Hello EVERYONE! We just wanted to give you a quick update before we leave for our cruise. Everything here in Germany is going good. We are just excited about our trip and the pregnancy! On September 16 we will be finding out the sex of our baby! So Keep an eye out so that you can know...if you want to. We will also be calling a few people...like we did when we found out we where expecting. That's about all that is going on here. For those that wanted to know here is our trip itinerary:
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29 August- We leave our house at 3AM for the airport. Our flight will be leaving Frankfurt at 6 AM and we will be arriving in Rome at 8AM. Once we are in Rome we will be met by our taxi and then we will be heading for the port to start our 12 day Mediterranean cruise! We will be cruising with Royal Caribbean on the ship Legend of the Seas.
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29 August- We will leave Rome at 5PM. YAY!!
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30 August- A day at sea.
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31 August-Mykonos, Greece
Out tour is called: Ancient Delos
The small, uninhabited island of Delos was once the religious center of the entire Aegean area. Today, its archaeological ruins stand as an important historical site in Greece. According to mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Apollo, the god of sun, light, music, harmony and beauty. According to revelations of 19th century excavations, Delos prospered for centuries due to its strategic position within the trade routes of the Aegean.
A local boat will transport you on the 30-minute ride to the west side of the island, which leads directly to the entrance of the archaeological site. You will walk into the heart of the sanctuary where you will see the Temple of Apollo, monuments famous for their history and architectural style, the famous dried lake with the palm tree and the unique marble lions of Delos. After a short rest stop, continue towards the terrace of the foreign gods. The view of the archipelago from there is unforgettable. You will pass through the theater and walk into the famous Hellenistic mansions of Delos with their superb mosaics decoration the floors and walls. You will then return by boat to Mykonos harbor.
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The small, uninhabited island of Delos was once the religious center of the entire Aegean area. Today, its archaeological ruins stand as an important historical site in Greece. According to mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Apollo, the god of sun, light, music, harmony and beauty. According to revelations of 19th century excavations, Delos prospered for centuries due to its strategic position within the trade routes of the Aegean.
A local boat will transport you on the 30-minute ride to the west side of the island, which leads directly to the entrance of the archaeological site. You will walk into the heart of the sanctuary where you will see the Temple of Apollo, monuments famous for their history and architectural style, the famous dried lake with the palm tree and the unique marble lions of Delos. After a short rest stop, continue towards the terrace of the foreign gods. The view of the archipelago from there is unforgettable. You will pass through the theater and walk into the famous Hellenistic mansions of Delos with their superb mosaics decoration the floors and walls. You will then return by boat to Mykonos harbor.
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1 September-Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Our tour is called: Biblical Ephesus
Driving from the pier through the hilly Turkish countryside you will arrive at the House of Virgin Mary. This is the site where the Blessed Virgin is reputed to have spent the last years of her life. The site was made famous by the visits of Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II. Outside of the house is the Fountain of Our Lady, providing visitors with water. If you desire, you will have the opportunity to join in a Mass that will be held at Mary's House.
From Mary's house a 20-minute drive will take you to the entrance of the ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was built on a small hill, with the entrance located at the top of the hill and the exit at the bottom. Once you pass the Magnesia Gate and enter what truly is an open air museum, you will be in the administrative section of the city. Your guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. You will see the Agora, the Odeon, the fountain of Trajan, the five terraces of the apartment houses, the steam baths, the Temple of Hadrian and the impressive Library of Celsius. The library is adorned with columns and statues. The Grand Theater, where the Apostle Paul preached, is one of the largest theaters in antiquity with a capacity of 24,000 people. This monumental masterpiece of Ephesus is important not only from the artistic point of view but also from the point of view of Christian history.
