http://portprofiles.com/wordpress Your First Stop Before Stepping Ashore Sun, 09 Nov 2008 14:42:06 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en On a Baltic cruise? You can get to Berlin from the German port cities of Rostock and Warnemunde. You'll need to prepare yourself to hit the ground running, however, as Berlin is nearly a three-hour journey each way. Here's how to make the most of one day in Berlin. Prepare for ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/11/port-of-call-berlin/ Shuffling my feet along a street made from marble slabs, I am following in the footsteps of the Virgin Mary, who, our guide tells us, lived near this ancient city, now part of Turkey, in the final years of her life. The Marble Road cuts through the heart of what ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/10/the-marble-road-ephesus/ Stockholm may just be the most beautiful city in the world to reach by water. The journey begins nearly 50 miles east, at the tip of a beautiful archipelago comprised of 30,000 islands, islets and rocks. Many of the islands are uninhabited, rocky outcrops that are homes only to birds. Other ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/08/stockholm-highlights/ A few key points that you should keep in mind if you are cruising to or from Stockholm: Most cruise passengers arrive in Stockholm at one of two places: Arlanda Airport (Stockholm serves as the initial port of departure for many cruises); or for those arriving by sea, the city center. If ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/08/stockholm-frequently-asked-questions/ If there is one phrase that characterizes Quebec, it is 'et pourquoi pas?' The phrase, which translates to 'and why not?' seems to be on the tip of every Quebecer's tongue. It is a ready response of permissiveness and tolerance, a defender of an important concept -- the joie ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/08/marvelous-montreal/ It's a 2.5-hour drive from Quebec City to the Saguenay region. We pointed our car toward La Baie, where we checked in to L' Auberge des 21. Located on the shore of the Saguenay Fjord, the warm family inn also features fine regional (read: French) cuisine at a shockingly good ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/08/seductive-saguenay/ Quebec City offers beauty, fine dining and delightful diversions. And that's just in the train station. Our three-hour train journey from Montreal to Quebec ended in what has been called 'the most beautiful train station in North America.' Reminiscent of similar grand terminals in Europe, Quebec City's train station attracts ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/08/quintessential-quebec/ A bartender at Quebec City's fashionable L'EChaude restaurant expresses mock indignation when a visitor asks how Quebec's capital compares with the province's largest city, Montreal. 'They are not truly French,' the bartender says, conveniently overlooking the fact that as a Canadian, neither is he. 'In Montreal, people speak French 50, ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/08/france-without-the-jetlag-pre-and-post-cruise-vacations-in-montreal-quebec-and-saguenay/ I had traveled the world before traveling to Quebec, and if my foot could reach my behind, I would kick myself for doing so. Of all the places I have visited, Quebec surely ranks in my top ten. The irony is that I traveled halfway around the world to visit ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/08/finding-contentment-in-quebec/ YOU’VE GOT TO LIKE A TOWN WHOSE FIRST KNOWN EUROPEAN SETTLER WAS A PIRATE. Especially one who interrupted his illicit adventures to fight the heroically for the United States in the War of 1812. That’s just what French privateer and smuggler Jean Lafitte did before returning to his old ways and setting up ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/genteel-galveston-gateway-to-the-gulf-of-mexico-beyond/ Galveston’s downtown is compact by big-city standards, more than 36 square blocks. But within those blocks is more than 100 shops, antique stores, restaurants and art galleries.  Begin your exploration in The Strand National Historic Landmark District (pick up a map and other literature at the Downtown Visitors Center at 2215 ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/galveston-block-by-block/ During the 1920s through the 1940s, Sam Maceo’s famous Galveston nightclubs, the Balinese Room and the Hollywood Dinner Club, were host to such performers as Phil Harris, Paul Whiteman, Guy Lombardo, Duke Ellington, Freddy Martin, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee and Jimmy Dorsey. Galveston attracted people from all over the nation ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/grand-galveston-dining-diversions/ Q. How do I get from the airport to the port? A. Many cruise passengers who fly to their Galveston cruises arrive at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, 65 miles from Galveston. Closer is the William P. Hobby Airport, about 45 miles away. Yet the journey is about an hour and ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/galveston-frequently-asked-questions/   If there is one city that should be on every avid cruiser’s list of must-see destinations, Venice is it. For starters, Venice is