ISSUE EUROPE
SCENES OF CAMPANIA pg.4
THE ART OF FRENCH PASTRY pg.26
WILD & WONDERFUL GIBRALTAR MONKEYS pg.56
IN SEARCH OF NESSIE pg.78
CAPTIVATING CULTURES IN EUROPE
LOOK OUT FOR EXQUISITE SAVINGS ON SELECT 2024 EUROPEAN SAILINGS DURING SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 2023 VISIT RSSC.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
COVER IMAGE: Corfu, Greece
inside this ISSUE discover EUROPE Scenes of Campania............................................. 4 The Most Beautiful Beaches in Corfu, Greece..................................................... 10 The Real Meaning of the Greeting 'Yassou' In Greece.............................. 16 Top Things to See and Do in Saint-Tropez ........................................................... 20
The Art of French Pastry................................... 26
The Taste of Spain............................................... 32
When In Istanbul, Choose your own Kebab Adventure............ 38
Scene-Stealing Sicily.......................................... 44
The Ruins of Limassol........................................ 50
Wild and Wonderful Gibraltar Monkeys...... 56
Fish and Chips, Beer and a Blarney Stone................................. 62 In Finland, Europe’s Last Great Wilderness........................................ 66
Land of the Hidden Folk.................................... 72
In Search of Nessie.............................................. 78
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xxxxx Naples N SCENES OF CAMPANIA Geographical influences & visual highlights of Naples BY DANIEL MORRIS
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Naples is one of Italy’s most fascinating ports of call. Stunning geographical features and epic historical events influenced a wealth of culture and cuisine that have impacted the world. Rich volcanic soil produces world-famous tomatoes, citrus, olives and vineyards, as local legends paint the city’s historical past with a hue of intrigue. continue...
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Naples
Coastal Insights Naples is in the south-western part of Italy, in a bay of the same name near the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s nestled in a natural amphitheatre-like setting, surrounded by hills on three sides. The hills of Naples are home to some of the city’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, delicious restaurants and captivating vistas. Renowned for its beautiful coastline, the Bay of Naples can be enjoyed up close or from various vantage points throughout the city. One of the most famous is the Castel dell’Ovo, a medieval castle perched on the coast of a tiny island just o the coast. And if you’re looking to relax at the seaside, there are multiple swathes of sand to consider; Bagno Sirena is great for a low-key experience.
SITES TO SEE Castel dell’Ovo
Take a boat to the former island of Megaride and explore the castle’s ramparts and towers while enjoying stunning views of the Bay of Naples. Legend has it that famous Latin poet Virgil placed a magical egg inside the castle’s foundation. Should the egg break, the castle and the city will crumble. Villa Pignatelli This beautiful 19th-century villa is tucked away in the peaceful and picturesque Vomero district. Visitors can explore the mansion-turned-museum’s ornate interiors with decor from Neapolitan and French artisans alongside art collections filled with sculptures, photography, stuccos and paintings. And it’s all surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Amalfi Coast Costiera Amalfitana is one of Italy’s most picturesque coastal regions. It’s a short drive south of Naples, beyond Sorrento and around the bend of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Charming towns like Positano, Amalfi and Ravello showcase their unique character and vibe alongside stunning views of the sea.
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TOP: CASTEL DELL’OVO BOTTOM: VILLA PIGNATELLI
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“And if you’re looking for a little beach bliss, there are multiple swathes of sand to consider...”
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Naples
Under the Surface Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano that last erupted in 1944, is a significant geographical feature that has shaped the land, history and culture of Naples. Most notable — of course — is the infamous eruption of 79 CE, which destroyed the neighbouring towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum. But as life goes on, tragedy proves to be fertile soil for growth. And in the case of a volcano, it’s a literal truth. Volcanic soil is incredibly fertile, and it isn’t just around the mountain where that holds true. Known as the Campania Felix (Happy Campania), the surrounding rural environment is abundant in rich soil and fresh water sources. It’s also accompanied by a climate which creates an ideal scenario for cultivating various crops in the region that help Neapolitan cuisine to stand out in its own fashion. Sweet and delicious tomatoes, delectable olives and a plethora of grapes — with their varietal characteristics — are just a taste of what Naples has to oer.
SITES TO SEE Mount Vesuvius
Visitors can take a guided tour to the crater of the volcano, where they can learn about its history, geology and current activity. The views from the top are breathtaking, and visitors can see the entire Bay of Naples on a clear day. Pompeii Pompeii was buried under ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted over 2,000 years ago, preserving portions of the city in dramatic fashion. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most famous archaeological locations in the world, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into life in ancient Rome. Catacombs of San Gennaro These ancient catacombs contain a labyrinth of underground tunnels and tombs that were hewn from the substrate of yellow tu (rock composed of volcanic debris from an eruption), with its beginnings dating to the 2nd century CE. This burial ground was expanded over the years to house the city’s early Christians and is considered one of Naples’ most significant religious sites. Daniel Morris is the Sr. Copywriter at Regent Seven Seas Cruises® and Copy Editor of EXPLORE Magazine. He loves to travel and explore the opportunities it brings to connect with, learn and share the stories of the world’s people and cultures.
MOUNT VESUVIUS
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Explore Naples and the surrounding region on these magnificent sailings.
INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS
DATE
NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO
PORTS
54
7
Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Taormina (Sicily), Valletta, Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Barcelona
1 MAY 2024
Seven Seas Grandeur ™ ROME TO BARCELONA
Seven Seas Vo a er® ISTANBUL TO BARCELONA
64
Istanbul, Pergamum (Dikili), Athens (Piraeus), Ephesus (Kusadasi), Messina (Sicily), Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), Ajaccio (Corsica), Provence (Marseilles), Barcelona
10
27 OCT 2024
Seven Seas Navi ator® ISTANBUL TO ROME
65
10
5 NOV 2024
Istanbul O , Izmir, Athens (Piraeus), Messina (Sicily), Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Toulon, Rome (Civitavecchia)
Seven Seas Navi ator® ISTANBUL TO BARCELONA
87
Istanbul, Kavala/Philippi, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Athens (Piraeus), Mykonos, Messina (Sicily), Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Mahón (Menorca), Barcelona Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Messina (Sicily), Valletta, La Goulette, Ajaccio (Corsica), Tuscany (Livorno), Monte Carlo, Palma de Mallorca, Alicante, Valencia, Barcelona O
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19 OCT 2025
147
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25 OCT 2025
Seven Seas Grandeur ™ ROME TO BARCELONA
O Overni ht in ort
FOR ALL VOYAGES VISITING NAPLES AND TO VIEW INCLUDED & UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS, VISIT RSSC.COM
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xxxxx Corfu
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN C , Gr BY ALEX SAKALIS
With its sheltered bay and narrow strips of land, the Ionian island of Corfu, close to the coasts of both mainland Greece and Albania, is a great place for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The coastline is lush with trees and plants, which gives a sheltered feel while you swim and sunbathe. There are secluded pebbled beaches and more popular, sandy stretches of the coastline with enough facilities to relax for the day. Find your perfect spot among these beautiful beaches in Corfu.
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CORFU, GREECE
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Corfu
GLYFADA BEACH | sand On the opposite side of the island from Corfu Town, you’ll find one of the most popular beaches — and for good reason. The sand at Glyfada beach is soft on your feet and looks like light brown sugar. The water is calm and inviting and remains shallow for several metres. Glyfada beach is laid out with sunbeds and umbrellas and has a few restaurants nearby. Be sure to get a doughnut or freshly cut fruit from one of the beach vendors. CANAL D’AMOUR | lo d-up ims Truly one of the most beautiful beaches on Corfu is Canal d’Amour. There are several rock formations that create hidden coves and caves around the coastline. You can lay your towel out on the smooth rocks to sunbathe or rent a sunbed. There are several spots set up for cli jumping into the turquoise waters. It gets its name, French for ‘Channel of Love’, from the superstition that if a couple swims through the channel together, they’ll soon be married. PALEOKASTRITSA BEACH | ing For a green and lush slice of paradise, head to the west side of Corfu to Paleokastritsa Beach. The water is spectacularly clean and very refreshing on hot summer days. The shore is a mix of small pebbles and sand.
AGIOS GEORGIOS PAGON BEACH
CANAL D’AMOUR
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There are lots of fish in this bay, so be sure to bring your snorkelling gear. Finish your day at Paleokastritsa Beach with a climb up to the monastery for an incredible sunset view. BARBATI BEACH | kayaking clud co s You’ll love sunbathing to the sound of the small waves on the pebbles and rocks of Barbati Beach. The green mountains make a beautiful backdrop, and oer early morning and late afternoon shade on the beach. It’s a beautiful beach that never gets too crowded. There are a few restaurants that serve the beach for coee, cocktails and traditional food. Hire a boat or kayak to venture o to secluded bays and coves. ISSOS BEACH | ad nrs wa r sp ts Rolling sand dunes and strong winds make Issos Beach a great spot for adventure travellers. Learn how to kitesurf or windsurf through the deep blue waters along the western coast of Corfu. For those less inclined towards water sports, Issos Beach has golden sand and umbrella rentals to enjoy a day of sunbathing and paddling. Lake Korission and natural wetlands, where you might catch a glimpse of the pink flamingos, is within walking distance. AGIOS GEORGIOS PAGON BEACH | a family-frny beach There are two beaches in Corfu, not far from each other, called Agios Georgios, or Saint George.
WINE TASTING — CORFU, GREECE
To dierentiate between them, they’re known as Agios Georgios Pagon and Agios Georgios South. Agios Georgios Pagon is a horseshoe-shaped bay in the north-west of Corfu with a long stretch of golden sand. It’s a lovely beach with a beautiful landscape of trees, hills and wild plants. The water is calm and safe for the entire family. This beach is a great spot to catch the sunset. AGIOS STEFANOS BEACH | a nt vw Emerald waters and 2.1 kilometres of sand await you at Agios Stefanos Beach in the north-west corner of Corfu. It’s an old fishing village that has maintained its authentic identity, despite the development of nearby resorts. There are lots of hiking paths with spectacular views throughout the coastline that lead you to secluded beaches. The area has plenty of fish taverns and restaurants. It’s also the perfect spot for dinner with a sunset view. AVLAKI BEACH | a locals’ taway Local people try to keep Avlaki Beach their secret — but with pristine water and gorgeous views, visitors to the island are happily discovering it. It’s a pebbled beach with some large rocks, but there’s a small pier to help you get into the water. There are kayaks and canoes available for hire to explore the small coves nearby. Avlaki Beach has just a couple of restaurants, where you can get a snack or full meal, and the food is particularly good. Alex Sakalis is a gifted writer and a contributor to Culture Trip. Culture Trip inspires people to explore the world’s culture and creativity through innovative technology and a network of local content creators. Their vision is to bring the world to everyone and
in doing so bring everyone closer together. Visit www.culturetrip.com to learn more.
