ToA ZEN M AGA ZI NE ISSUE NO. 1 - Variety Cruises
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A Z EN to
YO U R WA Y I N T O T H E WO R L D ’ S S E C R E T T R E A S U R E S
M AG A Z I N E I S S U E N O. 1
Contents A TO ZEN
1 Welcome Connoisseurs of the Seas 2 OUR PHILOSOPHY
3 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS AT SEA 4 Contributors
6 THE VARIETY FOUNDATION 7 OUR PROJECTS
8 World Map 10 EGYPT, JORDAN & ISRAEL.
11 BALI & INDONESIA 12 GREECE
20 INTERVIEW APIVITA EXPERIENCE STORE 22 CUBA
26 Photo Competition 28 COSTA RICA & PANAMA
32 CAPE VERDE 36 Iceland
40 SPAIN & PORTUGAL 44 WEST AFRICA
48 Manifesto 50 SEYCHELLES
54 ADRIATIC SEA 60 THE VARIETY CLUB
64 Your Stories 66 MEET THE TEAM
68 OUR TOUR LEADERS 70 Our Fleet
72 AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
Dear Connoisseurs of the Seas
2018 marks our 50th Anniversary-at-Sea and we could not be more honored to be sharing
this milestone Celebration with YOU: Our family at Sea. We are deeply humbled by our guests
vote of trust -since 1949- in serving you the world & it’s offerings on a silver platter through
our carefully curated small ship cruise experiences. Whether you are a
Guest, Citizen, Explorer or Legend of the Seas you undeni-
ably represent the inner circle that reflects the soul of
Variety Cruises… au- E A R S AT thentic, destination-driv-
50
Y SE
en, life-enriching 5 0 A yacht cruise experiences.
Whether a col- or, a scent, a sound, or a
feeling… AtoZen is an eclectic, carefully
curated secret treasure collection of
all that is beau- tiful, awe inspiring,
educational, soothing, unique, fun,
and enriching in one way or another. It
is not a publica- VARIETY CRUISES tion; it is neither a blog
nor a member- ship guide: it is a state of
mind; it is a way S
of life.
M ES
AL
U IS
L SH
As you flip through IP CR the pages of our environ-
mentally conscious, recyclable “orchestra” of art,
travel, gastronomy, festivals, interviews, articles, and heritage
-printed in our homeland Greece- allow your mind to roam freely… without
borders; without limitations. Imagine the possibilities envisioning the world as a blank canvas,
and the Sea as its limitless pathway, embracing our Sails as your Wings.
Stay tuned…
Lakis Venetopoulos
1
50 Years
-
OUR HOME AT SEA
OUR
PHILO
SOPHY
is that since oceans cover over
71% of our Earth, the world at large re-
mains undiscovered until it is exploredat Sea. Variety Cruises World
reveals the planet’s wonders one day at a time, offering unique 360°
views wherever our anchors
drop… The best is yet to come.”
2
1949
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
OF SMALL SHIP CRUISES
19
The journey begins…
Diogenis Venetopoulos launches Zeus Tours
Company.
68
Zeus Tours is renamed Zeus
Tours & Yacht Cruises, intro-
ducing the weekly scheduled
cruise concept.
1996
Zeus Tours operates the first ever non-Greek cruise,
embarking in the Seychelles on the M/S Galileo.
2005 Variety Cruises is founded.
Zeus Tours & Yacht Cruises and Hellas Yachts
merge, operating now 5 fully owned vessels.
20
12
Variety Cruises is awarded by
the readers of USA Today as the
best Boutique Cruise Line.