one world’s most unique cities — architecturally, historically and environmentally. Situated on a patchwork of more than 100 low-lying islands, Venice is sliced by canals. Thus, visitors ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/grand-adventures-in-venice-italy/   On your own in Venice, you will get lost — no matter how good your map or how finely attuned your sense of direction. But go ahead and lose yourself. That is part of the joy of being in Venice. Just make sure to carry a few Euros (the currency ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/venice-six-districts-step-by-step/ Pre- and post-cruise stays should include not only Venice but also the surrounding region in northeastern Italy known as Veneto. Exceptionally varied, Veneto offers cruise passengers more than 200 excursions — ranging from visits to vineyards, Veneto villas and historic cities to mountain bike adventures and alpine hikes. As wine and ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/beyond-venice-veneto/ Q: How do I get from the ship to St. Mark’s Square? A:  For 5 Euros you can hop on Alilaguna, a public water shuttle (www.alilaguna.it) that connects Marittima Cruise Terminals to St. Mark’s Square in about 15 minutes (operates every 20 minutes). Q: How do I get from the airport to ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/venice-frequently-asked-questions/ From Buenos Aires, Argentina, around Cape Horn to Valparaiso, Chile, or in the reverse direction, “Round Cape Horn” cruises are South America’s most popular itineraries. You’ll typically spend two weeks on board ship, and some ships overnight in the embarkation/disembarkation ports. For a full taste of Buenos Aires or Santiago ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/buenos-aires-santiago-introduction/   In January, I flew to Buenos Aires for a cruise around legendary Cape Horn to Valparaiso, Chile. My schedule was to fly from the United States late one evening, arrive in Buenos Aires the next morning, do a quick city tour on the way to the ship, board and sail ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/buenos-aires-it-takes-two-days-to-tango/ Occupying a narrow swath of South America’s west coast, Chile extends nearly 2,700 miles from its southernmost point at Cape Horn to its northern border with Peru. The majestic Andes and the Pacific Ocean flank the country’s western and eastern borders, with slender Chile squeezed in between — averaging only ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/santiago-gateway-to-chiles-wine-country/ Love cruising? Love cycling? Love sweets? From Rotterdam, I cycled less than 10 miles to Delft, the charming village where I stopped to eat and learn more about Stroopwafels with Wil and Erik Schravendijk. You can rent bikes in Rotterdam near the Central Train Station for around 6.50 euros. You'll ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/in-delft-for-dutch-stroopwafels/ [caption id="attachment_202" align="aligncenter" width="480" caption="Lion Pavillion"][/caption] Long known as the gateway to the mysteries and the abundant riches of the Orient, Hong Kong is one of those special places that lives up to its reputation for dramatic and romantic images. My travels there have always made me enjoy a small fantasy ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/07/city-of-contrasts-hong-kong/ European cruises are like exquisite appetizers. Your ship gives you a taste of the delicious culture capitals, allowing you to decide which cities and countries are most intriguing and appealing. Each stop on the cruise ship’s itinerary is designed to provide convenient access to the primary attractions, but the cruise ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/extend-your-cruise-in-europe/ Venice is one of those very special destinations where you can’t go wrong. No matter how much or how little time you have and wherever you choose to go, you’ll find it fascinating. A vaporetto ride up the Grand Canal is absolutely required. The Venetian canals must not be missed, ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/venice-italy-overview/ A large city offering travelers and visitors many events, attractions and activities, Sweden’s capital is a friendly, attractive place built on 14 islands. Most popular of those islands and receiving more than 10 million visitors each year, Djurgården (translated as Game Park) is an island park right in the middle of ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/stockholm-sweden-overview/ If all roads lead to Rome, then prepare for a wealth of options. Consider the Rome of Augustus and Caesar, filled with ancient structures that are still spectacular. Or Michelangelo and Da Vinci, whose work makes this city an artistic pilgrimage. Explore the seven hills, stop for an espresso by ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/rome-italy-overview/   One of the world’s most magical places, where the beaches meet the Alps and modern glamour mingles between French medieval villages, Monte Carlo is the place to enjoy stunning natural scenery and world-class culture. Of course, you can do your best James Bond at the Casino of Monte-Carlo Casino, or if ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/monte-carlo-monaco-overview/ Set along the banks of