Mediterranean Odyssey - 12 nights, November 2013

Your tour begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where it is said that Mary, accompanied by John the Apostle, visited at the end of her life. Upon reaching the City of Ancient Ephesus, the guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. Highlights will include the Fountain of Trajan, the impressive Library of Celsius and the Grand Theatre.

Visit the recently excavated Terrace Houses, also referred to as ‘the houses of the rich’. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus resided in these houses, which appeared very plain from the outside. However inside they were decorated with mosaic flooring and frescoes. Excavations of the Terrace Houses started in 1960 and are still continuing today.

Afterwards, you will visit the glorious St John’s Basilica. This once great church built over a 2nd century tomb is thought to hold the remains of St John.

A traditional luncheon will be served in a five star hotel before the return drive to Kusadasi. Once back in downtown Kusadasi you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration or returning directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately three hours of walking over slippery and cobblestoned ground, with uneven terrain and some climbing required through the ruins. There are approximately 20 steps at the entrance to the Terrace Houses plus many steps inside to reach the different levels. The tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion. Soft drinks and water are included with luncheon; any alcoholic drinks must be purchased. Euros, Sterling and US Dollars are accepted.

An air-conditioned people carrier with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

People Carriers will take up to four guests.

This private people carrier tour will allow you to take in the ancient site of Ephesus with family or friends.

Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeon, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre.

Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St John the Evangelist, St John's Basilica was once topped with 11 domes and rivalled Istanbul’s St Sophia Basilica in scale. The church is now in ruins, but there are many frescoes, mosaics and columns that attest to the glory that once marked this holy place.

The scenic drive, past countryside cultivated with olive groves, vineyards, tobacco and cotton plantations, will come to life as your guide takes you to the former site of the Temple of Artemis for a memorable photo stop.

The tour will end at a carpet shop in downtown Kusadasi. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Alternatively you may wish to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

There is approximately 2½ hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden. Entrance fees are included. Refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Ephesus is unsurpassed by any archaeological site in terms of sheer magnitude and the roots of this impressive site go back to the 13th century BC. The surviving ruins of Ephesus belong to the Roman Imperial Period, with an impressive amphitheatre, large enough to hold 25,000 people, and the well preserved and restored Library of Celsius.

Continue your tour through areas of vineyards and peach trees to Sirince Village, an old Orthodox settlement on the top of a mountain. Today, the village is a perfect synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture from the 1920's. You will have the unique opportunity to observe village life and purchase some traditional souvenirs and handicrafts. The narrow streets of the village are home to women selling crafts and olive oil.

Visit a local house, where you can see the characteristic exterior and the traditional local interior. Afterwards sip a cup of refreshing Turkish apple tea at a traditional local village tea house, whilst learning more of the Turkish way of life. The tour will end in downtown Kusadasi with an optional visit to a carpet shop to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit the carpet shop may return directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately two and a half hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground. The removal of items from the site of Ephesus is strictly forbidden. Comfortable walking shoes and a hat are recommended. The tour will end at a carpet shop next to the terminal building. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit the carpet shop may return directly to the ship.

The charming resort town of Taormina is perched high on a cliff over-looking the Bay of Naxos. Half way up the winding hillside road, your coach will stop in the underground parking area, where you will take the lifts to street level and the Square of Porta Catania.

Your guide will introduce you to the delights of Taormina on a guided walk, including the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and the bustling main street of Corso Umberto, lined with former mansions and flower-filled balconies. Enjoy wonderful panoramic views from the balcony of Piazza IX Aprile.

Follow your guide up the narrow street for a visit to the Greek-Roman Theatre. This is Taormina’s most famous antiquity, dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries BC and which still hosts performances today. The Theatre’s dramatic location is nothing less than breathtaking, with an incredible view of the coast and Mount Etna in the distance.