2018 Variety Cruises celebrates 50 Years at Sea.
3
Contributors
4
A to ZEN No 1
YOUR WAY INTO THE WO R LD’ S
SECRET TREASURES
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
& CREATIVE DIRECTOR
—
Alkistis Ven
SENIOR EDITOR
—
Malvina Vonta
PROJECT MANAGER
—
Tina Andosoglou
WR I T E R S
—
Constantine Venetopoulos
SPECIAL THANKS
—
Semina Sarantopoulou
Andromachi Deligianni
Apivita Experience Store
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
—
Semina Sarantopoulou
ART & DESIGN TEAM
—
Maria Athanasiou
PUBLISHING
—
Variety Cruises House
GET INVOLVED
—
AtoZen@varietycruises.com
5
T he Variety Foundation
TO TRAVEL IS TO IMMERSE YOURSELF…
WHO WE ARE WHAT WE DO
Getting involved with local communities has been In Greece we sponsor local artisans and artists
a key component of our mission, from the found- who have profound cultural impact. In the Sey-
ing of Variety Cruises in 1949 by Diogenis Vene- chelles, we provide support for the local education
topoulos. Since our inception, we have come a system, which the local government recognized us
long way – introducing new vessels, developing for in 2013. Variety also supports the work of and
unique itineraries, and exploring the globe one donates to a variety of organizations, such as the
shore at a time. Now, as we further our mission, Archbishop Makarios Scholarship Fund and the
we want to go beyond simply visiting destina- Trevor Project, the leading suicide prevention line
tions. We want to immerse Variety Cruises and for LGBTQ youth in the US and beyond. In 2010,
our guests geographically, culturally, environmen- upon the start of our cruise to West Africa in
tally, and emotionally in the destinations we visit. Gambia’s village of Lamin Koto, we recognized the
Through the work of The Variety Foundation we lack of educational infrastructure, prompting us to
have supported local projects and organizations, build a school from scratch. A functioning school
in order to better the lives of communities we vis- now exists that proudly serves over 100 children.
it and further the experiences of our guests. As In order to further enrich the lives of residents in
Variety Cruises’ philanthropic work deepens, we Lamin Koto and Gambia, we also started the Kun-
recognize the need to build further infrastructure taur Film Festival. With children at the forefront of
and support for the work we do in local communi- the festival experience, we focus on sharing edu-
ties through the Variety Foundation. All proceeds cational and classical films from all over the globe
from our efforts as part of the foundation will be to expose residents to new cultures and broaden
used to further our mission to further enrich lo- their opportunities.
cal communities, through cultural and educational
initiatives. Variety Gets Involved is a story just be-
ginning, and we look forward to you joining us in
our exciting, lifelong adventure.
6
Projects
GREECE
ALMA ZOIS
LEMOS FOUNDATION
SOS CHILDRENS VILLAGES
THE SMILE OF THE CHILD
SEYCHELLES
ARCHBISHOP MAKARIOS SCHOLARSHIP FUND
USA
THE TREVOR PROJECT
FOUNDATION FOR PRADER-WILLI RESEARCH
AUSTRALIA
FLINDERS MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
OPERA AUSTRALIA
7
S E A OU R WOR L D
WE DON’T GET YOU CLOSER.
WE GET YOU THERE.
IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES
—
Imagine private beaches only accessible by sea.
Imagine an impeccable crew delivering warm ,
friendly and professional service. Imagine a secure
and private environment. You have arrived: Variety
Cruises. Variety Cruises will combine amazing desti-
nations, the yacht suitable to your liking, professional
crew and exquisite cuisine always with a local flavor.
The perfect ingredients to the ultimate yacht cruise
experience. All our mega yachts and small ships offer
Ocean View cabins and 3600 unobstructed views of CU BA
the wonders of nature and splendors of the desti-
nations visited. While deployed in the most unique
destinations worldwide including the Mediterranean, PA N A M A
the Adriatic, Cuba, Costa Rica & Panama, West Africa
and Iceland and more, the sky is the limit and our COSTA
vessels are the ultimate floating homes. RICA
Our 34 to 72 passenger fully owned vessels are per-
fect for affinity groups, family reunion groups. With
a history of collaborations including numerous pres-
tigious organizations such as National Geographic,
Mercedes Group, the Olympic Games and more our
vast experience in customizing and tailor made travel
is your yacht charter guarantee.
You have arrived.
50
Years Small
69
Years in
90
Ports of call
15
Exclusive
15
Voyages
1:2
crew-guest
19
Countries
8
Boutique
Ship Cruising Tourism Ports of Call ratio Yachts
8ICELA ND
C R OA T I A
MON TE N EGRO
A L BA N I A
PORT UGA L S PA I N
GREECE
J O R DA N
EGY PT
ISRAEL
SE N EGA L
CAPE
V ERDE T H E GA M BI A
SE YCH E L L E S
BA L I
27
UNESCO
8
Uninhabited
3
Renowned
98%
Guest
30%
Repeat
300
cruise
100
seasoned
10
International
World Heri- Islands Canals Experience: guests experts local guides Awards &
tage Sites “Excellent” Accolades
9Egypt
JORDAN & ISRAEL
Discover timeless paths in Egypt,
time travel in Luxor, often called the world’s
greatest open-air museum and witness unseen
views.