the Thames, London is Europe's largest city, boasting more than 7 million inhabitants and deserving of at least several days of exploration. Its oldest section, where the Romans first garrisoned, is now its business and financial center, referred to as the City, or the Square Mile ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/london-england-overview/ A picturesque port city, Lisbon frequently shows up on lists of favorite cities to visit, and it’s easy to understand why. It's small yet immensely charming, characterized by romantic cobblestone streets, mosaic sidewalks, rolling hills and pastel houses. It's also a diverse city, blending the several cultures that collected here ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/lisbon-portugal-overview/   A beautiful and eminently livable city, Scandinavia’s largest city was originally a fishing village that evolved into a major port of trade and is now a jewel of Northern Europe. Despite massive 18th century fires, Copenhagen retains its charming medieval layout with plenty of Old World appeal, even as it modernizes. There ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/copenhagen-denmark-overview/ As the capital of Catalonia and one of Europe’s most captivating cities, Barcelona is a wonderful city to explore on foot, strolling La Rambla through the outdoor markets and the brilliant flowers. Barcelona is home to the ambitious architecture of Antonio Gaudi, whose stunning and fantastic buildings are scattered all around ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/barcelona-spain/   When cruise ships call on Athens, most travelers scramble up the Acropolis, and even if there were no Parthenon, the trip to the Acropolis is worthwhile for the commanding view of Athens and the temples below. Athens is one of the safest capital cities in the world, so with common sense ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/athens-greece-overview/   A fairly small city, Amsterdam is packed with treasures for travelers. The city’s signature feature – perhaps most beautiful, too – is the network of canals through and around the city. A canal cruise is a must, whether in an open-top canal boat or a self-pedaled "canal bike,” so that you ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/amsterdam-overview/ When In Lisbon - Lapa of Luxury, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. When embarking or disembarking your ship in Lisbon, Portugal, head up the hill away from the cruise ship docks into Lisbon's most elegant suburb, the Lapa Quarter. There, you'll find the Lapa Palace, a 19th-century Portuguese palace that was ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/when-in-lisbon-lapa-of-luxury/ Before setting out to pedal around Copenhagen, my first challenge was to obtain the proper bike to straddle. I found it at Kobenhavns Cykler, located at the Copenhagen Central rail station (on the right side if you're facing the station). I even found a convenient way to get to the city ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/cycling-copenhagen/ The way to Taormina, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. Situated in the shadow of Europe's highest active volcano, Taormina's charms erupt on its oft-shuffled streets and serpentine alleys. Cruise passengers need do nothing more than stroll to absorb the ambience of this delightful town, venturing now and then on its serendipitous ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/strolling-sicilian-style-in-taormina/ View from Royal Penthouse Suite, King George Palace, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. When cruising to or from Athens (or more accurately, the port of Piraeus, about 30 minutes away), you'll no doubt want to spend time perusing such sites as the Parthenon. There are few places better to admire the ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/rooms-with-a-view/ Images of Alhambra, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. From Malaga, motorcoaches make their way to Granada and its famous fortress, Alhambra. Moorish influence lives on here, even though the Muslim monarchs were driven out of their stronghold at the end of the 15th century. The wonderfully intact buildings and grounds mix ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/all-ashore-for-alhambra/ Tunisia Camel, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. You know you're docked in an exotic destination when the transportation that awaits you takes the form of either four wheels or four legs. During a port call Tunis on Azamara Quest, camels were paraded out primarily for show. But for a few euros, ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/trekking-tunisia/ Flamenco in Granada, Spain, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. Enjoy the impassioned style of dance known as Flamenco on shore excursions from Malaga and Cadiz. [flickr album=72157605375124107 num=4] http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/when-in-granada-spain/ Menorca, Spain, from Azamara Quest, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. It's a short walk from the cruise ship terminal up the stairs to the city center of Mahon, the largest city on the Spanish island Minorca. The British ruled the island from 1708 until 1802. The British