Enjoy some winter warmth and cultural delights during

Transcription

1 A Taste of SPAIn,Madeira & Morocco An exploration aboard the MV Aegean Odyssey 6th to 19th NOVEMBER 2015 BOO and K early save up to 350 PER PERS ON

2 Menara Imperial Gardens, Marrakech Enjoy some winter warmth and cultural delights during this voyage aboard the MV Aegean Odyssey from Malaga to Madeira, the Canary Islands and Morocco. MADEIRA Funchal Cadiz SPAIN From the historical Spanish mainland port of Cadiz the MV Aegean Odyssey heads for Madeira. In 1951, Winston Churchill wanted to retreat somewhere warm, bathable, comfortable and flowery where he could paint and work on his war memoirs. Wisely, he chose Madeira and during our visit to the island we will see Camara de Lobos, one of the villages that inspired Churchill to paint, and also enjoy some free time to explore the famous Botanical Gardens. CANARY ISLANDS Fuerteventura La Palma ATLANTIC OCEAN El Marsa Laayoune WESTERN SAHARA DESERT Agadir Tangier Rabat Casablanca MOROCCO Marrakech Taroudant Malaga We continue to the Canary Islands for a visit to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park and journey deep inland to Fuerteventura a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with its historic churches and rugged landscapes. Before reaching Morocco and a chance to experience Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Marrakech, plus the exciting city of Taroudant, there is time to call at the port of El Marsa. From here we will venture into the sand dunes of the Western Sahara Desert and experience one of the great wildernesses of the world. We are delighted to be working with Voyages to Antiquity on this fascinating journey which is so much more than a holiday instead it is a cultural discovery shared with like-minded travellers. Our association with their vessel the MV Aegean Odyssey dates back to the company s foundation in As cruise vessels grow ever larger and the itineraries become seemingly irrelevant, it is refreshing to work with a company like Voyages to Antiquity who, like us, place the emphasis very much on the ports of call, the integrity of the onboard lecture programme and, of course, the size of the vessel. GUEST SPEAKER Dr. Joyce Salisbury, Professor Emerita of History, University of Wisconsin Joyce grew up in Brazil and Mexico, then moved to the States and obtained a PhD in Medieval History from Rutgers University in New Jersey. She was endlessly curious about what shapes people s actions, and thus focused on the history of religion and aspects of social history. When she retired, she could indulge her twin passions of writing books and giving lectures all over the world. Joyce is an author of more than ten books, including a best-selling western civilisation textbook, The West in the World, and other non-fiction books on history and religion, including The Beast Within: Animals in the Middle Ages, The Blood of Martyrs: Unintended Consequences of Ancient Violence and the award-winning Perpetua s Passion: Death and Memory of a Young Roman Woman. She is currently writing a biography of the Roman Empress Galla Placidia, weaving theology and daily life into the narrative. Jerez, Cadiz

