Having the luxury of being able to travel a lot I have experience incredible hotels, wonderful places and fascinating experiences. To get all this and more under one roof is an absolute win in my book.
Our itinerary brought us from Athens to Istanbul stopping off in Mykonos, Skopelos, Volos, along the way. In between some incredible cultural experiences in Athens and Istanbul we had the most amazing beach time and island time in Mykonos and Skopelos. Because the ship only holds around 900 passengers, it is able to dock in places that other ships can’t. Don’t get me wrong in thinking the ship is small, it could actually hold 2,000 passengers but has chosen to use its space in such a way that the passengers have more pools, more restaurants, more space than any other ship.
All cabins on this stunning vessel are suite class and there are an incredible selection of restaurants to chose from. After a nice room my second priority on a holiday is good food. I have never eaten so well on a holiday before. Not one disappointing meal and the service everywhere we went was outstanding. My favourite restaurant was Sakura, a pan Asian spot, beautifully decorated. There is a super steak house called Marble & co, the Med, Fils Rouge and Anthology. The food Emporium was my favourite breakfast and lunch place with a range of food counters that would cook up your preferred option depending on what you fancied.
The ship had 4 pools, the infinity one on the 5th floor was my favourite one to sit at mid afternoon watching the day go by. The Journey lounge was a great spot for afternoon tea on the 11th floor, just like the Shelbourne, or a pre dinner cocktail. The gym was spacious and kitted out to the 9’s. This is where I did the sundial yoga daily which is included in everyone’s package. The spa is super, my hot tip is to go on a day you are in port, I had the place to my self and a fabulous massage.
There is a Pickle Ball court on board, a beautiful coffee bar with delicious Portuguese tarts and home made chocolate, a Whisky Bar, some fancy shopping, grand pianos with Steinway pianists, salsa dancing, educational talks and of course a different place every day.
I really didn’t want to disembark the day we left. I felt so nourished, and cared for, and fulfilled. 5 star staff, 5 star restaurants, 5 star itinerary, my favourite ship out there, Explora 1. The Travel Suite organised it all from beginning to end. Everything was included in the price; flights, accommodation, food, beverages, entertainment, and service. This ship does not disappoint, it is the best in its class.Stephanie
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