JORDAN
ISRAEL
IS E
a t a gl a nc e
YO U R C R U
EGYPT
Harmony V
bins
oceanview ca
49 guests in 25
a,
, Israel to Aqab
From Ashdod
rs e
Jordan or reve
ypt to Aqaba,
From Suez, Eg
rse
Jordan or reve
ts
8 days / 7 nigh
arch 2019
ber 2018 to M
From Decem
port charges
/ €1.8 00 plus
From $2,190
10Bali D ISCOVE R BALI & IND O NE SIA
O UR NE W D E ST INAT IO N
4 RE A S O N S TO V I SI T BALI
DIAMOND DRAGON PINK BEACH COFFEE
Bali, the famed “island The unique Komodo Pink beach, or Pantai Kopi luwak is the world’s
of the gods” is a tropical dragon can grow up Merah, is one of only most expensive coffee,
diamond-shaped island to 3 meters in length seven such beaches due to its uncommon
that has been described and weighs as much on the whole planet, production method.
as “heaven on earth”, as 150 kg. and is said to be the best It has been produced
and was discovered spot for swimming from the coffee beans
by Dutch sailors in the and snorkeling which have been
early 1600’s. in Komodo. digested by a certain
Indonesian cat-like
animal called civet cat!
a t a gl a nc
YO U R
CRUI
SE
Panor
ama II e
49 gu
es t s in 2
5 o ce a
nview
cabins
From
B enoa,
Bali
8 days
/ 7 nig
ht s
From
Ju n e to
O c to b
er 201
9
From
$2,35
0 / € 1.9
50 plu
s por t
c h a r ge
s
11Greece A Tim el ess Discovery
The sunniest country in Europe, Greece is also the
birthplace to the Olympics. Athens, the capital is one of
the oldest cities in the world and has over 100 archae-
ological museums.
ATHENS
The capital and largest city in Greece, a bustling and cosmo- GYTHION
politan metropolis is one of the world’s oldest cities, its re- Two life-size statues on the quayside - one of a jaunty-tailed
corded history spans at least 3,000 years. Classical Athens mermaid and one of a sailor in baggy trousers shading his
was a powerful city-state. The heritage of the classical era is eyes and gazing out to sea are the first things you’ll spot as
still evident in the city, represented by a number of ancient your ship noses its way into the harbor at Gythion. Gythion
monuments and works of art, the most famous of all, the Par- looks like a quintessential Greek island of the 1970’s, except
thenon on the Acropolis. Visits of Constitution Square, to that it is a small seaside town on the Mani Peninsula, which
the Panathinean Stadium, where the first modern Olympics lies in the Southern Peloponnese and is the gateway to
took place, and a walking discovery of the quaint Plaka dis- Sparta, the ancient Byzantine city of Mystras and the region
trict, located around the Acropolis hill, are a must. of Laconia.
THE CORINTH CANAL HYDRA ISLAND VARIETY CRUISES EXCLUSIVE PORT
The Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth and the Sa- Hydra Island, one of the most unspoiled and interesting of
ronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. The 6 km long canal was built the Greek islands, is a small rocky island in the Argosaronic
between 1881 and 1893. The modern attempt at construc- Gulf, south east out of the Athens port of Piraeus and within
tion began in the 1870s following the successful opening sight of the southern Peloponnese mainland. It’s very cos-
of the Suez Canal. The Corinth Canal is considered a great mopolitan, safe and one of the easiest of the Greek islands
technical achievement for its time. It saves the 700-kilometre to access. Best of all, the entire island is a preserved nation-
(430 mi) journey around the Peloponnesus for smaller ships. al monument and has retained all its 17th & 18th century
charm and quaintness.
