Triplalot

I researched this for a similar pre cruise stay in July and decided on the Hilton Molino Stucky which is only one stop on the Blue Line from the Port. It is on Giudecca so a short shuttle is required to the main sites, however the Hilton operate a free shuttle and we will probably also purchase 72 hour tickets for the Blue Line so we have a choice, and can easily visit other islands.

There is plenty to see at Port Vell. Aside from the Aquarium there is a long promenade which is perfect for a stroll and if you walk down adjacent to Passeig de Colom (wide main road) to Mirador La Colom you will find yourself at the bottom of the famous La Rambla with a selection of shops, market stalls, street entertainers and bars leading up to Place de Catalunya. Behind La Rambla is the Gothic section and some nice shopping areas. You will find plenty to keep you occupied. To reach the beach you want to go the other way on Passeig de Colom towards Ronda Litoral and Barceloneta. If you carry on following the water/marina you will reach the beach area in about 10 minutes. The whole area is quite well signposted and easy for pedestrians. You can also flag down taxis quite easily. Forgot to mention there is a nice modern shopping centre and Port Vell too. Enjoy your trip.

I (or should I say We) are renewing our wedding vows for our Silver Anniversary on the Oceana in July. I deliberated over what to wear since although I wore the long ivory gown and train for our wedding I find light colors and white make me look pasty, so I have purchased a couple of gowns, a knee length light gold colored dress in a lacy fabric, and a long length gown in a grey silky material both of which will be suitable for formal dining. I did however purchase a small tiara with Swaroski crystals for a bit of fun (I may be fifty but I think bling is appropriate for the occasion) and splashed out on some lovely sparkly sandals and clutch bag which go with both dresses. I still don't know which I will wear on the day :). Also I bought them 2 sizes to small and am busy dieting my way into them and it's going well, a good incentive.

Hope the original poster had a good day and wore the dress of her dreams.

Thank you Tom most helpful :)

Hello all this is my first question so please excuse my stupidity :).

I'm not a complete cruising novice since my family have cruised previously, albeit more than 15 years ago with NCL (which we loved) and Disney (was OK), but this will be our first with P&O. I have been reading the forum posts and Oceana reviews so most of my questions have been answered, however I am hoping that somebody can provide details of where the ship is likely to be berthed at Venice Port from where we depart on July 1st? So that I can finalize my travel plans since we are not flying and do not have transfers with P&O (living on mainland Europe we have decided to drive and spend a few days in Venice prior to the cruise). Luckily this will be our first cruise without child who has happily reached adulthood. Please can anybody assist? Also I will be happy to receive tips to get the most out of our 14 day cruise.