Time permitting, you will have a short while to browse the shops and boutiques that line the main street of Taormina.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Lifts must be used from the parking area to access the town centre. If queues form for the use of the lift, then the return to the parking area will be via 140 steps. The majority of this tour is conducted on foot, over some cobbled and uneven ground. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are advisable. Taormina is a popular destination, which can be very crowded in peak season. Guests wishing to use the restrooms in Taormina are expected to make a purchase. Euros and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases.

Take this unique opportunity to visit a local farm in the beautiful countryside near Sorrento and sample some wonderful Italian delicacies. The owner will accompany you on a tour of the farm and explain the processes that go into the production of Mozzarella cheese.

Admire the beautiful garden of lemon and olive trees where your host will offer samples of hand-made bread, cheeses and salami. Absorb the relaxing atmosphere of your natural surroundings away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

After your farm visit, you will proceed to the picturesque and popular town of Sorrento - an ideal spot for independent exploration. Stroll along the Corso Italia or visit the Cathedral. You may, of course, prefer to relax in an open-air café and watch the world go by. Shoppers will delight in the array of souvenirs including beautiful, highly polished wood inlaid with marquetry.

During your drive, enjoy wonderful views from the Sorrento coast of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are advised that there is an uphill walk of approximately 10 minutes to reach the farmhouse. The visit of Sorrento Town will be on foot but the amount of walking is at guests' own discretion. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of this itinerary may vary.

As you drive around Italy’s legendary capital, you will be intrigued by the stunning picture of its past and present, by the tranquil fountains that adorn the squares and streets, and by the sculptures and frescoes that cover every church.

Once in the city you take a panoramic sightseeing tour passing by the Vatican walls, which outline the area of the Vatican City, the Lungotevere and the Ara Pacis.

Next, you will pass by Muro Torto (the Roman walls), Villa Borghese and enter the old town by Porta Pinciana. Pass through Via Vittorio Veneto, symbol of the Italian ‘dolce vita’, the white marble Victor Emmanuel Momument, the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine and the Circus Maximus.

A brief stop will be made for you to photograph a building of epic proportions, The Colosseum; an image that will no doubt become a precious memento of your visit to the eternal city of Rome.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. All sightseeing will be done from the coach. No entrances are included. A comfort stop will be made during the one hour and 30 minute transfer to/from Rome. Guests must be able to negotiate the steps onto and off the coach.

Discover the village of Lindos and walk to the summit of the Acropolis and see the remains of past civilisations. These include the 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a Byzantine church and the fortifications of the Knights. The panoramic view will showcase St Pauls Bay and the old whitewashed houses in the narrow streets of the village. Spend some free time browsing the shops and soaking up the atmosphere.

Continue onto the popular Tsambika beach, washed by the clear waters of the Aegean to enjoy approximately three hours on the beach. Relax, swim in the sea or find a suitable spot to have luncheon from the choice of cafeterias and tavernas.

On the scenic drive back to Rhodes a stop will be made at Monte Smith to capture the panoramic sight of the Old and New town of Rhodes. Upon arrival at Rhodes town embark on a guided walking tour taking you along the stone paved lanes past medieval structures, each recalling the Knights of St John and their Ottoman conquerors.



BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
P&O Cruises will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. P&O Cruises does not provide or supply the excursion services. P&O Cruises will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and P&O Cruises shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions P&O Cruises is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of P&O Cruises.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour of walking including many cobblestoned streets. We would advise you to take sun protection and a sun hat. Please remember to take local currency (Euros). Please bear in mind that luncheon, towels, umbrellas and sunbeds are not included. There are independent suppliers on the beach that may offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

Begin your day by exploring the ancient site of Tralles. Situated close to the city of Aydin, Tralles was founded by the Argians and the Thracians and was handed back and forth frequently between the Hellenistic kingdoms following the conquest of Alexander the Great in 334 B.C.

Visit the newly opened Aydin Museum filled with works mainly collected from the ruins of the ancient city of Tralles; the first settlement of the area. On display are archaeological finds, coins and metals from a variety of civilisations, textiles, jewellery and household items.