The last major site you will visit is the Church of Virgin Mary, also known as the Double Church because it is thought one aisle was dedicated to the Virgin and the other to the Apostle John. This Church is believed to have been the meeting place of the historic Council of Ephesus. The Church of the Virgin was a classic rectangular basilica enclosed by rows of columns taken from a Roman colonnade. Entrance was through a large atrium, paved with marble slabs from other buildings in the city, and an entrance hall paved with geometric mosaics. The walls were decorated with crosses and metal rosettes. The well preserved baptismal pool can still be seen on the north side of the church and it is the best preserved of any in Anatolia. In addition, many of the walls and pillars of the church remain standing, along with blocks inscribed with a cross.
Your tour will follow with a "Biblical lunch" where you will be served food cited in the Bible before continuing with a visit to Saint John's Basilica where, from the Chief of Excavations, you will be given a short talk on the excavations and their importance to the history of Christianity. On completion of your visit, your coach will return to Kusadasi where you will have time to explore, browse and/or shop.
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Driving from the pier through the hilly Turkish countryside you will arrive at the House of Virgin Mary. This is the site where the Blessed Virgin is reputed to have spent the last years of her life. The site was made famous by the visits of Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II. Outside of the house is the Fountain of Our Lady, providing visitors with water. If you desire, you will have the opportunity to join in a Mass that will be held at Mary's House.
From Mary's house a 20-minute drive will take you to the entrance of the ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was built on a small hill, with the entrance located at the top of the hill and the exit at the bottom. Once you pass the Magnesia Gate and enter what truly is an open air museum, you will be in the administrative section of the city. Your guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. You will see the Agora, the Odeon, the fountain of Trajan, the five terraces of the apartment houses, the steam baths, the Temple of Hadrian and the impressive Library of Celsius. The library is adorned with columns and statues. The Grand Theater, where the Apostle Paul preached, is one of the largest theaters in antiquity with a capacity of 24,000 people. This monumental masterpiece of Ephesus is important not only from the artistic point of view but also from the point of view of Christian history.
The last major site you will visit is the Church of Virgin Mary, also known as the Double Church because it is thought one aisle was dedicated to the Virgin and the other to the Apostle John. This Church is believed to have been the meeting place of the historic Council of Ephesus. The Church of the Virgin was a classic rectangular basilica enclosed by rows of columns taken from a Roman colonnade. Entrance was through a large atrium, paved with marble slabs from other buildings in the city, and an entrance hall paved with geometric mosaics. The walls were decorated with crosses and metal rosettes. The well preserved baptismal pool can still be seen on the north side of the church and it is the best preserved of any in Anatolia. In addition, many of the walls and pillars of the church remain standing, along with blocks inscribed with a cross.
Your tour will follow with a "Biblical lunch" where you will be served food cited in the Bible before continuing with a visit to Saint John's Basilica where, from the Chief of Excavations, you will be given a short talk on the excavations and their importance to the history of Christianity. On completion of your visit, your coach will return to Kusadasi where you will have time to explore, browse and/or shop.
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2 September-Rhodes, Greece
Our tour is called: Journey To Lindos
The once powerful ancient city of Lindos is located on the islands eastern shoreline, 47 kilometers from the city of Rhodes. Your tour will begin with a scenic drive past the walls of Old Rhodes and through the modern city. Continuing southward along the coast you will observe little picturesque villages, orange and lemon groves, vineyards and gnarled old olive trees. The 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a double-winged portico, a Byzantine church and the fortifications of the Knights, including the remains of the Governor's quarters, dominate the Acropolis. Once you've climbed to the top of the Acropolis, you will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coast, including St. Paul's Bay where the Apostle is said to have landed. Below the Acropolis, you will see the old, whitewashed houses and the narrow streets of this most delightful town. Its beauty has inspired artists and writers for many years. You will find many little shops selling the most attractive souvenirs, such as small ceramic items or beautiful crocheted linen. You will return to the quayside in Rhodes via the same picturesque route.
