Having been on the Ventura we said we would never go with P & O again. However, with a chance of the Golden Triangle thrown in, we decided to give it another go.
What a great trip. The Arcadia does lack the wow factor and could do with some sparkle , renewal of sanitary ware, a lick of paint. The theatre has too many pillars spoiling the view of the stage. On the plus side, the bed was comfortable, the water constantly hot, the cabin clean, tea and coffee. The food was very good, the staff friendly, helpful, smiling and very hard working. Margaret Gilmore, Brian Conley, Shaun Wallace, Maurice Grumbleweed, singers, dancers etc, very good.
We only took one trip and did the rest ourselves. The port talks covered self guiding.
Lots of wardrobe space. Comfortable bed. Balcony needed some varnish. Clean. Good shower. However, could do with some modernisation and redecorating. Floor tiles and sink chipped.
Joined the ship he so didn't see too much.
Walked the Corniche and then went to Emirates Hotel.
The Suez Canal.....enough said
Got a bus to Knossos. Free to get in! Great weather. Bus back to Heraklion and museum. Free to get in! Very good museum. Walked to castle. Free to get in!!!!!
Taxi in to Athens and the driver acted as a guide. Drove us to all the highlights. Lots of free time. Nice and early at Acropolis, before crowds.
Never fancied Malta but have changed our minds having spent the day in Valletta, walking all round. The Villa was a bit of a letdown but the Cathedral was awesome. The city was clean, easy to walk round, the ramparts, gardens etc.
Taxi to Sintra and Pena Castle, not to be missed. Had to be seen to be believed. Fantasy land. As much time as we wanted, then on to caissci( wrong spelling!!!), a wander round. On to Belem where we had time for photos of main sites. Finally to Lisbon for an hour or so and custard tart!!!