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Corfu
BASK IN THE BEAUTY OF
ON THESE MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPES. C
INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS
DATE
NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO
PORTS
Seven Seas Vo a er® ATHENS TO ISTANBUL
76
12
Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Katakolon, Corfu, Kotor, Urbino (Ancona), Ravenna, Split, Heraklion (Crete), Ephesus (Kusadasi), Istanbul O
26 APR 2024
Seven Seas Grandeur TM ROME TO ATHENS
96
Rome (Civitavecchia), Amalfi/Positano, Taormina (Sicily), Crotone (Calabria), Corfu, Dubrovnik, Venice (Trieste) O , Split, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon, Santorini, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Athens (Piraeus) Rome (Civitavecchia), Amalfi/Positano, Messina (Sicily), Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Katakolon, Corfu, Valletta O , Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Sète, Sanary-Sur-Mer, Ajaccio (Corsica), Monte Carlo
14
31 JUL 2024
Seven Seas Mariner® ROME TO MONTE CARLO
98
17
5 SEP 2024
Seven Seas Vo a er® VENICE TO ATHENS
63
10
Venice (Trieste), Zadar, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon, Nauplion, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Istanbul O , Mykonos, Athens (Piraeus)
5 OCT 2024
Seven Seas Vo a er® ATHENS TO ISTANBUL
76
Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Katakolon, Corfu, Kotor, Urbino (Ancona), Ravenna, Split, Heraklion (Crete), Ephesus (Kusadasi), Istanbul O
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15 OCT 2024
Seven Seas S lendor® JERUSALEM TO ROME
84
Jerusalem (Haifa), Cairo (Port Said), Alexandria, Katakolon, Corfu, Messina (Sicily), Valletta, La Goulette, Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia)
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20 MAY 2025
Seven Seas Vo a er® ATHENS TO VENICE
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Athens (Piraeus), Mykonos, Aghios Nikolaos (Crete), Corfu, Kotor, Split, Koper, Venice (Fusina) O
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3 JUN 2025
O Overni ht in ort N NEW PORT OF CALL
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INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS
DATE
NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO
PORTS
DATE
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PORTS
Seven Seas S lendor® ROME TO VENICE
59
10
Rome (Civitavecchia), Amalfi/Positano, Messina (Sicily), Valletta, Igoumenitsa, Corfu, Kotor, Rijeka, Venice (Fusina)
2 JUL 2025
Seven Seas S lendor® VENICE TO BARCELONA
82
Venice (Fusina), Split, Kotor, Corfu, Argostoli (Cephalonia), Taormina (Sicily), Amalfi/Positano, Rome (Civitavecchia), Monte Carlo, Barcelona
10
12 JUL 2025
Seven Seas Grandeur TM VENICE TO ROME
78
10
15 OCT 2025
Venice (Fusina), Rijeka, Urbino (Ancona), Kotor, Bari N , Corfu, Valletta, Catania (Sicily), Salerno, Rome (Civitavecchia)
Seven Seas Vo a er® VENICE TO ROME
90
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31 OCT 2025
Venice (Fusina), Rijeka, Kotor, Brindisi N , Corfu, Argostoli (Cephalonia), Messina (Sicily), Siracusa (Sicily), Valletta, Palermo (Sicily), Amalfi/Positano, Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia) Athens (Piraeus), Mykonos, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Chania (Crete), Santorini, Gythion, Corfu, Taormina (Sicily), Salerno, Rome (Civitavecchia)
Seven Seas Vo a er® ATHENS TO ROME
69
10
7 APR 2026
O Overni ht in ort N NEW PORT OF CALL
FOR ALL VOYAGES VISITING CORFU AND TO VIEW INCLUDED & UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS, VISIT RSSC.COM
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xxxxx Greece
THE REAL MEANING OF THE GREETING “ YASSOU ” IN GREECE
BY DETRACI REGULA
On the other hand, in a formal setting like a fancy restaurant, Grecians will often use the formal yassas when greeting each other but might say, “ raki ” or “ ouzo ” to toasting a drink in a traditional setting. In other words, yassou is considered casual while yassas is considered to be a more respectful way to say, “ hello .” You will often hear yassou used to address people younger than the speaker and yassas for greeting friends who are older than them, acquaintances, and family members.
Along with kalimera , you’ve probably heard the residents of Greece saying, “ yassou ” during your travels. Greeks often greet one another with the friendly and casual phrase. It is a multi-purpose term with a literal translation of “your health” in English and is used to wish good health upon a person. Sometimes, in informal settings like a casual bar, Greeks might also say, “ yassou ” to make an informal toast in the same way the British say, “ cheers . ”
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If you’re planning on visiting Greece, you can expect that Greeks in the tourist industry will almost exclusively use yassas when addressing visitors. For those working in hospitality and restaurant services, tourists are considered honourable and honoured guests. You may also hear the word “ ya ” tossed around in casual settings which is an abbreviation of yassou/yassas . It is the Greek equivalent of saying hi or hey and shouldn’t be used in formal settings. OTHER TRADITIONS OF GREETINGS IN GREECE Although you won’t find it very hard to meet Greek people who also speak English you’ll still likely be greeted by “ yassas ” when you sit down at a restaurant or check-in to your hotel. Unlike in France and some other European countries, you won’t be expected to kiss each other’s cheeks as a greeting. In fact, depending on where you’re travelling in Greece, it is sometimes considered too forward to use this gesture. In Crete, for instance, female friends might exchange kisses on the cheek when saying hello, but it’s considered quite rude for a man to greet another man this way unless they’re related. In Athens, on the other hand, it is deemed to be rude to use this gesture on a total stranger, regardless of gender. Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting, but you should avoid doing so unless a Greek person extends their hand to you first. In that case, not returning the handshake would be rude.
