Winnie — I have booked the final Legend sailing (right after the final eastbound crossing) from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome).

PeaSea8ch - Paul - we were also on this cruise (it was 20th October actually!) and have enjoyed all your pictures to remind us of a particularly pleasant trip - partly due to the lovely staff on board, and also the weather, after the fog in Venice and the rough day when we could not dock in Ancona.

 

Thanks for the reminders.

Lincslady — thank you for the kind words. I did not discover the typo in my thread title until it was too late to correct it and I forgot to email Host Dan to request him to "correct my typo." :o

PeaSea8ch,

Looking forward to meeting you on the last of the last little ship cruises. When we were on the Legend in Sept for the final cruise under the Tower Bridge we discovered that a number of our fellow passengers were also signed up for the cruise. It should be a blast --- until that final morning. I am not promising an absence of tears. Still wondering who our Allstar crew will include. I am still keeping my fingers and toers crossed for a final turn out of retirement for Capt. Anderssen to take the helm of the ship one last time! And after other CC'ers report on the final Pride cruise where she apparently went out with a whimper I hope Seabourn has plans to make this event special.

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