influence, which lingers to ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/pier-delight-mahon-minorca/ When In Barcelona, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. Stroll into St. Joseph's Market on Las Ramblas. Entering the market, look to your right for Pinotxo Bar and pull up a seat for a cappuccino or a cava and Pinocho's warm hospitality. [flickr album=72157605373044543 num=7] http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/06/when-in-barcelona/ Transferring From Shore To Ship In Athens, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. Want a cheap way to transfer from Athens International Airport to your hotel in the city center or your ship in Piraeus? Stop by the Athens Public Transportation kiosk in the baggage claim area in the arrivals terminal. The ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/transferring-from-shore-to-ship-in-athens/ Athens Airport To City Center, originally uploaded by Ralph Grizzle. From Athens International Airport arrivals hall, follow the signs for trains to reach the Metro station. Purchase a ticket at the Metro counter. Cost per person: 6 euros. Don't forget to stamp your ticket before boarding. Stamping validates the ticket. Without validating, you ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/athens-airport-to-city-center/ Finding Bliss in the Baltic SOMEWHERE IN THE BALTIC SEA, July 1 — It is near midnight, or at least that it is what my watch tells me. The sun and sky suggest otherwise. The bright orange orb hovers over the watery horizon, casting a reddish-yellow glow on a cloudless sky. My ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/cruising-white-nights/ CHANCES ARE YOU MAY NEVER HAVE HEARD OF KLAIPEDA. That's because Lithuania's oldest city was closed to tourists until Soviet occupation ended in 1990. Since then, Klaipeda has been quickly modernizing -- all while keeping its heritage and beauty intact. Klaipeda is an up-and-coming, quaint and charming seaside city that presents ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/cruising-the-baltics-amber-coast/ September 2003 - Michael, the bartender at the trendy Copenhagen cafe Dan Turrell's, had no qualms about telling me where to go. See, I had explained to Michael how as editor of a cruise magazine, I had come to Copenhagen to explore the shoreside attractions and activities that cruise passengers ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/reporters-notebook-congenial-copenhagen-city-of-cycles/ Copenhagen's hub of activity and the main shopping area is situated at and around Europe's longest pedestrian street, called Strøget. The entrance to Strøget is approximately 30 minutes walk from the Langelinie Pier and one hour walk from the Freeport. Strøget runs from Kongens Nytorv square to Radhuspladsen (Town Hall Square), ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/copenhagen-shopping/ If you are staying in Copenhagen before or after your cruise, your hotel will likely include breakfast, so you will be off to a good start. For lunch or dinner, you can hardly go wrong. Here are my favorites. Best Lunch And Museum Combination If you're visiting either the Karen Blixen Museum ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/copenhagen-dining/ Copenhagen is on the island of Sealand. The attractions below are also on Sealand and easily reached from Copenhagen. None, in fact, are more than an hour away by train. Your Copenhagen Card will give you free train or bus transportation and free or discounted admission to most of these ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/day-trips-from-copenhagen/ Copenhagen is ideally suited for getting around on foot or by bicycle. Cruise passengers arrive at one of three places in Copenhagen: the airport; or for those arriving by sea, Langelinie Pier or Freeport Terminal. No matter where you arrive, you will soon see at least some of Copenhagen's 2,500 free ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/walking-and-cycling-in-copenhagen/ A few key points that you should keep in mind if you are cruising to or from Copenhagen: Most cruise passengers arrive in Copenhagen at one of three places: Copenhagen Airport (Copenhagen serves as the initial port of departure for many cruises); or for those arriving by sea, Langelinie Pier ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/05/copenhagen-frequently-asked-questions/ On a Mexican Riviera cruise from San Diego, my family and I spent one week after our cruise to discover all that this sunny Southern California city has to offer cruise passengers. True, most cruise passengers add only two nights before or after their cruises from San Diego, but friends ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/sensational-san-diego-cruise-stay-a-few-days/ For families, there is no better cruise port than San Diego. Only a few minutes from the cruise terminal is Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park. Encompassing 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is second only to the Smithsonian in size and is often referred to as the “Smithsonian of ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/san-diego-perfect-port-for-families/ For pre- and post-cruise vacationers, San Diego offers a variety of day trips, all within San Diego County. The