Other helpful terms including: efcharisto to say, “Thank you,” parakalo for “please” and sometimes “Thank you,” and kathika which means “I am lost.” Ochi efcharisto means “No thank you” and nai means “yes” (even though it sounds like English for “no”). Although you’ll find almost everyone in the tourist industry speaks at least a little English, you might surprise your host if you use one of these common phrases in conversation. When it comes to understanding the language when you’re in Greece, though, you’ll also need to familiarise yourself with the Greek alphabet, which you’ll likely see on road signs, billboards, restaurant menus, and pretty much everywhere writing appears in Greece. DeTraci Regula is an experienced writer and a contributor to TripSavvy. TripSavvy.com is one of the top-10 travel information sites in the world and is part of the Dotdash Meredith publishing family. It’s written by real experts that speak the local language and have tabs on the best of everything in town, from cocktails to kids’ menus.
MORE WAYS TO SAY “HELLO” AND HELPFUL TERMS TO KNOW
When it comes to preparing for your travels to Greece, you’ll want to familiarise yourself with the country’s customs and traditions, but you might also want to brush up on some common Greek words and phrases. Greeks use kalimera to say, “Good morning,” kalispera to say, “Good evening,” and antío for “Goodbye.” You may sometimes, though rarely, hear kalo mesimeri which means “Good afternoon.”
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EXPLORE ICONS OF ANCIENT GREECE ON THE VOYAGES BELOW
INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS
DATE
NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO
PORTS
Seven Seas Grandeur TM ISTANBUL TO VENICE
71
12
16 APR 2025
Istanbul, Kavala/Philippi, Chios N , Athens (Piraeus), Mykonos, Santorini, Argostoli (Cephalonia), Kotor, Dubrovnik, Ravenna, Rijeka, Venice (Fusina) Athens (Piraeus), Gythion, Igoumenitsa, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Koper, Venice (Fusina), Urbino (Ancona), Argostoli (Cephalonia), Santorini, Mykonos, Bozcaada, Istanbul Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Heraklion (Crete), Katakolon, Tirana (Durrës), Kotor, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Koper, Venice (Fusina) Istanbul, Kavala/Philippi, Thessaloniki, Mytilini (Lesbos), Ephesus (Kusadasi), Mykonos, Santorini, Gythion, Igoumenitsa, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Urbino (Ancona), Koper, Venice (Fusina) O
Seven Seas Navi ator® ATHENS TO ISTANBUL
86
14
5 OCT 2025
Seven Seas Grandeur TM ATHENS TO VENICE
74
10
5 OCT 2025
Seven Seas Vo a er® ISTANBUL TO VENICE
99
14
17 OCT 2025
O Overni ht in ort N NEW PORT OF CALL
ATHENS, GREECE
CRETE, GREECE
FOR ALL VOYAGES VISITING GREECE AND TO VIEW INCLUDED & UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS, VISIT RSSC.COM
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Saint-Tropez
Top Things To See and Do in
Saint-Tropez is known for its decadent lifestyle, high-end fashion, laid-back beach vibe and over-the-top partying. It does have other things to oer too, like art, history, beautiful scenery and wonderful walks. Here’s our list of the top 10 things to see and do when you visit.
BY ALEX LEDSOM
CHILL OUT ON PAMPELONNE BEACH It’s the most obvious choice but a visit to Saint-Tropez is not complete without visiting the most famous of its beaches and the place that put Saint-Tropez on the map. Brigitte Bardot arrived on the beach to film key scenes of her movie And God… Created Woman in the 1950s. They built a shack to house the crew, the Club 55, which is still the place to have dinner and celebrity-spot. The film made her — and the beach — a star.
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VISIT THE CITADEL & MUSEUM OF MARITIME HISTORY Saint-Tropez has a rich maritime heritage to discover. The Citadel was built in the 17th century after the King sent his engineer to oversee work to build a fortress that could fend o an attack. The Citadel was turned into a naval museum in the 1950s and now celebrates the lives of locals who worked and fought on the seas. The museum is housed in the dungeons, which have been protected since 1921, but the entire site received protected status in 1995.
TAKE IN THE VIEWS OVER CAP CAMARAT The Cap Camarat lighthouse is the second highest in France and oers amazing views over the bay. Afterwards you can swim on the beach below, called Bonnes Terrasse, or continue further round the coast on an even longer walk. A perfect escape from the parties and living the 'high life'.
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xxxxx Saint-Tropez
FOLLOW THE COASTAL PATH The coastline is wonderful around Saint-Tropez — full of rugged walkways and little paths that open out into expansive beaches. It’s possible to walk the entire coastline for miles and miles (the ' littoral '), stopping on the way at the Cap Camarat lighthouse before taking in the nudist beach at Tahiti Beach and ending up at a lovely beachside restaurant.
SAVOUR THE HISTORY OF LA PONCHE The historic fishing village of La Ponche is a wonderful place to wander around. It was a thriving harbour in the 18th and 19th-centuries and where all the fishermen used to live. Today, its cobbled streets and beautiful buildings are a wonderful place to hang out. The area also has one of the few parks in town.
EAT A TARTE TROPÉZIENNE Saint-Tropez has its own dessert that is hugely popular. The ' Tarte Tropézienne ' was created by a Polish baker in 1955 when he opened a bakery in the centre of town. It was based on the French brioche — but cut into two and filled with cream, using his grandmother’s recipe. He was asked to cater for Brigitte Bardot’s film crew working on Pampelonne beach. She loved his cake, named it and both became immensely popular.
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DRINK IN THE VIEUX PORT The social life of Saint-Tropez centres around the Old Port. Many of the good restaurants are located here and it’s a great place to have breakfast, an ' apéro ' (a pre-dinner drink) or a full-blown three- course meal. It’s where the night starts and continues into the early hours with some of the best clubs and bars. It’s a cliché but vital.
