Hi everyone. We are so looking forward to this trip! As many of you know, I was just there a few weeks ago - the same time we will be there next year. The weather was gorgeous! mid to high 70's! Pack for an informal cruise. We may have one smart-casual night, which will be the dressiest you need to be. No formal attire is needed unless you WANT to wear it of course :-) And, we should definitely plan for a toga party! So start thinking about the accessories!
If you travel with us on our pre trip to Istanbul, you will need a wrap of some sort before going into the Blue Mosque - but this is actually provided unless you want to bring your own. Otherwise, plan for sunny weather, with occasional light showers that last only a few minutes, if even that. Shorts and t-shirts will be the norm during the day, and casual clothing in the evening. Comfortable walking shows are necessary, especially if doing Ephesus or our post tour in Athens when we go to the Acropolis. Streets are full of cobblestones, and good tennis shoes are a must!
The ship is 2 steps up from the Veendam in my opinion! You will be amazed at how lovely it is, and the food is outstanding - some of the best I have had on a cruise ship!
Shirley Valentine is one of my all-time favorite movies, and much of it is filmed in Mykonos. In addition to that one, I strongly encourage you to rent to movie "My Life in Ruins" as well - this is a more current movie made by the makers of "My Greek Wedding". It is a light, funny story of tourists in Athens, and takes you to some of the sights we will be visiting on our post trip package in Athens (Acropolis, the Plaka). It also visits Delphi, where some of you may want to extend your time in Athens to visit - it's a full day tour, but it will be offered to sign up for at the hotel for those who want stay one night on your own. I have been there, and it indeed is a very spiritual place to visit! It's a sweet, fun movie.
Jill