seaside resort of La Jolla is only 15 minutes north of the city center. Borrego Springs, a tiny desert town that is home to the largest state park in the contiguous ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/day-trips-from-san-diego/ San Diego’s biggest attraction is the harbor itself, known as The Big Bay. You could design a pre- and post-cruise vacation around the Big Bay itself and have a perfectly satisfying experience — with no need to rent a car. If you’re staying a few days or more, you’ll have ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/a-day-in-the-big-bay/ We were on a quest. Not to see and experience all of the wonderful attractions that were the reasons I chose to bring my family to San Diego for the kids' spring break vacation. No, the Grizzles and the Grizzlettes had something much more important in mind. We were on ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/rolling-through-san-diego/ In the past several years, San Diego’s cruise ship calls and passenger counts have more than tripled, making the Southern California city the West Coast’s fastest-growing cruise port. Why the surge in popularity? First, San Diego is possibly the West Coast port with the most varied cruise itineraries. More than ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/port-of-san-diego-soars/ Q. How do I get from the airport to the cruise terminal? A. Cruise lines typically provide transfers from the airport to the B Street Cruise Ship Terminal, located at 1140 North Harbor Drive in downtown San Diego. By taxi, it takes only about five minutes to get from the airport ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/san-diego-port-faq/ If you’re planning a cruise in the Baltic Sea, you’re likely old enough to remember such events as the Cuban Missile Crisis (1962), U.S. President Ronald Reagan and congressional conservatives characterizing Russia as the Evil Empire (1982) and the Cold War, which lasted until late 1991. Thus, visiting St. Petersburg ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/48-hours-in-st-petersburg-what-to-do-when-your-ship-arrives/ Peterhof, a magnificent 18th century European palace and gardens, features more than 150 fountains and four cascades. Head to the suburbs of sprawling St. Petersburg to visit the region’s impressive palaces and parks. From the cruise terminal, you can get to Peterhof, a magnificent 18th-century European palace and gardens (inspired ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/palaces-parks-excursions-outside-st-petersburg/ Like any big city, St. Petersburg has some seedy sides, but you’ll steer well clear of those as you set out to see the main attractions. Even so, before disembarking your ship, you may be warned to watch out for pickpockets and petty thieves. Tourist guide Dmitry Ruchkin told The ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/is-st-petersburg-safe/ The first thing you need to know about visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, is that you will need a visa. That’s right, the tedious and time-consuming paperwork for obtaining a visa must be completed — but not necessarily by you. That’s because Russian visas come with several caveats. The one you ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/st-petersburg-port-guide-the-baltic-sea-gem/ Q. I am visiting St. Petersburg on a cruise ship. Do I need a visa? A. Yes. Nearly 70 percent of all tourists to St. Petersburg arrive by ship, and they all need visas. See pages 14 and 15. Q. Can I sightsee on my own? A. Yes, but only if you have ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/st-petersburg-frequently-asked-questions/ I wanted a cruise destination where I could take my kids, a place that offered family activities and family fun, a place that they would remember in later years and want to return to. I wanted an active, nature-oriented experience for them, with a touch of culture and history thrown ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/bay-of-fundy/ Start planning your Bay of Fundy getaway now by checking off the activities and attractions that appeal most to you. St. Martins & The Bay of Fundy – Perched on the shores of the Bay of Fundy, the picturesque fishing village of St. Martins is home to a quaint harbour, ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/vacation-planner-bay-of-fundy%e2%80%99s-top-10-shore-excursions/ Twice a day, the world’s most turbulent tides rise and fall,transporting more than 100 billion tons of water in and out of the bay. The tidal surges leave the stunningly beautiful Hopewell Rocks high and dry — then, hours later, immerse their huge trunks under water. At low tide, walk ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/bay-of-fundy-new-shore-excursion/ Cruise Saint John www.cruisesaintjohn.com Saint John, New Brunswick www.tourismsaintjohn.com Tourism New Brunswick www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/cruise-planning-resources/ Reversing Falls – The Reversing Falls is a unique phenomenon caused by the tremendous tide in the Bay of Fundy — the highest tides in the world. This is where the force of the Bay of Fundy tides push on the St. John River as they rise and cause the ... http://portprofiles.com/wordpress/2008/04/vacation-planner-top-10-things-to-see-do-in-saint-john/