3 Funchal s Botnical Gardens Caldera de Taburiente Marjorelle Gardens The Itinerary Day 1 London to Malaga, Spain. Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MV Aegean Odyssey and embark. Day 2 Cadiz, Spain. Cadiz was the gateway to the New World and its old town reflects the city s rich history with its cluster of narrow streets opening on to charming small squares. Our tour today will start with a panoramic drive, passing the 18th century Baroque cathedral and its towering golden domes where the famous composer Manuel de Falla is buried, then around the old part of the city with its splendid views over the bay. You will see the Plaza Espana and the gardens where the famous monument of Las Cortes (Spanish Parliament) of 1812 is situated. We continue to the Moorish-style Alameda de Apodaca Gardens, a reminder of their occupancy in past centuries. Next drive to Jerez de la Frontera and one of the most famous wine cellars in Jerez. Here, the age-old process of blending is explained and you will be invited to sample the various types of wine in the unique atmosphere of these wine cellars. Return to the MV Aegean Odyssey for an afternoon sailing. Day 3 At sea. A day to relax onboard as we sail to Madeira, perhaps attend a lecture or two. Day 4 Funchal, Madeira. We arrive in Madeira for our exploration which includes a scenic tour, starting off along the rugged west coast road to the picturesque fishing village of Camara de Lobos, once painted by Sir Winston Churchill. Continue on through eucalyptus forests to reach Cabo Girao. From a superb viewpoint, see the 2nd highest sea cliff in the world and mountain slopes that have been carved into terraces. A couple more scenic viewpoints await before we return to MV Aegean Odyssey for an overnight mooring. Day 5 Funchal, Madeira. Today there will be free time to explore at leisure perhaps take a cocktail at Reid s Hotel, visit the Botanical Gardens or taste Madeira s famous wine before an early evening departure. Day 6 La Palma, Canary Islands. Sailing into the harbour of Santa Cruz on the island of La Palma, we are greeted by the island s stunning volcanic landscape. There will be a choice of excursions today. Exploring La Palma, the guided tour will take you to the highest point of the island, home to the charming town of El Paso, then on to the southern tip of La Palma and Fuencaliente for refreshments. Alternatively, travel inland to the Caldera de Taburiente. Designated a National Park, this particular volcanic crater is five miles wide and its rims reach right up to the mountain ridge that runs from the north to the south of the island. The crater was not actually formed as a result of volcanic activity, but from subsequent erosion, and it is forested with the exceptional fireresistant Canary Pine. Day 7 Fuerteventura, Canary Islands. Fuerteventura might be known for its amazing beaches, but there is a lot more to this island. On today s excursion we will journey deep inland to discover forgotten villages dotted with whitewashed houses, beautiful old churches and hidden cobbled streets. We will visit the traditional former capital, Betancuria, and the picturesque village of Pajara and also call in at an aloe vera plantation, stop in the Western Sahara windmill museum and get the best look at the island s rugged interiors from the site of the Guanche Kings. These huge statues stand at one of the highest points in Fuerteventura, serving up panoramic views of the countryside below. Day 8 El Marsa, Western Sahara Desert. From the port of El Marsa drive across the sand dunes through one of the world s great desert landscapes to the city of Laayoune. There are not many travellers who can boast of a visit to the territory of the Western Sahara mostly consisting of flat desert it is one of the least populated regions in the world. Take in the unique Spanish- Saharan architecture in the old town, visit the catholic church and see the food and artisan markets. Day 9 At sea. A day to relax onboard as we sail to Morocco. Day 10 Agadir/Taroudant/ Marrakesh, Morocco. Arrive at the southern Moroccan port of Agadir and drive through the fertile Souss Valley to the old imperial city of Taroudant where we will explore the medina with its ancient souks before an afternoon drive through the Atlas Mountains to Marrakesh where we will stay overnight in a hotel allowing ample time for our exploration. Day 11 Marrakech/Casablanca, Morocco. Spend the morning on a guided tour of the top sites of the atmospheric city of Marrakech: stroll along labyrinthine alleyways of the Old Quarter, catching glimpses of mosques, hammams and traditional public bakeries. Visit the Marjorelle Gardens, a haven of peace and beauty, once owned by designer Yves St Laurent. We continue on foot through the colourful souks which are organised according to goods sold and where craftsmen can be seen practicing their traditional handwork. After a stroll through this maze of narrow streets, protected from the sun by a high trellis cover, we emerge onto the famous Djemma el-fna Square, where throughout the ages local people and African caravans have gathered for entertainment, celebrations, gossip and business. Here we stop at the foot of the famous Koutoubia Minaret, one of the masterpiece works of Islamic architecture. In the afternoon, drive to Casablanca to re-join the MV Aegean Odyssey and moor overnight. Day 12 Casablanca, Morocco. Located on the Atlantic coast, Rabat, meaning fortified place is the focus of our tour today. Highlights include the old medina, the picturesque Kasbah of the Oudayas and the Oudaya Gate, built during the Almohad dynasty, the well-preserved Hassan Tower and the Chellah which were built by the Merinids in the 12th and 13th centuries. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before sailing this evening.