DELOS ISLAND
The Island of Delos lies just off Mykonos. This 5,000 years IOS ISLAND
old settlement is one of the largest outdoor museums of the Ios is a hilly island with cliffs and beautiful beaches. Ios was
world, inscribed by UNESCO on the World Heritage List. In the setting of movies such as “Ginger and Cinnamon” or “Big
1872 the French Archaeological School started with system- Blue” partly shot in Manganari, one of the most beautiful
atic excavations in Delos, which still continue today together beaches in Greece. The bustling city of Ios is located at Or-
with the Greek Archaeological School. The Delos Museum is mos harbor in the northwest and from there a street road
not to be missed with its magnificent sculptures, mosaics and takes you to Chora, a very picturesque Cycladic village only
clay vases dating from prehistoric period up to Roman times. accessible to pedestrian and the center of nightlife in Ios.
EPIDAURUS ITEA
Epidaurus or Epidavros in modern Greek, was a small city in Itea is a small bathing resort and port at the end of a bay
ancient Greece and was the birthplace of Apollo’s son As- not too far from the ancient port of Delphi, once a very busy
clepius, the healer. Epidaurus was known for the Asclipion port. Today, it is a laid back community living mainly from
the most celebrated healing center of the Classical world. agriculture, fishing and tourism. The hills leading to Araho-
There are mineral springs in the vicinity which may have been va and Delphi are covered with olive trees belonging to the
used in healing. Nearby, the Epidavros Theatre, known for its sanctuary of Apollo in ancient times.
symmetry and almost perfect acoustics, seats 15,000 people.
KATAKOLON/OLYMPIA
FOLEGANDROS ISLAND Katakolon is a seaside town in western Ilia in the municipality
VARIETY CRUISES EXCLUSIVE PORT of Pyrgos and the gateway to Olympia, where the ancient
Folegandros is one of those tiny, quaint Greek islands where Greeks flocked every four years for more than a millennium
time seems to have stopped. It is the best example of a typ- to celebrate the sacred games dedicated to Zeus. Visit the
ical Greek island, with clear waters, white houses and little ruins of the Sanctuary, with its athletic quadrangles, stadium,
winding streets up in the Chora Village. temples and treasuries; then browse in the modern Archae-
ological Museum, a treasure house of Archaic, Classical and
Roman sculptures, including the famous Niki Winged Victory.
12T H E BASIC S
Population 10.750.000
Language Greek
Currency Euro
Tipping Tipping is not obligatory, but if you are satisfied with
the service, such tips can be left on the table, or you
may tell the server that you don’t expect to be given
O
O RDIN any change.
C AT
ES
39.0742° N
,
21
243 ° E .8
F RO M G RE EC E WIT H LOVE
TA K E ME WIT H YO U…
Olive oil is one of Greece’s biggest exports and in abundance,
so do not forget to stock up.
Ouzo, the famous alcoholic drink that tastes of liquorish.
Did you know?
The sweet Loukoumi Syrou
• Greek has been spoken for more than 3,000 years,
making it one of the oldest languages in Europe.
• Greece enjoys more than 250 days of sunshine—or
3,000 sunny hours—a year
• The first Olympic Games took place in 776 B.C.
• The first Olympic champion was a Greek cook
named Coroebus who won the sprint race.
• The word “music” comes from the Muses, god-
desses of the arts in Greek mythology.
LI KE A LO C AL
CHANGING OF THE GUARD AT THE TOMB OF THE
UNKNOWN SOLDIER – Every Sunday at 11am, the
changing of the guard is quite possibly the best show in
town. The Evzones (guards) go about the change with
high kicks and fists to foreheads with such determina-
tion that it has to be seen to be believed.
13KEA ISLAND VARIETY CRUISES EXCLUSIVE PORT and Tsipidos, situated on an open plain on the eastern side
The island lies opposite Attica, with Makronissos interposed of the island occupy the site of an ancient town. They are
between them. Kea is a mountainous island, with small val- known together as the “villages of Kephalos” after the steep
leys and little sandy bays. The island’s capital Ioulis is built and lofty hill of Kephalos.
