It was a trip of firsts – my first time to the Mediterranean, first time travelling without my kids and after dreaming about it for so long- my first time on a Viking Cruise. And I am pleased to report, it was an absolute delight from start to finish.

This also just so happens to be my first attempt at writing the Scenic News column (so please bear with me).

My return to international travel was aboard the Viking Cruise from Istanbul to Athens. The Ancient Mediterranean Treasury itinerary took us from Troy, to Ephesus, to Rhodes, and finally Crete.

Our vessel, Viking Sky, was tastefully decorated with modern Scandinavian design, and beautifully laid out. The stateroom was spacious and had everything we could need. Holding a maximum of 930 passengers she is just the perfect size – large enough to find your own private nook but small enough to make meaningful friendships by managing to run into the same people more than once. It never felt crowded – you never would have known it was close to capacity.

The ambiance of the ship is simple and elegant. The people onboard were easy-going and friendly, and shared our interests in travel and passion for exploration. I can see why it is called the thinking person’s cruise, with port excursions, daily talks and historians sharing their knowledge of the region. I have to add – the ‘no kids’ policy suited to a tee... there were quite a few multigenerational families on board, and I could definitely see myself doing this sort of trip with my children and grandparents in the future.

The service onboard was impeccable. The staff were courteous, helpful, and always wanted to know if there was anything they could do to make our trip better. Addressing us by our names and remembering our coffee and cocktail drink orders.

The dining options onboard were incredible, from The Chef’s Table dinner, the fine dining Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant, the World Café to the Pool Grill. It is also great to note that all restaurants are included in your fare, as well as room service. I must confess – the endless supply of homemade fresh ice cream and gelato was far too tempting for me to resist.

Shore excursion choices were varied and there was always something for everyone. The excursions featured knowledgeable and engaging local guides. It is hard to pick out my favourite excursions but visiting Gallipoli with my husband, an ex-defence member, was an especially moving experience, as was exploring the Ancient city of Ephesus. The Taste of Cretan Hospitality tour was also fabulous – it started with a scenic drive to the archaeological site of the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, followed by a visit to a local winery for tasting and all the cheese platters you could dream of, and then to top the day, off our guide, Evan, then took us to his house where his Mama had cooked up a feast (the most amazing Moussaka ever). Every person who did this tour could not stop raving about it once back onboard the ship, we were touched by the Cretan hospitality and will never forget it.

Contact Renee for details P: 07 5545 1600
E: travel@travellingplaces.com.au