The once powerful ancient city of Lindos is located on the islands eastern shoreline, 47 kilometers from the city of Rhodes. Your tour will begin with a scenic drive past the walls of Old Rhodes and through the modern city. Continuing southward along the coast you will observe little picturesque villages, orange and lemon groves, vineyards and gnarled old olive trees. The 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a double-winged portico, a Byzantine church and the fortifications of the Knights, including the remains of the Governor's quarters, dominate the Acropolis. Once you've climbed to the top of the Acropolis, you will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coast, including St. Paul's Bay where the Apostle is said to have landed. Below the Acropolis, you will see the old, whitewashed houses and the narrow streets of this most delightful town. Its beauty has inspired artists and writers for many years. You will find many little shops selling the most attractive souvenirs, such as small ceramic items or beautiful crocheted linen. You will return to the quayside in Rhodes via the same picturesque route.
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3 September- Limassol, Cyprus
Our tour is called: Kourion, Temple of Apollo & Omodos Village
Begin with a scenic drive through the vineyards and orchards of the Phassouri citrus groves to pass by the Kolossi Castle, a well-preserved fortress built by the Crusaders in the 13th century. Continue to the ancient ruins of Kourion to explore the impressive Greco-Roman site. Of particular interest are the preserved mosaics in the central room at the House of Eustolios. Nearby is the large Greco-Roman theater built in the 2nd century B.C. The theater is still used for performances. From this beautiful spot perched high on a cliff, there are panoramic views of the ruins and sea below. Your next stop is at the Temple of Apollo. The Greek God was considered the protector of Kourion and the sanctuary is the largest and one of the most important religious centers on the island. The temple has been continuously used from the late 8th century B.C. to the second half of the 4th century A.D. The southwest side of the temple has been restored and excavations have revealed other structures including a bath complex, pilgrim halls, the "palaistra" and a holy precinct. Next, journey to Omodos, considered one of the most picturesque in Cyprus. Visit the Monastery of the Holy Cross with its excellent woodcarvings and icons. Also, see the restored wine press "Linos" and visit some of the local houses. Stroll the narrow streets and browse the shops famous for handmade pieces of traditional stained glass. There will be some independent time to relax in the village square and refresh yourself at a coffee shop before the return trip top Limassol.
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Begin with a scenic drive through the vineyards and orchards of the Phassouri citrus groves to pass by the Kolossi Castle, a well-preserved fortress built by the Crusaders in the 13th century. Continue to the ancient ruins of Kourion to explore the impressive Greco-Roman site. Of particular interest are the preserved mosaics in the central room at the House of Eustolios. Nearby is the large Greco-Roman theater built in the 2nd century B.C. The theater is still used for performances. From this beautiful spot perched high on a cliff, there are panoramic views of the ruins and sea below. Your next stop is at the Temple of Apollo. The Greek God was considered the protector of Kourion and the sanctuary is the largest and one of the most important religious centers on the island. The temple has been continuously used from the late 8th century B.C. to the second half of the 4th century A.D. The southwest side of the temple has been restored and excavations have revealed other structures including a bath complex, pilgrim halls, the "palaistra" and a holy precinct. Next, journey to Omodos, considered one of the most picturesque in Cyprus. Visit the Monastery of the Holy Cross with its excellent woodcarvings and icons. Also, see the restored wine press "Linos" and visit some of the local houses. Stroll the narrow streets and browse the shops famous for handmade pieces of traditional stained glass. There will be some independent time to relax in the village square and refresh yourself at a coffee shop before the return trip top Limassol.
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4 September- A day at sea.
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5 September- Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt
Our tour is called: Cairo, Pyramids & Tombs
Depart Alexandria aboard your coach for the 2.5-hour drive towards Africa's largest city, Cairo. Upon reaching the outskirts of Cairo, travel southwards to Egypt's first capital, Memphis. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Ptah and see the fallen colossal statue of King Ramses the second and the Alabaster Sphinx of King Amenhopis the second. A short drive from Memphis is the oldest, ancient cemetery of Sakkara. View the world's first monumental stone building, the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, built by the famous engineer Imhotep. After visiting the complex continue to one of the Mastabas(funeral chambers) built nearby, for an inside visit.