on the site of another ancient city, but there are nearly no
remains except of the famous Lion of Kea with its Archaic POLIEGOS ISLAND VARIETY CRUISES EXCLUSIVE PORT
Smile to be found at the edge of the Chora. An uninhabited Greek island in the Cyclades near Milos and
Kimolos. Its name means “many goats”, since it is inhabited
KYTHIRA ISLAND VARIETY CRUISES EXCLUSIVE PORT only by goats. There are two mounts, Stroggylo which rises
Kythira is an island of Greece, historically part of the Ionian to 330 metres (1,083 ft) and Psilo Vouno (370 metres (1,214
Islands. It lies opposite the eastern tip of the Peloponnesos ft)). Its goat population maintains Poliegos as a barren island.
peninsula. In Ancient Greek Mythology, Kythira was consid- It has some magnificent beaches, as well as many sea-surface
ered to be the island of celestial Aphrodite, the Goddess of caves, which serve as a refuge to a dwindling population of
love. Since ancient times, until the mid-19th century, Kithyra Mediterranean monk seals (Monachus monachus).
had been a crossroads of merchants, sailors, and conquerors.
As such, it has had a long and varied history and has been in- POROS ISLAND
fluenced by many civilizations and cultures. This is reflected This small island lies in close proximity to the Peloponnesian
in its architecture (a blend of traditional, Aegean and Venetian coast, separated by a narrow channel from mainland. The
elements), as well as the traditions and customs, influenced scenic port and the adjacent hills are filled with picturesque
by centuries of coexistence of the Greek, Venetian, Ottoman and aristocratic mansions, shops and restaurants very busy
and British civilizations as well as its numerous visitors. during summer.
KYTHNOS ISLAND VARIETY CRUISES EXCLUSIVE PORT PYLOS
Kythnos is part of the Western Cyclades and is considered as Pylos, once known under its Italian name – Navarino - is a
an unspoiled island, with very friendly locals. Life is quiet and large bay and a town on the west coast of the Peloponnese,
slow, an ideal location for relaxing, swimming on its sandy in Southern Greece. The bay of Pylos was the site of two
beaches and enjoying traditional simple food. Its major at- naval battles, the Battle of Pylos in 425 BC and the Battle of
traction is a fairly well known healing thermal spa, attracting Navarino, in 1827, during the Greek War of Independence.
many Greeks and foreign visitors, as well as the remarkable Pylos is famous for Nestor’s Palace, the museum in Chora,
and unspoilt Kolones beach. the Dinari Lagoon, a must see place for bird watching lovers.
MONEMVASSIA RETHYMNON
Monemvassia - originally called Malvasia by the Frank Tem- Rethymnon, one of Crete’s largest cities, displays a blend of
plars - is a fishing and touristic town, located in Eastern Pelo- modernity and of old time charm. The Venetians, who con-
ponnese. It is better known for its Medieval Fortress built on trolled the island for many centuries, made Rithymna a flour-
a rocky islet connected to mainland by a narrow bridge and ishing trading port and built the Fortezza, a fortress which
this is why it is also called the Gibraltar of Eastern Mediter- protected the population for many years. Today, it is again a
ranean. A large settlement, dating from the 6th century A.D., bustling port city. A walking tour in the city’s narrow streets
but it is in the15th century that Venetians built the amazing will allow you to discover remains of Venetians and Ottoman
fortress which is largely intact today. The streets are narrow architecture.
and exclusively reserved to pedestrians.
SANTORINI ISLAND
MYKONOS ISLAND Santorini is today what remained after an enormous volcanic
Without a doubt, Mykonos is one of the most famous and explosion which occurred some 3,600 years ago at the height
picturesque Islands in the Mediterranean and a jet set spot, of the Minoan civilization destroying the earliest settlements
known for its nightlife, whitewashed landscapes and beauti- on what was formerly a single island, and leading to
ful sandy beaches. A walking tour of Chora must include vis- the creation of the current geological Caldera. Its spectacular
its to the windmills, to the Paraportiani Church, the Maritime natural beauty, along with a dynamic nightlife, have made the
and Cycladic Museums and stops at designers’ shops and island one of Europe’s tourist hotspots.
Little Venice cafes. Make sure you meet “Petros” the Pelican, The capital, Fira as well as Imerovigli and Oia – a must see –
the mascot of Mykonos. cling to the top of the cliff looking down on the lagoon.
