b2dave2003

12 hours ago, edinburgher said:

So beautiful and well preserved that some of them go on occasional  touring exhibitions.

 

 We viewed them  in Ravenna when on a land trip to a nearby town, but happened upon some by chance  on another land trip in a temporary exhibition in  N. Cyprus. They are definitely worth viewing.

I think that is what we are going to do--thanks

7 hours ago, alserrod said:

 

 

Hello, a long time ago I was in a cruise departing from Athens and arriving in Venice.

Ravenna was the last call before Venice. We did a full DIY and it was great. It is considered the best city to visit mosaics and it worthed a full day there.

Cruise staff told us we could grab a bus from the port to city centre and it was really enough. We walked around the city, had lunch somewhere and returned.

 

Another option is to visit San Marino but you will need an excursion.

 

 

this picture is mine. It has a lot of years

 

 

 

I think you sold me--thanks

23 hours ago, cruisemom42 said:

What Ravenna is most famous for are the many beautiful and well preserved mosaics.

 

Many people don't realize that after Rome fell to the barbarians, Ravenna became the de facto Western capital of the empire. At around the same time, the empire was becoming Christianized. These early mosaics are a sort of blend of ancient Roman techniques and themes, and newly imposed/added Christian themes. 

 

Ravenna is a small city and almost all of the places where you can see these beautiful mosaics (UNESCO listed) are centally located and walkable once you get to Ravenna -- the port is a 25-30 minute ride from the center of town. You can buy a pass that covers the five main sites, though there are several more that are not included.

 

More info:

https://www.ourescapeclause.com/ravenna-mosaics/

https://www.thecrowdedplanet.com/best-ravenna-mosaics/

 

Ravenna can also boast Dante's tomb (despite efforts by the Florentines to get back the body of one of the city's most illustrious sons). Dante lived in Ravenna after he was exiled from Florence due to his political beliefs.

 

There is also a nice archaeological museum with a number of finds from ancient Roman times; the remains of a Roman villa, complete with floor mosaics underneath a church; and many good restaurants, bakeries and coffee shops to tempt you.

 

 

Excellent information--thanks

On 1/29/2024 at 8:43 PM, CruiserBruce said:

" Best" would depend on your interests, budget, limitations...

History and culture with some walking.  I have a party of 6 so that itself has some limitations within the group.

Voyager of the Seas 3 June 2024

What do I do with a day in Ravenna?  Thought we were going to Venice but not happening, good thing I have already been there.  Ship is porting in Ravenna, what's the best way to spend the day?

Where can I find advanced tickets (June 2024) for St. Marks and Doges Palace?

On 6/24/2023 at 3:20 PM, Vineyard View said:

I have found that same tour guide on a ship excursion more than once. We just travelled last month. Took an 8 hour tour. He didn’t stop talking for 7 hours - only because in the two cities we visited he ‘allowed’ us 30 min in each to explore on our own. I was ready to pull my hair out. And he was one of those who didn’t want anyone to wander off on their own. On the next excursion we asked what time to meet back. The guide didn’t really want to let us do that, but I needed to sit for a while. We had a thoroughly enjoyable time on our own. When we met back up, several people told us we were the smart ones. 
Conversely, we’ve had fantastic private guides in multiple countries. You can always tell them that you would like x amount of time on your own. They won’t mind if the location is appropriate (probably not Kusadasi) and you are up front on that. 
So one never knows. It can be the luck of the draw. 
For us, we take our chances as much as possible with DIY and private tours. To cruisemom’s point. We booked a private for Kusadasi including the houses. It was an incredible day. 
have fun!

Who did you use for your tour?  Thanks

On 4/26/2023 at 5:06 PM, uncdds12 said:

In Europe, I always carry my passport in a front pocket that is hidden. I keep a copy in my pack and on my phone. I would not leave it in a safe.  You never know when you will need your passport. 

Next time you renew your passport get a passport card.  Easy to carry, official and you don't have to worry about losing your passport.  Also, always wear a money belt for the pickpockets.

22 minutes ago, suezyq50 said:

We have 4 tours booked with them in June, NCL Epic cruise.  Someone made the comment to me they were a "glorified taxi"  I am wondering how the guide was.

 

Thanks

I used them extensively in the past and will be using them exclusively for a 30-day trip next year.

16 hours ago, DT1304 said:

Thanks.

Much appreciated.

5 days until cruise time!!!!!

I am using letitride.  Nice after a 28 hour flight to have someone waiting for me.

Agree, some 3 party sites charge large fees for what you can do yourself

You are good with the ETAs

Any suggestions for a company that would pick me up at the airport and give a 1/2 day tour of the city?  It's for a party of 4 with luggage.

On 11/16/2022 at 9:32 PM, Whatsthedillio said:

 

I received this in my email tonight.. very confused as I am not sailing until February 2024... surely they aren't going to still require travel insurance?  

Just so everyone knows:  The insurance you purchase from Carnival doesn't include COVID coverage.  Just got my policy and the least expensive was $400.

On 11/16/2022 at 9:32 PM, Whatsthedillio said:

 

I received this in my email tonight.. very confused as I am not sailing until February 2024... surely they aren't going to still require travel insurance?  

Just so everyone knows:  The insurance you purchase from Carnival doesn't include COVID coverage.  Just got my policy and the least expensive was $400.

I got mine but had to send several e-mails.  Keep your documentation showing everything and go to customer service on the ship if it doesn't show up.

If you look at Carnival's website, it says you can use any at home test you just have to take a picture of the negative test with your id next to it and it has to be time stamped 24 hours prior to cruising.  They will be doing spot checks on people as they board.

I will be on the Splendor in Feb for 2 cruises.  Any recommendations for the following ports would be greatly appreciated:  Noumea, Lifou, Port Villa, Mystery Island, Wellington, Christchurch (Lyttelton) and Dunedin (Port Chanmbers). Also, any suggestions for Sydney?

Thanks David

In Amsterdam for a couple of days prior to the cruise.  What is the best way to get around the city?

25 minutes ago, BevLove said:

Looking for Advice for those of you who have toured in Naples area. 
 

This is our first time touring this area. May come back at another time. 

 

We are comparing these two with ItalyTours.eu:
 

Pompeii, Sorrento & Positano

vs.

POSITANO, AMALFI & RAVELLO

 

Would you recommend one vs the other? Pros and cons?
For those who have toured the area, we'd love to hear from you! 
Thanks!! 

Pompeii, Sorrento and Positano and you wont regret it!

On 11/10/2021 at 1:38 AM, Ashland said:

I think we've decided on the Banks Mansion hotel for our pre-cruise July 2022...thoughts?

Staying there myself after much research in Aug 22.

Looking for ideas for excursions at both.  Thanks in advance Dave

Any recommendations for a tour company out of Inverness for the Highland castles and Loch Ness?

4 hours ago, MONKEY20 said:

Hi we are arriving at the airport at 18.30 and need a hotel for one night before we cruise the next day.

Is it better to stay near airport or near cruise terminal. Also best way to get to hotel and cruise terminal and back to airport after cruise for 12oclock flight.

Many thanks 

Ian

Euro Business Taxi