Cruising the Mediterranean - Prt. 2
I will try to give you a taste of what we saw on Day 3 and 4 of our cruise.
Details are beginning to fade as time goes on so I'm feeling some urgency to get "recording" these events!
Genoa, Italy
The farmer, my favourite travel planner, was able to hire a local guide to walk us through this amazing Italian City!
We got up early to watch the ship dock at this renowned commercial port - it was surreal and beautiful.
The guided walking tour didn't start till after lunch so we had the morning to explore the Maritime Museum,
the street vendors along the old harbour, the pirates galleon, frescoed buildings, the famous aquarium, and some gelato of course!
The afternoon walking tour was fabulous. We were led through the narrow streets and arches
to beautiful piazzas (town squares), ornate buildings and fountains, elegant shops, tastes of fresh baked focaccia bread, homemade gelato (the best ever), Greek ruins, and all narrated beautiful by a very passionate local guide!
 |
| The Sala deli Specchi - which inspired the famous Hall of Mirrors in Versailles! |
 |
| Caught the photographer and the farmer in one of the giant mirrors. |
 |
| Porto Soprana - remaining gate in the ancient city wall. |
 |
| Palazzo Rosso |
 |
| San Lorenzo Cathedral - one of many black and white striped churches we saw wherever we travelled. |
 |
| Breathtaking elevated view of Genoa. |
Genoa (pronouced Genova by the Genoese) was one of our absolute favourite cities.
We rushed back to the ship for our 6 p.m. departure time.
While the ship cruised to our next port in Cannes, France - we did the compulsory emergency drill
followed by some fine dining - always such a treat!
Day 3 - exhausting and exhilarating!
Cannes, France
Arrived in Cannes at 7:30 a.m.
Today we took a ship excursion to Monaco, Monte Carlo & Nice.
The ship anchored and disembarkation was done by tender boat service - that was fun!
We were bussed to Monte Carlo, passing through Nice on the way.
Not many chances to take pictures out of the bus window but the drive along the coastline was stunning!
Soon we arrived in the Country of Monaco.
First stop was Monte Carlo - the famous casino surrounded by lush gardens
and mirror spheres.
 |
| The Casino is reflected in this mirror! |
 |
| Can you spot the photographer and the farmer in this one? |
Next stop the Prince's Palace and Saint Nicholas Cathedral
 |
| Changing of the guards at the Palace! |
 |
| The Palace view - overlooking the country of Monaco! |
Saint Nicholas Cathedral
where Princess Grace
is buried.
Her tomb always has flowers on it!
Inside the Cathedral!
Soon it was time to head back to Cannes and on to the MSC Orchestra!
 |
| Ship's Tender waiting to take us back. |
 |
| Another delicious meal with this elegant poached pear dessert was served to us in the ship's dining room. |
We relaxed on the deck and in our rooms as this floating hotel
sailed 348 nautical miles to the island of Palma de Mallorca.
In the meantime, here at home, we said our final good-byes to Marie Leis, my amazing Mother-In-Law. The memorial service was so beautiful and I am forever thankful to be part of this lovely family, raised by this ever loving, strong and faithful woman.
"All is over, hands are folded
On a calm and peaceful breast.
All is over, suffering ended
Now our mother is at rest"
Till next time ...... are you still reading after this very long post? A few more days on the cruise ship and then Italy - here we come!
What an amazing trip! We have never been to Genova, but hope to add that to our travels one day! You saw such amazing sites!
ReplyDeleteP.S. My condolences on the death of your dear mother-in-law. xo
Such an amazing trip. So smart to get a guide. You got some great photos of the detailed architecture and beauty that you were surrounded by. Love the part of the poem you shared in memory of dear mother in law. May God continue to comfort all who grieve the loss of her on this earth. Looking forward to more from your cruise.
ReplyDeleteWow! So much to see and take in ... the ornateness, the striped churches (?) the history, the fresh bread and gelato! It looks like such a wonderful time! We also found that getting a personal local tour guides add a new dimension!
ReplyDeleteAnd a good taste of Italy it was! Amazing photos of many interesting places I will likely never see with my own two eyes. Thanks for taking us on tour!
ReplyDeleteYour mother-in-law sounds like a lovely woman. May all the good memories bring you much joy in the days and years to come.
I'm totally enjoying your journey, Rosella! I'm off to your next post. May your mother-in-law rest in peace.
ReplyDelete