Mediterranean Cruise

October 6-18, 2011

42 Space Coast members visited 8 ports of call and ate 1357 meals all while consuming copious amounts of wine at every turn!  To say the voyage was a huge success would be a complete understatement.  How do you put into words how crystal blue the Mediterranean really is?  How do you describe roads like the Cote d’Azur along the French Riviera?  Or the opulence of Monte Carlo?  It is difficult at best and that was the first day.

Taking in the sights of Florence, Tower of Pisa, and Rome are something visitors are in awe of no matter how many times they see them.  In Pompeii, we were reminded that people flourished in an advanced society as far back as 79 A.D.  The drive along the Sorrento coast was both breathtaking and hair-raising.  It led us to Positano, where we would like to retire in a perfect flat perched on a cliff.  There is only one problem; there are no real estate agents in Positano because property never goes up for sale.  Houses are kept in the family forever.  Does that tell you how desirable it is?

In Sicily, tromping all over spilled lava from eruptions of Mt. Etna was thoroughly unique and visiting Taormina proved to be a highlight for many.  Taormina defines old world architecture, with classic splendor around every bend.  From seeing an active volcano, our next port took us to see the Drach Caves in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, large enough to take a boat ride.

Our last port was Marseille.  Perched on top of the city is a cathedral with stunning views in every direction.  Leaving the hustle bustle of Marseille, we drove to the seaside town of Cassis.  Go there if you ever get the chance and take a boat ride to see the Calanques.  The surrounding cliffs, yachts, and sailboats encircle one of the most picturesque beaches in the world.  Sadly, we got our last look at the crystal blue/green Mediterranean waters as we had seen every day of our cruise.  Fortunately, our trip is not over yet…..

Around every corner, everyone had their own experiences that made the trip phenomenal and unexpected. Whether it was a surprise scene, cafe, or chat with a local, we all had moments that made you want to stand still and take it in.

Each day, I tried to stand still and think, “Here you are...try to absorb the experience.” Then someone would come by and say that Happy Hour was starting!

Sharing the trip with 42 people meant 42 times as much fun for Clair and me! We really do like to help folks experience this big world around us. We thrive on the excitement of each person’s stories (and seeing the treasures found while shopping). On our last night, we had a farewell dinner, so the group could be together one last time before heading home

We recognized some of the group for ‘outstanding behavior’ for various reasons. I will not be able to remember all of the ‘honorable mentions,’ but here are a few:

• Joni Reynolds & Pam Townley for being the best ‘Bluebirds’ (We deemed them Bluebirds as they had never traveled to Europe.)
• Cheryl Sullivan & Bob Taylor for sharing their many bottles of wine with everyone
• Gail Berger for having the cutest outfits
• Charlene Wilson & Joann Kent for wearing stylish hats
• Brenda Vowles for not venturing off too far (although being at the bus pick-up in Rome but not getting on the bus when we left causing us to come back and get her was nerve-wracking)
• Joe Dalton for being the unexpected disco king dancer
• Joe Dalton & Wayne Roberts for drinking an abundance of beer (which probably helped inspire the dancing)
• Glenn Wilson for suggesting we skip lunch in Marseilles and head to Cassis directly....good call!
• Mary Silicas for being the most low-maintenance tripper we have ever known who also gives us good ideas
• Nichole Bernhardt for accepting the role of ‘Future Trip Leader’ in training
• Jim Nicholas for spending twice as much money due to traveling with 3 women (wife, daughter and step-daughter) who all wanted to shop, shop, shop....

And our favorite recognition goes to: Linda & Ed Barton for taking this cruise to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary....you guys rock and are an inspiration to all of us.

Everyone on the cruise was easy and enjoyable to be with. Mark Twain once said: “If you want to see how well you get along with someone, travel with them.” I am happy to report that Clair and I have room for any of you on our next trip!

A big thank you to all Med Cruisers for coming on the adventure so that we could see and share it together.

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