Return to Cairo where lunch will be served in a local hotel before proceeding to the Giza Plateau to discover the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza. Stop at the Western Plateau for a unique view of the three Pyramids, which affords great photographic opportunities. Continue to the Pyramid of Chephren for some free time to enjoy the pyramids on your own. Next, travel down the valley to visit the guardian of the mortuary complex, the mysterious Sphinx. Finally, a stop will be at the Papyrus Institute to see demonstrations on how the ancient Egyptians made paper from reeds from the Nile. Spend some free time for souvenir shopping in the adjacent gift shop before the return drive to Alexandria.
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Depart Alexandria aboard your coach for the 2.5-hour drive towards Africa's largest city, Cairo. Upon reaching the outskirts of Cairo, travel southwards to Egypt's first capital, Memphis. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Ptah and see the fallen colossal statue of King Ramses the second and the Alabaster Sphinx of King Amenhopis the second. A short drive from Memphis is the oldest, ancient cemetery of Sakkara. View the world's first monumental stone building, the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, built by the famous engineer Imhotep. After visiting the complex continue to one of the Mastabas(funeral chambers) built nearby, for an inside visit.
Return to Cairo where lunch will be served in a local hotel before proceeding to the Giza Plateau to discover the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza. Stop at the Western Plateau for a unique view of the three Pyramids, which affords great photographic opportunities. Continue to the Pyramid of Chephren for some free time to enjoy the pyramids on your own. Next, travel down the valley to visit the guardian of the mortuary complex, the mysterious Sphinx. Finally, a stop will be at the Papyrus Institute to see demonstrations on how the ancient Egyptians made paper from reeds from the Nile. Spend some free time for souvenir shopping in the adjacent gift shop before the return drive to Alexandria.
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6 September- A day at sea.
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7 September- Piraeus (Athens), Greece
Our tour is called: Athens Sightseeing & Acropolis
Piraeus is the ancient name of the harbor created in the early 5th century BC. Today it is the main port for the Greek capital city, Athens. Approximately five million cruise ship and ferry passengers pass through the busy port annually.
Leaving the quayside, you will drive to Athens through the suburbs where the coach will enter the city center from the southwest along Syngrou Avenue. Drive past some of the famous sites such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the largest Corinthian style temple in Greece, taking over 700 years to build. Hadrian's Arch separates the old and new Roman towns. Other sights to see include the National Gardens, the National Library and the Parliament Building, formerly the Royal Palace. The Panathinion Stadium, built in 1895, was the site of the first modern Olympics held in 1896.
The tour highlight is a visit of the Acropolis to see the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Greece, all built in the latter part of the 5th century BC. A winding pathway and approximately 150 steps lead to the top of the famous hill. See the Porpylea Entrance, the Erectheum, the Temple of Wingless Victory and, of course, the crowning glory of Athens, the incomparable Parthenon. Dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens, it is Greece's largest and most impressive temple.
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Piraeus is the ancient name of the harbor created in the early 5th century BC. Today it is the main port for the Greek capital city, Athens. Approximately five million cruise ship and ferry passengers pass through the busy port annually.
Leaving the quayside, you will drive to Athens through the suburbs where the coach will enter the city center from the southwest along Syngrou Avenue. Drive past some of the famous sites such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the largest Corinthian style temple in Greece, taking over 700 years to build. Hadrian's Arch separates the old and new Roman towns. Other sights to see include the National Gardens, the National Library and the Parliament Building, formerly the Royal Palace. The Panathinion Stadium, built in 1895, was the site of the first modern Olympics held in 1896.
The tour highlight is a visit of the Acropolis to see the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Greece, all built in the latter part of the 5th century BC. A winding pathway and approximately 150 steps lead to the top of the famous hill. See the Porpylea Entrance, the Erectheum, the Temple of Wingless Victory and, of course, the crowning glory of Athens, the incomparable Parthenon. Dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens, it is Greece's largest and most impressive temple.