The site of Magnesia is your next stop. According to legend and historians, this ancient city was founded by a tribe called the Magets from Thessaly who built the city in 400 B.C. because they required a fortified city to defend themselves against the Persians. In Magnesia’s Hellenistic period it was ruled by the Seleucids and the Kingdom of Pergamon respectively.

Upon returning to Kusadasi you will have the option of visiting a carpet shop to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture or returning directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground. Please watch your step at all times and due to the nature of the sites, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of highlights on this tour may vary to avoid congestion.

Enjoy approximately two hours in the charming hillside town of Taormina to explore, shop for souvenirs or just sit in one of the many street cafés and watch the world go by.

Due to large vehicle restrictions, your coach will stop in the underground parking area, where you will take the lifts to street level and the Square of Porta Catania.

This tour is unguided, so please pay close attention to the pick-up point and time, as coaches cannot be held for latecomers. Entrance fees to the Greek-Roman Theatre are not included.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are advised that although the walking is optional, the terrain is mostly cobbled and uneven around the town. Lifts must be used from the parking area to access the town centre. If queues form for the use of the lift, then the return to the parking area will be via 140 steps. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The duration of free time is approximate and dependant on local conditions. Taormina is a popular destination, which can be very crowded in peak season. Guests wishing to use the cafe restrooms in Taormina are expected to make a purchase. Euros and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases.

Step back in time with a walk through Lindos village and up to the summit of the Acropolis to see the magnificent remains of past civilisations. Marvel at the 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a double-winged portico, a Byzantine church and the fortifications of the Knights of St John, including the remains of the Governor’s quarters. The view is truly panoramic and at the very foot of the Acropolis is St Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle is said to have sought shelter during a storm.

Upon returning from Lindos, a short stop will be made at Archangelos, the island’s largest village in the Valley of Aithona. The village is famous for its long tradition in the art of ceramics. A brief stop will be made at the folk art factory where local artists, using age-old methods, make ceramic wares. There will be an opportunity to purchase the unique items on sale.

Return to the old town of Rhodes with its maze of cobble-stoned streets built inside the medieval city walls. Take some free time to browse in the many quaint shops, brimming with Greek souvenirs.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are approximately 365 steps and narrow cobble-stoned pathways leading to the top of the Acropolis in Lindos. The old town of Rhodes will be explored on foot. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

Head inland through some of the small agricultural villages, which farm the fertile soils of the plains of Elis.

Discover one of Katakolon's oldest established wineries, Domain Mercouri, which has a rich history in producing both wine and olive oil.

You will be taken on a tour of the family-run estate with its intriguing mix of old and new equipment, including the wine cellar and the olive presses. The family museum hosts a collection of various old agricultural tools, used on the estate over the years.

Continuing your journey of the winemaking process, you will head for the nearby vineyards, which border the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

On your return to the main buildings, let your taste buds be tantalised by a tasting of local produce, including the estate's wine, olive oil and a small selection of local snacks, including fresh bread and feta cheese.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The visit to the winery involves a certain amount of walking, over mainly flat ground, with some steps and gravel. There is a steep slope heading to the cellar. In the winery, no working machinery will be seen.

Discover ‘sacred’ Olympia, steeped in ancient myth and legend. The Olympic Games are believed to have originated here in 776 BC. Every four years, the Olympic flame is relit and delivered to the Games’ ‘host’ city. Stroll the deserted sanctuary with its temples, altars and treasuries, all overlooked by masses of trees, said to have been planted by Hercules to mark the boundaries of his father's domain. Walk, or for the more active, run the original course in the stadium with its marble starting blocks still intact.

