Mexico City - Exciting & Vibrant & More....

Just returned from this large metropolis (larger and cleaner than New York City) for a New Year's Eve Celebration. Stayed at the Marquis Reforma in a wonderful location, right next to the Palanco district, with it's many museums and large parks, great restaurants and bars.  The hotel is located on a boulevard where there were many tent vendors selling their wares, handmade and authentic. . The Street tacos and burritos were a treat to be enjoyed everywhere we went. 

Mexico City is a city of Districts within itself.  Whether you visit the Palanco, San Angel, the Hildalgo or the Famous Zocolo Historical area you will never get bored!  Great Night life and Wonderful walking, Except for the cracks in the sidewalks probably caused by the many Earthquakes.  As large as it is, it's surprisingly clean compared to other major cities of less population. It is family oriented and everywhere you look there are families out enjoying with each other.  Lots of Large parks afford a respite to the busyness of life in this city. 

A Myriad of activities and things to do. The Art & Cultural side with all of the vast museums make it impossible to be bored. You only have to walk around to find different and interesting aspects to this diverse city. There are several tourist areas with nice hotels and restaurants that make a visit that you will not be disappointed in. 

Did I mention Our Lady of Guadalupe (right outside of the city) and the Ruins - a short drive and worth a day trip. 

Scott - December / January 2023

September, 2023 -  Athens to Thessaloniki - Kusadasi, Turkey - Crete - Mykonos - Santorini and Milos

Let the "Journey" begin 

2 Pre Nights in Athens at the Athens Gate Hotel - Beautiful views of the Acropolis - block and 1/2 from the Plaka. 

Boarding the Celestyal Journey was quick and efficient and we had a Grand Suite which is actually 2 cabins wide, with that large of a balcony included.  Complimentary Champagne and fruit upon arrival, with complimentary hors'd'oevres each day, and complimentary room service and pressing. .    We actually had a concierge! 

The Suites and cabins are nicely appointed - good closet space and bathroom size. 

Island Hopping was so nice on a smaller ship, easy on and off. Shore excursions were informative and guides very well versed in describing the ruins, the towns.  The Guides were the best and So knowledgable.

All our excursions were well planned, and we did 7 in all.  2 were complimentary. .   

The Food was very good and locally sourced.

The STAFF from top to bottom were First Class - 5 1/2*+  all the way.  From Adrian and Pablo (Maitre d's) to Juan at the Shore Excursion desk, and our housekeeping staff. 

The best part of the Small Ship Experience was the Personalized Service that we received.  They treated us like VIP's, and we didn't have to spend a fortune to get that kind of Service. 

The Itinerary  

We discovered rich history and fascinating Culture in the Greek Islands.

Rugged and Stunning landscapes and charming villages. We had guided visits to Palace of Knossos and the Ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best preserved archaeological sites in the Mediterranean.

We visited quaint fishing villages and iconic historical sites.  With overnight stops in the bustling islands of Santorini and Mykonos, we had the opportunity to discover the lifestyle and indulge in authentic experiences. 

We enjoyed Greek and Mediterranean cuisine along with their wines and their Classic Lifestyle.