SEE AVANT-GARDE ART AT THE MUSÉE DE L’ANNONCIADE The penitent monks of Saint-Tropez built an old chapel in 1510 where they looked after returning prisoners of war. It’s a beautiful building. Now it houses the art museum specialising in art from the early half of the 20th century, particularly by Paul Signac. Small but beautifully formed.
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xxxxx Saint-Tropez
MUSÉE DE LA GENDARMERIE ET DU CINÉMA
Saint-Tropez has a rich film history. Several classic movies were filmed here and the film industry — thanks to Brigitte Bardot — put Saint-Tropez on the map. The old police headquarters, the ' gendarmerie ' used to be housed in this building but now it’s home to the Museum of Police and Cinema. There
is a link — the highest grossing movie of 1964 in France was
The Troops of Saint-Tropez about a police o²cer transferred into town to deal with nudists and his errant daughter. Charming and cute.
CHURCH OF NOTRE DAME DE L’ASSOMPTION
This large church presides over the whole town and it’s well worth a visit. You’re not allowed to take photos but there is some lovely artwork inside. The views from the top of the hill are stunning.
Alex Ledsom is an experienced travel writer and a contributor to Culture Trip. Culture Trip inspires people to explore the world’s culture and creativity through innovative technology and a network of local content creators. Their vision is to bring the world to everyone and in doing so bring everyone closer together. Visit www.culturetrip.com to learn more.
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Live lavishly on these all-inclusive, ultra-luxury journeys to
INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS
DATE
NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO
PORTS
Seven Seas S lendor® BARCELONA TO ROME
92
10
Barcelona, Castellon, Alicante, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, Provence (Marseille), Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo, Portofino, Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia)
14 APR 2024
130
Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Sete, Provence (Marseille), Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo O , Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia)
7
24 APR 2024
Seven Seas Grandeur ™ BARCELONA TO ROME
Seven Seas Navi ator® VENICE TO MONTE CARLO
75
Venice (Trieste), Split, Bari, Corfu, Catania (Sicily), Amalfi/Positano, Rome (Civitavecchia), Ajaccio (Corsica), Barcelona, Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Sete, Saint-Tropez, Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Porto Torres (Sardinia), Almeria, Malaga, Portimão, Lisbon Barcelona, Alicante, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, Provence (Marseille), Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo, Portofino, Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia)
10
24 MAY 2024
Seven Seas Vo a er® BARCELONA TO LISBON
69
10
8 JUN 2024
102
9
22 JUL 2024
Seven Seas Grandeur ™ BARCELONA TO ROME
Seven Seas Navi ator® BARCELONA TO ROME
101
Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, Provence (Marseille), Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo, Portofino, Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia)
10
18 SEP 2024
Seven Seas S lendor® MONTE CARLO TO ROME
68
Monte Carlo, Saint-Tropez, Barcelona, Castellón, Palma de Mallorca, La Goulette, Valletta, Sorrento/Capri, Rome (Civitavecchia)
9
22 JUN 2025
Seven Seas S lendor® BARCELONA TO ROME
101
Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, Provence (Marseille), Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo, Portofino, Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia)
10
22 JUL 2025
Seven Seas Navi ator® BARCELONA TO ATHENS
74
Barcelona, Saint-Tropez, Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Messina (Sicily), Istanbul O , Bozcaada, Athens (Piraeus)
10
13 SEP 2025
Seven Seas Mariner® BARCELONA TO ISTANBUL
104
Barcelona, Palamós, Provence (Marseille), Saint-Tropez, Tuscany (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), Salerno, Santorini, Athens (Piraeus), Kavala/Philippi, Istanbul O
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1 OCT 2025
O Overni ht in ort N NEW PORT OF CALL
FOR ALL VOYAGES VISITING SAINT-TROPEZ AND TO VIEW INCLUDED & UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS, VISIT RSSC.COM
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xxxxx France
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BY JOHN LASHBROOK FRENCH PASTRY
The atmosphere is warm and inviting. The air is filled with the sweet smell of freshly baked treats. The soft chatter, the clinking of silverware and the hiss of the espresso machine create a symphony that is somehow invigorating and calming all at once. You are greeted by a colourful display of delicate pastries, meticulously crafted and perfectly arranged, each looking more tempting and delicious than the last. From the classic croissants , macarons and éclairs to the lesser-known but equally tempting mille-feuille and tarte Tatin , an exquisite pastry selection is, without doubt, the cornerstone of many French cafés. But, what is it that gives French pastries that certain je ne sais quoi ? French cuisine is known for utilising high-quality ingredients and precise techniques to develop the right balance of flavours, textures and aesthetics to create a sensory experience that is both pleasing to the eye and the palate. It is truly a celebration of the art of cooking and the pleasure of dining — a reflection of the country’s rich culinary history and its dedication to culinary excellence.
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France
A BRIEF HISTORY OF FRENCH BAKING
The roots of French baking can be traced back to the Middle Ages when baking guilds were used to regulate the industry and ensure quality. During this time, bread was a staple food in France and was baked in communal ovens. Bakers would create their own unique bread recipes and would mark their loaves with a signature to distinguish them from others. In the 16th and 17th centuries, French baking became more sophisticated and refined, with the emergence of pastry chefs who specialised in creating elaborate desserts and pastries. It was during this Renaissance period that baking started to become elevated as an art form in France and royal and noble households began to employ skilled pastry chefs to create lavish desserts for their pleasure. As time went on, French pastry chefs continued to push the boundaries of their craft, experimenting with new techniques and ingredients to create even more extravagant and delicious desserts. One of the most influential figures in French pastry history was Marie-Antoine Carême, a renowned chef who elevated French cuisine to new heights during the 18th century. He is credited with developing croquembouche , a towering cone made of cream-filled pastry pus, and the Napoleon pastry. Widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of grand cuisine and French gastronomy, Carême emphasised the importance of presentation and aesthetics. His influence can still be seen in modern French baking techniques today.