4 Atlas Mountains Moroccan Spice Market Cape Spartel Lighthouse Detail of Hassan II Mosque Day 13 Tangier, Morocco. Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea before arriving in Tangier this afternoon. Travelling along the promenade, we will arrive at the caves of Hercules, a place of stunning natural beauty where legend has it Hercules rested after his 12 labours. Continue to Cape Spartel Lighthouse. More than a century old it shines a warning beacon to ships sailing between the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Arriving back in Tangier, visit the Medina whose wall marks the line of the Roman defences, the grand Mosque and the Petit Socco covers the area of what used to be the Forum. The bustling Kasbah is situated on the highest part of the Medina in an area that has been the preserve of palaces and castles for thousands of years. Day 14 Malaga, Spain to London. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Malaga Airport for our scheduled flight to London. PRE-Cruise Madrid Extension Prices per person Based on double occupancy BOOK EARLY AND SAVE UP TO 350 PER PERSON PLUS BOOK A BALCONY CABIN AND RECEIVE COMPLIMENTARY FLIGHT UPGRADE TO CLUB EUROPE Cat Cabin Description Deck Brochure Price Special Offer M Standard Inside Belvedere/Columbus L Premium Inside Columbus K Premium Inside Belvedere J Standard Outside Columbus I* Premium Outside Bridge H Premium Outside Belvedere/Columbus G Premium Outside Bridge/Lido F Deluxe Stateroom, Outside Lido/Belvedere/Bridge E Deluxe Stateroom, Outside Belvedere D Deluxe Stateroom, Balcony Belvedere C Deluxe Stateroom, Balcony Bridge/Lido B Junior Suites, Balcony Lido A Owner s Suites, Balcony Lido Single Cabins MM Standard Inside, Single Belvedere JJ Standard Outside, Single Columbus II* Premium Outside, Single Bridge HH* Premium Outside, Single Belvedere/Bridge GG* Premium Outside, Single Bridge/Lido EE Deluxe Outside, Single Belvedere CC Deluxe Balcony, Single Lido Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, (Club Europe for passengers in Balcony Cabin), 12 nights aboard the MV Aegean Odyssey on full board basis, selected wines with dinner onboard, overnight hotel accommodation in Marrakech, shore excursions as detailed, in-depth lecture programme, onboard gratuities, overseas transfers and baggage handling, port taxes and airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, gratuities ashore, visas, optional excursions. NB. Ports subject to change. Local weather conditions may affect itinerary. All special offers are subject to availability. Extend your holiday with an optional two-night hotel stay in Madrid. The extension includes accommodation in a 5-star hotel with breakfast before joining the MV Aegean Odyssey in Malaga, half day city sightseeing tour, transfers and high-speed train ticket between Madrid and Malaga. Prices per person based on double occupany: Twin: 349 per person Single: 475 Medina +44 (0)

