Romance, Ruins & Rhodes

Piraeus

Athens exudes a unique charm through its mix of street markets,
vine-covered tavernas, souvenir stalls, ancient monuments and
high-rise buildings. For tourists, a plus is that most of the
capital's attractions are accessible by foot.

Athens was named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom.
According to mythology, she won the city after duelling against
Poseidon, god of the sea. Indeed, Athens can chart its history back
thousands of years and is regarded as the cradle of Western
civilisation. More specifically, it's democracy's birthplace, and
where philosophy, art and architecture were refined.

The city declined after the Classical Age, dwindling to nothing
but a town in the colourful area now known as the Plaka. It emerged
as independent Greece's capital in 1834.

Today, the city is bustling. And though the pollution, frantic
gridlock and dingy buildings are a striking contrast to the open
beauty of Greece's coast and islands, Athens is truly the country's
beating heart. Ancient wonders like the Acropolis, the Parthenon,
and the Temples of Zeus and Hephaestus ensure that the city will
always lure travellers.

Rhodes

Knights once used Rhodes to protect the Christian west from the
east. Today, the island remains subject to invasion, though from
tourists rather than intruders.

Said to be Greece's sunniest island, Rhodes has a well-preserved
and picturesque old city. The legendary Colossus of Rhodes, one of
the Seven Wonders of the World, guarded its harbour in antiquity.
Present-day visitors will find statues of deer. Nevertheless, the
old city has plenty of wonders to offer.

The rest of the relatively large island offers miles of beaches,
interesting archaeological sites and natural beauty spots. The best
beaches are on the east coast. Lindos is especially attractive.
Faliraki, on the other hand, is a developed resort area, bustling
with young visitors.

Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Alexandria

Alexandria is a vibrant and historic city located on the coast of Egypt. As the second-largest city in Egypt and a major economic hub, Alexandria offers visitors a unique blend of ancient wonders and modern attractions. Its rich history, Mediterranean charm, and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for travelers.

One of the main attractions in Alexandria is the Citadel of Qaitbay. Built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, this fortress offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is a testament to the city's ancient past. Visitors can explore the fortress, stroll along its walls, and learn about its fascinating history.

Another iconic landmark in Alexandria is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library and cultural center that aims to recreate the grandeur of the ancient Library of Alexandria. It houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and artifacts, making it a haven for scholars and researchers. The library also hosts exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's intellectual heritage.

For those interested in ancient history, a visit to the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is a must. This underground burial site dates back to the 2nd century AD and showcases a blend of Roman and Egyptian architectural influences. Visitors can explore the maze-like tunnels, admire the intricate carvings, and witness the unique fusion of cultures in this underground marvel.

Alexandria is also known for its beautiful beaches. The Stanley Beach is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Its golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim, indulge in water sports, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

When it comes to cuisine, Alexandria offers a diverse range of culinary delights. Seafood is the city's specialty, and visitors can enjoy fresh and delicious seafood dishes in one of the many seafood restaurants scattered along the coast. From traditional Egyptian dishes to international cuisines, Alexandria's dining scene has something to suit every palate.

In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Alexandria offers visitors a bustling cityscape filled with modern amenities. The Corniche, a picturesque waterfront promenade, is a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The city is also home to modern shopping malls, vibrant markets, and lively nightlife, ensuring that there is always something to do or see.

Transportation in Alexandria is convenient and efficient, with a well-developed public transportation system including buses and trams. Taxis and car rentals are also readily available for those who prefer more convenience and flexibility in getting around the city.

In conclusion, Alexandria offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or someone who simply wants to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of a cosmopolitan city, Alexandria has something to offer everyone. Its ancient wonders, beautiful beaches, and thriving food scene make it a captivating destination that should not be missed during a visit to Egypt.

Limassol

Then known as Lemesos, Richard the Lionheart visited
Limassol during the Crusades to free his betrothed from the
Byzantine sovereign. The subsequent wedding party remains
legendary, probably why modern Limassol is still a centre of
. This lively ambience is aided and abetted
by the fact that Limassol is the centre of winemaking on the
island.

Today, it's Cyprus's second-largest city with around
200,000 inhabitants. Many people travel to Limassol to enjoy its
lovely beaches, sidewalk cafés, and lively nightlife. Visitors can
take an evening stroll on the seafront Akti Olympion, followed by a
visit to a traditional
tavern for live music. The Old Town radiates from
the fishing harbour, with narrow streets lined with shops and
boutiques.

The foothills of the Troodos Mountains lie north of
the city and offer charming country walks that meander through
friendly villages. A quick drive to the Kourion, only nine miles
(15km) away, also offers historic sites such as The House of
Achilles, the Altar of Apollo, and Curium Beach.