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8 September- A day at sea.
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9 September- Naples, Capri, Italy
Our tour is called: Capri, Sorrento & Pompeii
After disembarking your ship you will walk to the jetfoil terminal for a 40-minute ride to Capri. From the dock at Marina Grande, the funicular will transport participants up the terrace to Capri Town. The view from the town overlooks the marina and the Sorrento Peninsular. Capri has become very commercial in recent years, but you will enjoy visiting La Piazzetta, the heart of the shopping and nightclub area. Wander through the narrow streets and explore the shops and sights. Time permitting; it may be possible to visit the beautiful Augustus Gardens, overlooking the famous Faraglioni of Capri and Marina Piccola. Return to the marina by funicular and travel by watercraft back to the mainland.
Driving south, the next stop is the fabled town of Sorrento. Legend states it was the sirens of Sorrento who attempted to lure Ulysses onto the rocks. Lunch (with a flute of Italian champagne and house wine) will be served at a first class restaurant or hotel. After lunch, board your coach for the transfer to Pompeii. Located 12 miles from Naples is the Roman town of Pompeii at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. This archaeological site is considered to be the world's finest example of a Roman town and its way of life. In 79 AD, the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried the town under 20 feet of ash and pumice stone, preserving the entire city. During the walking tour of the ruins, admire the mansions and art of wealthy patricians who moved to Pompeii to escape the turmoil of Rome; view countless paintings and inscriptions and the streets with raised pavements on either side. At intersections are stepping-stones that ensured pedestrians a safe crossing. This prosperous Roman City had an extensive forum, lavish baths, temples and villas richly decorated with frescoes. Excavations have revealed details of everyday life such as the wine jars still set in the counter of the wine shop. Time permitting; a stop will be made at a cameo factory, where you will learn about the delicate art of cameo carving and have an opportunity to purchase some of the handicrafts
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After disembarking your ship you will walk to the jetfoil terminal for a 40-minute ride to Capri. From the dock at Marina Grande, the funicular will transport participants up the terrace to Capri Town. The view from the town overlooks the marina and the Sorrento Peninsular. Capri has become very commercial in recent years, but you will enjoy visiting La Piazzetta, the heart of the shopping and nightclub area. Wander through the narrow streets and explore the shops and sights. Time permitting; it may be possible to visit the beautiful Augustus Gardens, overlooking the famous Faraglioni of Capri and Marina Piccola. Return to the marina by funicular and travel by watercraft back to the mainland.
Driving south, the next stop is the fabled town of Sorrento. Legend states it was the sirens of Sorrento who attempted to lure Ulysses onto the rocks. Lunch (with a flute of Italian champagne and house wine) will be served at a first class restaurant or hotel. After lunch, board your coach for the transfer to Pompeii. Located 12 miles from Naples is the Roman town of Pompeii at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. This archaeological site is considered to be the world's finest example of a Roman town and its way of life. In 79 AD, the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried the town under 20 feet of ash and pumice stone, preserving the entire city. During the walking tour of the ruins, admire the mansions and art of wealthy patricians who moved to Pompeii to escape the turmoil of Rome; view countless paintings and inscriptions and the streets with raised pavements on either side. At intersections are stepping-stones that ensured pedestrians a safe crossing. This prosperous Roman City had an extensive forum, lavish baths, temples and villas richly decorated with frescoes. Excavations have revealed details of everyday life such as the wine jars still set in the counter of the wine shop. Time permitting; a stop will be made at a cameo factory, where you will learn about the delicate art of cameo carving and have an opportunity to purchase some of the handicrafts
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10 September- We arrive back in Rome at 4AM. We will be heading to the airport later that evening for our flight that leaves Rome at 10PM and we will arrive in Frankfurt at 12AM.
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That's about it. We will post pictures when we get back.