5 MV Aegean Odyssey T he MV Aegean Odyssey is a premium class ship that was rebuilt to cater for cruising in the coastal waters of the central and southern Mediterranean. Originally a mid-size vessel carrying up to 570 passengers, the new configuration includes generously sized suites, staterooms and cabins with and without balconies, which means she now accommodates an average of 350 guests. The vessel provides the best features of a mid-size ship such as passenger space, a choice of restaurants and stability in inclement weather. She also has the personal service and intimate surroundings of a small ship. Your Suite/Stateroom/Cabin All suites, staterooms and cabins are en suite and feature a bath and/or shower, flat screen TV, safe, hair dryer and are fully air-conditioned. Guests in Balcony Class (categories A to D) will also enjoy: a stateroom or suite with balcony, a welcome bottle of Champagne, a fridge stocked with soft drinks, complimentary bottled water, robe and slippers, Molton Brown bathroom amenities and priority sightseeing boarding. The sizes, layout and bed configuration will vary within a category. Beds may be fixed double (queen size), fixed separate twin beds or twin beds that can be converted into double beds. All outside staterooms and cabins have windows except Category J, most of which have portholes. Your Space Onboard you will find two restaurants; the Marco Polo Restaurant on the Marco Polo deck and the Terrace Café on the Promenade Deck which has a beautiful outdoor seating area so passengers can enjoy dining al fresco in warm weather. There are four bars on board and three lounges so there will always be space for relaxation and quiet when desired, as well as ample room for socialising with new found friends. There is also a lecture theatre, a library, shop and internet centre. The on-board library features an extensive range of volumes covering classical history, literature, art, architecture and philosophy. To attend to the body as well as the mind, you can relax on the sweeping sun decks and cool off in the outdoor pool. There is also a fully-equipped gym with lockers and showers, sauna, massage and beauty treatment rooms and early morning yoga. The hairdressers and beauty centre are located on the Belvedere Deck adjacent to the reception area. Dining The MV Aegean Odyssey offers numerous dining spaces and a varied, sumptuous cuisine. As well as being one of the world s most historically interesting and naturally beautiful destinations, the Mediterranean is home to an unsurpassed culinary tradition. The gastronomic culture of using the very best fresh local ingredients cooked in a simple but delicious and healthy style is the inspiration for the restaurants aboard the Aegean Odyssey. The Terrace Cafe appetisers, soup, salads, a choice of three or four main courses and desserts. The complimentary house wines are carefully sourced from Italy, France and Greece. There is also a full wine list of alternative vintages available. With a combination of indoor and outdoor seating, sophisticated Mediterranean interior design and cooking on the open grill, the Terrace Café replicates the charm and ambience of a trattoria. As well as the grill, there is a large buffet. The day starts in the Terrace Café with breakfast where you can enjoy a healthy combination of yogurt, fruit and muesli or indulge in eggs, bacon or an omelette. Every afternoon you will find a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, cakes and scones served in the Terrace Cafe or the Observation Lounge. Cat GG Cabin The most elegant of the ship s restaurants, the Marco Polo has a casual country-club ambience and Mediterranean influenced food. At lunch, you can choose from a variety of starters, three dishes of the day and a choice of desserts, fruit and cheese. In the evening, dinner will include In the evenings, Tapas on the Terrace recreates the informal yet sophisticated atmosphere of a Mediterranean bistro. Equal care has been given to the selection of included wines served at Tapas on the Terrace; these will be served at your table by our helpful waiting staff. For those passengers

6 Library Aft deck Charleston Lounge Cat E Cabin Lido enjoying a late night discussing the excitements of the day s sightseeing, a selection of light snacks freshly prepared by the onboard chefs will be available in the Charleston Lounge. BRIDGE # 406 Life Onboard Classically elegant but far from stuffy and formal, the MV Aegean Odyssey has been designed to offer the sophisticated traveller every comfort at sea. During your cruise, there will be a programme of lectures and discussions designed to not only inform and entertain you, but also to bring to life the wonderful sites you will visit. For your Comfort, Safety and Security Ask any world traveller where they receive the best service and they will undoubtedly answer the Far East. Of all the nationalities in that part of the world, it is the Filipinos who carry the highest reputation for attention to detail. Fluent in English and always serving with a smile, the Filipino crew will win your hearts. They, and the rest of the officers and crew, are dedicated to making your holiday a delightful experience throughout. Valet service is available for laundry and pressing. OBSERVATION LOUNGE LIDO BAR OBSERVATION DECK LIDO BAR POOL AMBASSADOR LOUNGE CHARLESTON LOUNGE LIBRARY SHOP TERRACE CAFE BAR THE TERRACE RECEPTION HAIR 543 DRESSER INTERNET ATHENA 464 HEALTH 463 SPA MEDICAL MARCO POLO RESTAURANT The MV Aegean Odyssey is fitted with the latest satellite communication technology with direct dial telephones in all cabins. There is also an internet centre on Belvedere Deck for which there is a charge based on time connected. There is a doctor onboard for the duration of your trip and the Medical Centre is located on the Columbus Deck. A B C D E LIDO DECK BRIDGE DECK Owner s Suites, Balcony Junior Suites, Balcony Deluxe Stateroom, Balcony Deluxe Stateroom, Balcony Deluxe Stateroom, Outside PROMENADE DECK BELVEDERE DECK F Deluxe Stateroom, Outside G Premium Outside H Premium Outside I* Premium Outside J Standard Outside COLUMBUS DECK MARCO POLO DECK K Premium Inside L Premium Inside M Standard Inside 2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0) info@noble-caledonia.co.uk Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Cover image: Colourful Moroccan Doorways _K