Some cruisers would never consider walking off their ship
with or without a guidebook in hand, to independently explore a foreign city!
Many like the comfort level a shore excursion, whether it be ship sponsored or not.
Others would disagree, saying there is so much more enjoyment heading out to
discover a port by wandering the streets, chatting with the residents, and sitting
down to enjoy the local cuisine.
Personally, my familiarity with the port city will often hedge my
decision one way or the other. But if I choose a shore excursion, it must be
one that offers an authentic experience I could not achieve on my own. That is why I find Celebrity Cruises’
Discovery Collection so appealing.
The tours in the Celebrity Cruises Discovery Collection range from eclectic,
off-the-beaten-path adventures for the naturally curious explorer, to tours
that take travelers to the must-see locales of every port. They are expertly
crafted for those seeking immersive experiences in a small group setting. With
a maximum of 24 guests in each tour, guests will get more time at each
location, individual interaction with their guide, and a more up close and
personal travel experience.
I have been to Barcelona many time. It’s such a great walking city but also has
an easy to use subway and bus system. I
have visited all the iconic Gaudi sites, wandered the Gothic Quarter, tasted my
way through La Boqueria Food Market, enjoyed tapas tours with local guides,
explored different districts, sought out the restaurants where the city
residents eat and have been to an amazing flamenco show. Still, I would jump at
the opportunity to take the Celebrity Discovery
Collection tour that visits the Secret Basilica in Barcelona! After
climbing the 260 steps to the 14th-century Basilica del Pi’s bell
tower, where its largest bell, Antonia, can be heard ringing throughout the Old
City, guests are treated to a live concert of medieval music from the same
period.! That is such an incredible
experience!
In Tuscany they offer a food and wine experience that
already has my mouth watering! Guests travel to the picturesque village of
Lari. There, receive a warm welcome to Pastificio Famiglia Martelli, where
eight employees, all family members, produce pasta in the shadow of a
12th-century castle. Then it’s off on another scenic drive through Italian wine
country to Torre a Cenaia, an authentic farmhouse. After a carriage ride
through the estate and an entertaining culinary demonstration, savor a
delicious lunch of Tuscan pasta, complemented by wine selections. This is not
the type of experience that is accessible to everyone who visits the area and
another reason why I feel Celebrity’s Discovery Collection Shore Excursions are
so special!
Leave it to Celebrity Cruises to find and offer these hidden
gems to their guests! There is no better way to experience and discover all
that a destination has to offer!
No comments:
Post a Comment