Eastern Mediterranean: Sand, Surf and Spice!

Old world charm, stunning beaches and exotic cuisine the eastern Mediterranean is a sun lover’s paradise. Bordering the Eastern Flank of the Mediterranean, it is home to some of the world’s most exciting and spectacular cities including Cyprus, Istanbul, Egypt, Rome, Venice, Florence, Naples, Athens, Dubrovnik, Aleppo, Damascus, Beirut, Jerusalem, Amman, Cairo and Alexandria. To help guide you through the many wonders of the eastern Mediterranean let’s look at three of the most popular destinations. 

Heather Mizzi at Piazzale Michelangelo

 

Paphos, Cyprus
Paphos is a coastal city in the southwest of Cyprus. It is the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty.  The breathtaking beaches must be one of her many gifts to this awe-inspiring country.

Cyprus is a popular sun destination with over 2.4 million tourists per year. And it is gaining popularity as a cycling and trekking destination. It is truly the best way to discover the most unspoiled parts of the island. The eastern coast is famous for its fine white sandy beaches with shallow turquoise waters. Deep water bays are perfect for snorkeling or diving.

• Cyprus lies in the eastern Mediterranean and is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia. • Preferred currency:  euro
• English is spoken by 90% of the people in both Northern and Southern Cyprus.

Istanbul, Turkey
Old world meets new world in Istanbul. You can shop the day away in ancient old world bazaars and at night join the many tourists and locals at one of the ultra modern night clubs like Crystal, Istanbul’s premier hot spot.

Istanbul appeals to all types of travelers with religious tours of Seven Churches of Apocalypse to adventure tours like Jeep safaris and rock climbing. Istanbul has it all!

• The summer months in Istanbul are warm and humid with very little rain especially between July-August. Spring and autumn are mild and are considered the best time for visitors.
• Istanbul is one of the biggest cities in the world, with a population of over 13 million.
• The New Turkish Lira (YTL) is the currency used in Istanbul though the euro and US dollar are also accepted at places frequented by tourists.

Florence, Italy
Dashing is how I would describe Florence, Italy. It’s rare to see an Italian looking drab.  Fashion and design are just one of the many wonders of Italy. Wine, leather and fine cuisine are high on the list too.  Unless it was a sour grape from a Tuscan vineyard (which I doubt could happen!), I don’t know of anyone who has left Italy with a bad taste in their mouth.

Florence is one of the emerald cities of Italy. The smell of leather and pasta collide as you walk towards the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore in the historic city centre.   Pucci, Escada and Gucci come into view as you make your way to the Piazzale Michelangelo. The hike to the top is worth the trouble to see the panoramic view of this lover’s paradise.

• Florence is actually Firenze pronounced: fi-ren’-zay. It is located in the region of Toscana (Tuscany)
• The population of Florence is around half a million
• The euro is the preferred currency.
• English is spoken by many locals however they appreciate it when Italian is attempted.

Tranquil blue seas, exotic cuisine, spice bazaars and more await you in the eastern Mediterranean!

Check out www.insightvacations.com  for the latest travel packages to the eastern Mediterranean.  Your Maritime Travel agent will be pleased to assist you with any inquiries you may have about your travels.