Sunday, October 4, 2015 – Today our journey started with a tender ride ashore through turquoise waters to Paphos, Turkey. Our half day tour visited the 3rd century Greek Orthodox church, the site of the largest ancient mosaics in the world and the Tombs of the Kings. The best part of the tour was the mosaics and we could have simply walked a short distance to visit them instead of doing another bus tour but then, we are here to investigate so now we know. Our recommendation here is to visit the mosaics and simply enjoy the beautiful port town on foot.
Monday, October 5, 2015 – Up early again in Kas, Turkey, for a tender ride ashore and another bus tour along the coast then inland to the ruins of Xanthos and Patara for visits to the ruins of two more ancient cities. As I’ve said in the past, after visiting Athens, Rome and Ephasis, these visits, although certainly significant, start to become a little tedious. At this point we have decided to cancel the rest of our bus tours to concentrate a little more on fun and relaxation and simply visit the city centers under our own power. Azamara usually provides transportation to the city center in most ports so we’ll be taking advantage of that aspect of the cruise from this point forward.
This evening Azamara hosted an evening of entertainment called “White Nights”. Passengers were encouraged to wear white and take part in a deck party featuring dancing under the stars and even an outdoor barbecue. Captain Magnus, (yep, that’s his real name) and his staff were in attendance and the evening was spectacular as we steamed out of Paphos under clear, warm skies and into another beautiful sunset.
Tuesday, October 6, 2015 – Today in Rhodes, Greece, we took our time rising and went up for a late breakfast before wandering off the ship for a leisurely afternoon. There are lots of great shops as you enter the walled city within just a few hundred yards of the ship. Sue inspected most of the shops while I impatiently waited for an opportunity for free wi-fi and a beer at yet another local taverna. We are now back onboard and getting ready for an evening at the Aquafina Italian specialty restaurant. We booked a package including one night at the chef’s table for California cuisine, one night at Prime C, the steak house and Aquafina, the first of our three night specialty dining package. I hope you’re all appreciating the great lengths we go through to bring you our informed opinions and travel suggestions. It’s a sacrifice but one we’re willing to make as your travel professionals.