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FRENCH PASTRIES TO TEMPT YOUR TASTE BUDS
RELIGIEUSE Religieuse is a classic French pastry composed of two cream-filled choux pastry shells, one slightly smaller than the other, stacked on top of each other and decorated with a glaze or icing. It is typically filled with vanilla or chocolate pastry cream. The name ' religieuse ' means 'nun' in French, as the pastry is said to resemble a nun in her habit.
CANELÉ Canelé is a small French pastry originating from the Bordeaux region, known for its thick, caramelised crust and soft, vanilla centre. Its unique shape, cylindrical with fluted sides, is achieved by baking in a special mould coated with beeswax and butter. A perfect snack or dessert, Canelé is often enjoyed with Chantilly cream and a cup of coee.
FRAISIER Fraisier is a classic French pastry made with layers of sponge cake, fresh strawberries, and pastry cream, all surrounded by a delicate layer of marzipan or fondant icing. It’s a light and refreshing dessert that is perfect for summer, and the combination of the sweet, juicy strawberries and rich pastry cream makes it a true delight for your palate.
OPÉRA Opéra is a classic French
dessert consisting of layers of almond
sponge cake soaked in coee syrup, chocolate ganache and coee buttercream. The cake is then topped with a smooth layer of chocolate glaze, creating a beautiful and decadent treat. Its rich flavours and elegant presentation make it a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations.
CHOUQUETTE Chouquettes are delightful French pastries made of choux pastry dough topped with crunchy pearl sugar. These bite-sized treats are simple yet delicious, with a light and airy texture, subtle sweetness and delicate crunch that make them a perfect accompaniment for afternoon tea.
John Lashbrook is the multifaceted owner and operator of PixelWorks (pxlwrx.com). Based in Florida, he’s travelled through North America and as far east as Asia, carrying with him a passion for fishing, excellent creative work and hilarious stand-up.
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France
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Seven Seas S lendor ® ROME TO BARCELONA
60
7
Rome (Civitavecchia), Tuscany (Livorno), Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Nice (Villefranche), Toulon, Palamos, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona
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86
18
29 APR 2024
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Seven Seas Vo a er ® VALLETTA TO BARCELONA
69
10
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10
30 MAY 2024
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24
8
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12 AUG 2024
Seven Seas Mariner ® AMSTERDAM TO BARCELONA
83
12
Amsterdam, Bruges (Zeebrugge), St. Peter Port (Guernsey), Bordeaux O , Biarritz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), Ferrol, Oporto, Lisbon, Seville (Cadiz), Barcelona
12 AUG 2024
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DATE
NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO
PORTS
Seven Seas S lendor ® SOUTHAMPTON TO OSLO
60
14
Southampton, Saint-Malo, Falmouth, Waterford, Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), Liverpool, Belfast, Ullapool, Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Lerwick (Shetland Islands), Alesund, Bergen, Stavanger, Arendal, Oslo
20 AUG 2024
Seven Seas Mariner ® BARCELONA TO ROME
112
12
Barcelona, Alicante, Granada (Motril), Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, Mahon (Menorca), Provence (Marseille), Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo, Portofino, Tuscany (Livorno), Olbia/Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Rome (Civitavecchia)
24 AUG 2024
Seven Seas Navi ator ® SOUTHAMPTON TO SOUTHAMPTON
46
10
Southampton, Vlissingen (Zeeland), Amsterdam (Ijmuiden), Bruges (Zeebrugge), Dunkerque, Calais, Paris (Honfleur) 2 O , Cherbourg, Saint-Malo
25 AUG 2024
Seven Seas Vo a er ® LISBON TO ROME
82
Lisbon, Portimão, Seville (Cadiz), Granada (Motril), Ibiza, Mahon (Menorca), Toulon, Cannes, Ajaccio (Corsica), Olbia/Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Rome (Civitavecchia)
10
15 SEP 2024
Seven Seas Navi ator ® ROME TO BARCELONA
64
Rome (Civitavecchia), Tuscany (Livorno), Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Cannes, Toulon, Palamos, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona
7
15 NOV 2024
60
Rome (Civitavecchia), Portoferraio (Elba), Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Nice (Villefranche), Toulon, Port-Vendres, Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza, Barcelona
9
9 MAY 2025
Seven Seas Grandeur ™ ROME TO BARCELONA
Seven Seas Vo a er ® BARCELONA TO SOUTHAMPTON
103
Barcelona, Cartagena, Málaga, Tangier, Seville (Cádiz), Lisbon, La Coruña, Santander, Lorient, St. Peter Port (Guernsey), Saint-Malo
12
25 JUN 2025
Seven Seas Mariner ® PARIS TO OSLO
65
18
12 AUG 2025
Paris (Le Havre), Calais, Antwerp O , Amsterdam, Copenhagen O , Kiel, Rønne (Bornholm), Gdansk (Gdynia), Klaipėda, Riga, Stockholm O , Visby, Oslo O
Seven Seas Navi ator ® OSLO TO BARCELONA
120
17
27 AUG 2025
Oslo, Skagen, Copenhagen O , Kiel, Rotterdam, Bruges (Zeebrugge), Paris (Honfleur), La Coruña, Vigo, Lisbon, Portimão, Málaga, Almeria, Ibiza, Barcelona
Seven Seas Grandeur TM PARIS TO BARCELONA
162
16
9 SEP 2025
Paris (Le Havre), Bordeaux 2 O , Bilbao, Gijón, La Coruña, Oporto, Lisbon, Seville (Cádiz), Málaga, Cartagena, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona
Seven Seas Mariner ® AMSTERDAM TO BARCELONA