Thought to be one of the most important Museums in Greece, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia is host to a collection of priceless treasures unearthed during archaeological excavations. The Museum offers many awe-inspiring exhibits including the remains of the pediments to the Temple of Zeus, which housed one of the seven wonders of the world, the gold and ivory statue of the God. The marble statue of Hermes, thought to date back to 330 BC will also leave you spellbound with its perfection.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is over two hours of walking on this tour over some gravel pathways and steps. Flash photography is not permitted inside the Museum. To reach the Museum of Olympia, there is a walk of 400 yards on a slight incline, and over a bridge with 30 steps.

Step inside the colossal Colosseum and imagine the glory of ancient Rome as you look over the vast arena. Pass by the Roman Forum, a once chaotic place with markets, temples and the Senate House. See the beautiful Trevi Fountain, Rome's largest and most famous fountain.

The Vatican Museum houses one of the most impressive collections in the world. Admire the many works of art and visit the Sistine Chapel, dominated by the efforts of Michelangelo. The conception and execution of 'Creation of the World' and 'Last Judgment' are positively titanic.

Magnificent St Peter's Basilica took over 100 years to build and features Renaissance and Baroque stylings. Resting on over 800 pillars and adorned with 44 altars, St Peter's is by far the largest church in the world.

There will be an opportunity to 'refuel' during your tour, with an Italian-style luncheon.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests booking this tour will have privileged access to the Vatican Museum, avoiding the main bulk of the crowds and queues for entrance. This is a fast paced comprehensive tour with substantial walking. The itinerary is subject to local conditions. Please dress appropriately for entering churches. For security reasons, St Peter's may close entrance altogether. In the event of excessive queues, free time will be given in St Peter's Square. Queues at the Sistine Chapel are to be expected. This tour is not operable on Sundays or on religious holidays.

Your first glimpse of the magnificent volcano will be from Naples where you can admire the grandeur of Mount Vesuvius from afar. After a 45 minute journey by highway and serpentine road, you will arrive at a height of 3,000 feet where your ascent on foot will begin. Zig-zag paths lead an additional 1,000 feet to the crater walls. On the edge of this imposing crater, your alpine guide will demonstrate how 'alive' Vesuvius is as they point out hot spots. Take a moment to absorb the phenomenon of this majestic volcano and the panoramic view over the Bay of Naples.

Enjoy a delicious luncheon at a local restaurant at the foot of Mount Vesuvius.

Unjustly less famous than its bigger brother, Pompeii, the preservation of this small town is far superior. The excavations of Herculaneum are distinctly different from Pompeii, mainly due to the way it was engulfed by mud rather than ash and stone. The mud had an incredible preserving effect on the houses, shops, baths, wooden elements, foodstuffs and fabrics, offering a unique insight to private life in antiquity.


This excursion will operate by coach and on sea. A substantial amount of walking is involved in this tour. Participants must be in good physical condition in order to undertake the trek up Vesuvius, which involves walking frequently on steep inclines over graveled, volcanic ash terrain. Flat, comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are essential. Due to the elevation, it may get cold and it is advisable to wear layers. The weather can be variable.The visit of Mt. Vesuvius is weather dependent and in the case of inclement weather, this visit will be substituted with an orientation drive of Naples.

The city of Miletus was one of the greatest Ionian cities in south western Asia Minor. Miletus was destroyed in 494 BC after falling into the hands of the Persians but was later rebuilt by the famous architect, Hippodamus who gave Miletus its street grid plan. This revolutionary feature of urban planning was adopted in nearby Priene, and later by all new Roman cities. The city eventually declined after silt brought down by the river Maeander caused the gulf to close and extended the shore line.

During your visit you will see the ruins of the stadium, Roman baths and the Roman theatre which at one time could hold 25,000 spectators.

Visit the newly opened Archaeological Museum at Miletus and see the wonderful artefacts representing the many ancient sites of the area.

Afterwards, enjoy a stop at the site of Didyma to view the Temple of Apollo. This vast temple was amongst the most famous oracles in the ancient world.

As your tour concludes back in Kusadasi, you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration with some time for shopping or returning directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground on this tour. Please watch your step at all times and due to the nature of the sites, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of highlights on this tour may vary to avoid congestion.