Antalya

Antalya is a beautiful city located on the south-western Turkish coast, boasting a stunning natural landscape that is home to a rich culture and history. From its beautiful beaches, to its awe-inspiring mountains, to its historic ruins, Antalya has something for everyone.

The climate in Antalya is mild and sunny, making it a great place to visit throughout the year. Even during the winter months, temperatures remain mild, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll in the city and a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

Antalya’s tourist attractions are varied and plentiful. Its stunning beaches are a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. For those looking for a bit more adventure, there are plenty of activities to choose from, such as scuba diving, parasailing and even whitewater rafting. And, of course, there are plenty of shopping options for those who want to explore Antalya's traditional markets.

History buffs will be drawn to Antalya for its rich history and ancient ruins. The city is home to the ruins of Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations, which visitors can explore. There are also several archaeological sites scattered throughout Antalya, allowing visitors to explore the history of the area in greater detail. 

Antalya’s culture is vibrant and colorful, offering visitors a unique experience as they explore the city’s various attractions, be it its vibrant nightlife or its traditional markets. The city’s cuisine is also a highlight and visitors can find a variety of restaurants serving up traditional Turkish dishes such as mezes, lokma and kebabs. Antalya’s culture also extends to its art and music scene and many art galleries in the city showcase works from local artists.

Antalya is an idyllic holiday destination for those who want to experience all that Turkey has to offer. With its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, colourful culture, and wealth of attractions, Antalya offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an immersive cultural experience, Antalya has it all!

Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Situated in the eastern Mediterranean, Crete is by far the
largest of the many Greek Islands and offers something for every
kinds of traveller.

The island has experienced thousands of years of conquest and
habitation and has a complicated and diverse heritage. Sightseers
can investigate the remains of the ancient Minoan culture that
flourished here thousands of years before Christ. Years of Roman,
Venetian and Turkish rule have also left their mark and there are
fascinating sights scattered throughout the island.

Its northern coastline is home to busy holiday resorts and a
wealth of powdery white beaches where couples and families come to
soak up the Mediterranean sunshine. The gateway to the island is
the large, modern city of Heraklion, which is not so much an island
idyll as a vital commercial centre. Other major holiday resorts in
Greece include nearby Malia, lively Agios Nikolaos, Rethymnon with
its lovely old town, and Chania, to the west, which known for its
14th-century Venetian harbour and waterfront restaurants.

The wild interior of Crete offers some spectacular mountain
scenery drives and many opportunities for hikers and serious
cyclists. The White Mountains in the west soar to over 2000m, while
the more gentle mountains in the east hide the extraordinary
Lasithi plateau in their midst, which is dotted with white
windmills. The south coast of Crete is much more remote and rugged
than the north. It is crisscrossed with gorges and dotted with
unspoilt villages, pretty coves, and secluded beaches.

Kusadasi

Kusadası is a large resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast, and the centre of the seaside district of the same name within Aydın Province. Kusadası is 95 km (59 mi) south of İzmir, and about 60 km (37 mi) from Aydın. The municipality's primary industry is tourism. Kusadası is a hugely popular tourist destination due to its perfect combination of culture, amazing beaches and fantastic things to eat and do. The area features several well-known local beaches, including Ladies Beach, the beach at the centrum, the beaches between the Batıhan Hotel and the Nazilli Site, the beach at Güzelçamlı, and the Dilek Peninsula National Park beach, referred to by locals as simply Milli Park.

Cruising the Aegean Sea

Istanbul

The splendid city of Istanbul has many unique and fascinating
features. It is the only city in the world reaching across two
continents, with its old city in Europe and modern Istanbul
situated in Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. It is also
unique in having had capital status during two successive empires,
Christian Byzantine and Islamic Ottoman, and the legacy from both
is visible in the modern city today.

Istanbul's location on the water made it a much coveted site as
a commercial shipping port and military lookout, and as capital of
the Roman Empire, Constantinople, as it was known, became extremely
desirable as a centre of world trade, until Mehmet the Conqueror
claimed it for the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and it became the
imperial seat of the sultans. After the War of Independence the
capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the
commercial, historical, and cultural heart of Turkey today.

The charm and character of Istanbul lies in its endless variety
and jumble of contradictions. Its fascinating history has
bequeathed the city a vivid inheritance of Byzantine ruins,
splendid palaces, ancient mosques and churches, hamams
(bath-houses), and exotic bazaars. Modern Istanbul exudes trendy
bars and nightclubs, western boutiques, office blocks, and elegant
suburbs.