87
Amsterdam, Bruges (Zeebrugge), St. Peter Port (Guernsey), Bordeaux O , Biarritz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), La Coruña, Oporto, Lisbon, Seville (Cádiz), Barcelona
12
19 SEP 2025
Seven Seas Vo a er ® ROME TO BARCELONA
113
Rome (Civitavecchia), Portoferraio (Elba), Tuscany (Livorno), Genoa, Toulon, Palamós, Ajaccio (Corsica), Olbia/Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Palma de Mallorca, Alicante, Valencia, Barcelona
12
14 NOV 2025
Seven Seas S lendor ® LISBON TO BARCELONA
137
Lisbon, Seville (Cádiz), Casablanca, Tangier, Málaga, Cartagena, Palma de Mallorca, Rome (Civitavecchia), Portoferraio (Elba), Tuscany (Livorno), Cannes, Toulon, Barcelona
14
27 MAR 2026
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xxxxx Spain
the TASTE of SPAIN By Liesl Noel
While rich in art, culture, museums, fascinating history and architecture, Spain is also home to flamenco and fiestas , bullfighting and beautiful beaches. But one of my favourite Spanish experiences is enjoying tapas! The Spanish have mastered the art of casually bringing people together, and tapas are the perfect accompaniment to the vibrance and allure Spain oers. WHAT ARE TAPAS? Tapas are small plates that include practically anything, whether a simple skewer of olives to a gourmet slow- cooked beef cheek served over a sweet potato puree. They’re a small taste of Spanish cuisine. These interesting dishes are traditionally served as a bite to eat with a drink and are an essential ingredient to the essence of the Spanish culture and social scene.
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Spain
TAPAS TO TRY While there are many appealing oerings, varied by area and establishment, there are some staples, other than the chorizo , that simply must be tried.
JAMÓN SERRANO — one of the most common servings, is a cured, salted and dried meat that is kept for a particular period to get the perfect texture and colour. Not just any ham makes the cut for this favourite delicacy.
The TORTILLA ESPAÑOLA (Spanish Omelette) is a tasty, soft, seasoned egg and potato dish that, while small, makes for a fairly substantial morsel.
CROQUETAS (Croquettes) are fried fritters, crispy on the outside, filled with a soft bechamel sauce that is flavoured with ham, chicken or shrimp, and cheese.
Now, a dish that may be a little more for the adventurous but well worth it is BOQUERONES EN VINAGRE — fresh anchovies (not as we know them) that have been marinated in salt water and then vinegar for hours, drained and seasoned to make an incredible dish. These are particularly well paired with beer!
GAMBAS AL AJILLO , shrimps in garlic, olive oil and white wine, cooked in the shell for more flavour, are a popular choice, especially with a glass of wine or beer.
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THE TAPAS EXPERIENCE It is typical custom to order drinks and then place small orders of food as you go along. Whatever your fancy, tapas are meant to be shared and enjoyed by all, which is what makes them so socially popular. If you stick to the traditional Spanish times, around 13:30 to 15:00 or 20:30 to 22:00, you’ll be sure to enjoy the freshest food and best atmosphere. It is the perfect way to try dierent foods and flavours and know what to get more of. THE HISTORY OF TAPAS It is believed that the tradition of serving tapas started when bartenders would place a small plate over drinks to stop dust from entering and flies from taking an unwanted sip, but legends stem back to medieval Spain to King Alfonso X, 'The Wise', of Castile. The most popular legend is that while the king was recovering from an illness, he had to take small bites of food with some wine between meals. When he was well again, he declared no wine was to be served without being accompanied by something to eat. This would prevent citizens from becoming too inebriated from the eects of alcohol on an empty stomach. There is also a theory that tapas stemmed from farmers and workers needing to eat small amounts of food to sustain their energy until their main meal. Rich in fat, the main meal (around lunchtime) was heavy to digest, so a ' siesta ' (nap) was needed before resuming an easier workload in the afternoon hours. Meals were typically served with wine, and when taverns were established all over the country, they honoured the king’s decree and covered the glass with a slice of smoked ham and cheese. Considering that the Spanish verb ' tapar ' means to cover, the stories seem to have merged into an idea that has become ingrained in Spanish culture. While the idea of tapas has spread worldwide, its true essence lies within its place of origin — Spain!
TAPAS IS SPAIN These interesting small dishes, regardless of their legendary origin, are an important part of Spanish cuisine and culture. Going out for tapas has created a way to try a variety of dishes and experience local flavours, and enjoy the great libations the country has to oer. Tapas have become synonymous with Spain, not only being an important part of the culture and cuisine but also associated with family and friends spending time together socialising. While we’ve all recreated our own version of tapas, there is nothing like socialising at the bar counter or around small tables or barrels having drinks, sampling food and enjoying the ultimate experience in the homeland of tapas. Keep your drinks covered! Liesl Noel is a gifted writer from South Africa. She’s spent years travelling the world with some of the world’s most influential people prior to becoming a proud mother, middle school language arts teacher and talented freelance writer.
