Magnifico Mediterranean Costa Cruises

Magnifico Mediterranean Costa Cruises

Magnifico Mediterranean Costa Cruises

19 years leading groups, this experience trumped all other moments of stress combined. This was a miracle as most ships don't wait and I had no plan B on how to get us from this port in northern Africa to Balearic Islands of Spain. With the ship blaring, the last one in our group made it within seconds to the rising of the gangway at 1:33pm. When our coach stopped outside the parking gates, we ran as if we were on fire.

Impossible. We were to board our ship at 1pm. En route back, heavy traffic delayed us, which put me on the verge of a nervous breakdown. We visited ancient Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, a mountain village by the sea and in the crowded souks of the Medina we bargained for treasures.

In Tunisia I arranged a private tour with a passionate guide named Amel who had just 5 hours to show us her beloved Tunis. Least favorite, Palermo Sicily. I heard the favorites however to be the Isle of Capri, ruins of Pompeii, glamorous Monte Carlo, charming Portofino and exotic Tunis. Most enjoyed Barcelona, Marseilles, Avignon, Sorrento and Mallorca.

Mediterranean Cruise to Haifa and Ashdod

Among its unique exhibits are the Byzantine mosaics and material from Caesarea. If you're interested in art, both ancient and modern, and your cruise gives you enough time, you should look at the Haifa museum. You can see where the prophet Elijah hid from wicked kings. Opposite the Carmelite Monastery, there is a small path leading to Elijah's Cave.

Haifa is the home of the world-famous Technion University, which has a beautiful campus. In winter, however, the weather is often quite mild, and there is plenty to do in Haifa even in the rain. The gardens are absolutely stunning, especially in summer. One of the most popular tourist sites is the lovely Bahai Gardens, complete with the most famous Bahai temple in the world. There is a lot to see in Haifa, making it the primary option in Israel for most cruises.

While the news talks about violence in Israel, the reality is that Israel is very secure and the port towns of Ashdod and Haifa are safe and lovely. A great place to visit on your next cruise is Israel. Mediterranean cruises are loads of fun.