By Jane Miller
Rick Steves has provided information about traveling to Europe to Americans for many years. A well-respected expert, Steves has never been fond of the favorite travel experience, cruising. In fact, he wrote, “I’ve long been less than enthusiastic about cruises. Years ago, cruising seemed like a rich person’s hobby — more hedonism than travel.” Because cruising is so popular with Americans, he has written a book specifically to assist people make the most of the Mediterranean cruise ports.
Leaving information about cruise ships and cruising to others, Rick has focused on how to get the most of eight hours in some of the most amazing cities in the world. While Steves guide books have provided information about European cities for travelers who have multiple days in one local, Rick Steves’ Mediterranean Cruise Ports provides the highlights and the must-sees for the primary Mediterranean ports of call. No skimping on content Steves, has synthesized his sightseeing tips for what people can see and do with only one day in port. “Each of the book’s destination chapters is designed as a mini-vacation of its own, with advice about what to do and detailed sightseeing information for each port.”
Not only does Steves highlight each European city, but includes important information about how to get from the ship to the heart of town, an often difficult task if one isn’t on a provided excursion. In addition, to sharing the information about each city, he advises whether you’re better off taking the shore excursion.
Some of the locations discussed in the book are: Barcelona; Toulon/Marseille in Provence; Nice, Villefrenche, Monaco on the French Riviera; Florence, Pisa, Lucca; Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, Amalfi Coast; Spit and Dubrovnik in Croatia; Greek Islands; Istanbul; and Ephesus. Each site includes the text for the best European walking tours, as well as museum tours.
From the framework of “if you can’t beat them, join them” Rick Steves still admits he personally isn’t a fan of cruising. But, he also sees why many people are, both from the cost and convenience perspective. This book is written for the people who like to cruise, but aren’t content to just sip Mia Tia’s by the ships’ pool. If you love to cruise, but also want to experience all that Europe’s cities have to offer in one day, Rick Steves’ Mediterranean Cruise Ports is a must.