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Spain
enjoy the tastes of SPAIN on these voyages
INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS
DATE
NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO
PORTS
Seven Seas Vo a er® LISBON TO BARCELONA
58
10
Lisbon, Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Arrecife (Lanzarote), Agadir, Casablanca, Seville (Cadiz), Barcelona
6 APR 2024
Seven Seas S lendor® MONTE CARLO TO SOUTHAMPTON
115
Monte Carlo, Provence (Marseille), Malaga, Tangier, Seville (Cadiz), Lisbon, Oporto, Ferrol, Bilbao, Bordeaux O , Biarritz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), Southampton
14
16 MAY 2024
Seven Seas Navi ator® MONTE CARLO TO AMSTERDAM
90
Monte Carlo, Provence (Marseille), Barcelona, Seville (Cadiz), Lisbon, Oporto, La Coruna, St. Helier (Jersey), Portsmouth, Bruges (Zeebrugge), Amsterdam
12
3 JUN 2024
Seven Seas Vo a er® LISBON TO LISBON
64
Lisbon, Vilagarcia, Ferrol, Gijon, Biarritz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), Bordeaux O , Bilbao, Oporto
10
18 JUN 2024
Seven Seas Vo a er® LISBON TO ANTWERP
81
Lisbon, Oporto, Vilagarcia, La Coruna, Bilbao, Biarritz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), Nantes (Montoir) O , Pont-Aven (Concarneau), Brest, St. Peter Port (Guernsey), Paris (Honfleur), Bruges (Zeebrugge), Antwerp O Belfast, Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), Waterford, La Rochelle, Bordeaux 2 O , Biarritz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), Gijon, Tangier, Melilla, Alicante, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona
14
28 JUN 2024
Seven Seas Vo a er® BELFAST TO BARCELONA
75
15
21 JUL 2024
Seven Seas Mariner® LISBON TO BARCELONA
58
Lisbon, Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz de la Palma, Santa Cruize de Tenerife, Arrecife (Lanzarote), Agadir, Casablanca, Seville (Cadiz), Barcelona
10
2 OCT 2024
Seven Seas Mariner® LISBON TO BARCELONA
60
Lisbon, Portimão, Casablanca, Tangier, Almeria, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona
7
27 OCT 2024
Seven Seas Mariner® BARCELONA TO MIAMI
37
14
3 NOV 2024
Barcelona, Malaga, Funchal (Madeira), Hamilton O , Miami
Seven Seas Navi ator® BARCELONA TO MIAMI
52
Barcelona, Alicante, Malaga, Funchal (Madeira), San Juan, Miami
14
22 NOV 2024
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PORTS
Seven Seas Grandeur TM MIAMI TO BARCELONA
65
14
Miami, Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas), Royal Naval Dockyard, Horta (Azores), Seville (Cádiz), Valencia, Barcelona
19 MAR 2025
Seven Seas Navi ator® ROME TO AMSTERDAM
126
15
Rome (Civitavecchia), Portofino, Monte Carlo, Provence (Marseille), Barcelona, Seville (Cádiz), Portimão, Lisbon, Oporto, La Coruña, Paris (Honfleur), Antwerp O , Amsterdam (Ijmuiden)
25 MAY 2025
Seven Seas Grandeur TM LISBON TO SOUTHAMPTON
51
10
1 JUN 2025
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Seven Seas S lendor® LISBON TO MONTE CARLO
83
Lisbon, Seville (Cádiz), Gibraltar, Melilla, Alicante, Ibiza, Barcelona O , Toulon, Monte Carlo
10
12 JUN 2025
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119
Venice (Fusina), Rijeka, Dubrovnik, Bari, Argostoli (Cephalonia), Catania (Sicily), Rome (Civitavecchia), Tuscany (Livorno), Monte Carlo, Mahón (Menorca), Barcelona
12
13 JUN 2025
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74
12
Hamburg, Amsterdam, Bruges (Zeebrugge), Paris (Honfleur), St. Peter Port (Guernsey), Lorient, Bordeaux (Le Verdon), Bordeaux O , La Coruña, Oporto, Lisbon
2 SEP 2025
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57
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Turkey
WHEN IN ISTANBUL CHOOSE YOUR OWN KEBAB ADVENTURE
BY TERRY WARD
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GO BEYOND DÖNER DURING A PORT OF CALL IN TURKEY AND TEMPT YOUR TASTE BUDS TO THE EXTREME
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xxxxx Turkey
BOSPHORUS BRIDGE & ORTAKÖY MOSQUE ISTANBUL, TURKEY
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The rich legacy and diverse flavours of Turkish cuisine — touched by Mediterranean, Central Asian and Iranian influences, among many others — is what many visitors most remember about calling into port in Turkey. After all, who could forget that first strong, yet layered taste of your first real Turkish coee or raising a delicate glass of the ubiquitous apple tea enjoyed almost everywhere? But if you try only one Turkish speciality in Istanbul, make it the country’s venerable and humble kebap (also called kebab). Perhaps Türkiye’s most legendary food export — and a favourite among late-night revellers in cities all over the world, where it roasts on vertical rotisseries as döner kebap everywhere from Manhattan to Berlin — kebap is Turkish for 'roasted.' The name refers to a dish of marinated meats cooked on a skewer, preferably over a charcoal grill. As you might expect in a country that brings as much to the table as Turkey, however, döner kebap — one version of the dish, made with lamb on a spit — only scratches the surface when it comes to the diverse kebaps you can sink your teeth into in the dish’s motherland. Read on for a few of the best ocakbaşı (grill side) restaurants across Istanbul’s lively neighbourhoods, from Ortaköy and Fatih to Taksim and Nişantaşı, and get ready to sample various styles of kebap in the city that knows them best. HARBI ADANA OCAKBAŞI For an inexpensive feast in Ortaköy, in Istanbul’s Beşiktaş neighbourhood (one of the city’s oldest barrios), Harbi Adana Ocakbaşı is known for its delicious Adana kebap . A speciality of the large southern Turkey city of Adana, it’s made from hand-minced ground lamb squeezed around a skewer and bears similarities to the Persian dish called kabab koobideh . Order a bottle of Turkish raki and settle in for a meal to remember.
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