Embarking and disembarking in romantic Venice,Italy affords many options, both pre- and post- cruise; whether it be a gondola ride or a walk through St. Mark’s Square or a visit to the Murano glass factory, there is so much culture and architecture to see and ambiance to soak up, the options are limitless.

The first port is Opatija, Croatia, the Riviera of Croatia with its walkways and cafés running along the water and wonderful seafood restaurants and upscale hotels right along the seafront.  There are beautiful parks, extraordinary botanical plantings and, for those interested, paragliding.

The second port is Split, Croatia is a World Heritage Site with busy port, beaches, a walled palace and so much more.  Suffice it to say, Fodor’s calls this port “so spectacular and unusual that a visit is more than worth your time.”  Seabourn is offering a canoing trip that sounds quite enticing.

Next is Kotor, Montenegro, a UNESCO site, is one of the best preserved Medieval towns on the Adriatic.  With beautiful overhanging cliffs it is an extraordinary vision.  UPDATE:  I will be offering a complimentary Ensemble Experience here.  (Details are still being finalized.)

Triluke Bay, Croatia is up next; a protected cove for a Marina Day and to relax in incredible beauty with ancient villages, beaches, olive groves and such.

Koper, Slovenia is the fourth port where wine and cheese is at the fore with a number of unique options available including a visit to a local winery in an antique car or a walking tour with a wine and cheese tasting along the way.  This is another ancient town with cobblestone streets and interesting shopping as well.

Back to Italy, as Trieste is our last port.  This city is said to have a more Viennese than Venetian heritage with Slavic dialects and foods being most common.  This medieval town has the largest seaside square in Europe.  Just image the wine and culinary treats which await us there!

As a bonus, Seabourn has just priced this as a 50% off cruise for anyone who has previously sailed with Seabourn or any of the Carnival group of cruise lines.  Add the additional discount (and added benefits – to be announced later) that Goldring Travel provides and this is a tremendous travel bargain both as to experiences and pricing.

I am also pleased that the demand to join our exclusive and small group for the 2009 Goldring Travel Food & Wine Cruise aboard the Seabourn Spirit has been fantastic. With every person who enjoyed the 2008 Food & Wine cruise having booked for this one (and quite a number are making this their third one!), it is a testament not only to the added benefits of being part of the group, but the fun we have.

If you are interested, I would urge you to make your booking now for the cruise is quickly filling up.  (Yes, even now!).  And remember: The added benefits such as the Food & Wine Tasting, are exclusive to those who book with Goldring Travel.  If you are interested, call me at (877) 2GO-LUXURY or email me at eric@goldringtravel.com.