NAFPLION SOUNION
Nafplion, located in the Bay of Argolis in Eastern Pelopon- The archaeological site of Sounion is located on a promonto-
nese, is one of the most picturesque cities in Greece. A walk ry, by the sea, 1 hour from Athens. Cape Sounion is noted for
up a promontory above the town leads to a well preserved its two ancient temples on this site, one dedicated to Athena
Castle built in the Middle Age. Visit the old town with its (of which only the foundations remain) and the other, the fa-
seaside cafes and restaurants and narrow streets, filled with mous one, to Poseidon. The ruins bear the deeply engraved
shops. Nafplion is also your starting point for an excursion to name of English Romantic poet Lord Byron (1788 - 1824).
Mycenae and Epidavros.
SYROS ISLAND
PAROS ISLAND Syros has always been a significant port town, and during
Paros Island, located in the Central Aegean Sea, became the 19th century it was even more significant than Piraeus.
known for its fine white marble also called Parian, used to Ermoupoli, the “Queen of the Cyclades”, stands on a naturally
produce China and fine marble pieces worldwide. A must see amphitheatrically site, with neo-classical buildings, old man-
is the bay of Naoussa, a natural harbor, closed by a chain in sions and white houses cascading down to the harbor.
the ancient times. The three villages of Dragoulas, Marmara
14MU S IC A L I N S T RU M E N TS
The bouzouki
B OOK L I S T
Nicholas Gage: Eleni (1983)
F ES TI VA L S
Late June - Miaoulia Festival in Hydra
(naval festival, fireworks)
June/August in Athens & Epidavros Festival
(theatre, opera, music & dance)
July/ August in Ancient Olympia Interna-
tional Festival (theatre, music & dance)
A N I S LA N D I N T H E H E ART O F AT HE NS
In 1841, King Otto I, encouraged workers to come and help transform the new capital of independent Greece into a
modern metropolis and refurbish his palace. Carpenters and masons from the Cycladic island of Anafi came, and
they called it Anafiotika, (“little Anafi”) after their island. The neighborhood was built to resemble the architecture
of the Cyclades islands with stark white-washed cubic houses built of stone, flat roofs and brightly painted shutters
and doors, so you get the feel of being in an island village. Bright magenta bougainvillea spills over their walls and
the narrow alleyways often end in dead end terraces. Some of the houses have roof-top patios with gardens of
potted plants and the occasional shade tree. Anafiotika is a tiny neighborhood in the heart of Athens and under the
northeast side of the Acropolis. It is part of Athens oldest neighborhood Plaka. In the 70’s the greek authorities said
that the houses weren’t legal and decided to demolish a few. Some inhabitants of Anafiotika refused to leave and
nowadays there are 60 buildings left in the area.
15TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WWW.VARIETYCRUISES.COM
PH OTO OP P O RT U N I T Y WO RD S TO RE ME MB E R
Do not forget to take a photo during the famous sunset in Kalimera – Good morning
Santorini or from the famous Monemvasia castle. Kalinihta – Good night
Efharisto – Thank you
Parakalo – You are welcome
F ETA CH EE S E ANC IE NT T RAGE D IE S
Feta, which is made from goat’s milk, is the Greece’s na- The word “tragedy” is Greek for “goat-song” be-
tional cheese. It dates back to the Homeric ages, and the cause early Greek tragedies honored Dionysus, the
average per-capita consumption of feta cheese in Greece god of wine, and the players wore goatskins. Trage-
is the highest in the world. dies were noble stories of gods, kings, and heroes.
Comedy or “revel,” on the other hand, were about
lower-class characters and their antics.
16C L A S S I C AL
Greece
YOUR CRUISE
at a glance
Harmony G
44 guests in 21 oceanview cabins
Fridays from Athens, Greece
8 days / 7 nights
From May to October, 2019
From $2,890 / €2.300 plus port charges
DAY BY DAY
DAY 1 ATHENS-KEA YOUR LAND EXPERIENCE
DAY 2 DELOS-MYKONOS DELOS: Triumph & turmoil, birthplace of gods
Duration: 3-4 hrs
DAY 3 SANTORINI SANTORINI: Island tour, villages, legends
of Atlantis
DAY 4 RETHYMNON CRETE Duration: approx. 4.5 hours
DAY 5 KYTHIRA CRETE/RETHYMNO: Legendary minoans & cre-
tan food secrets
DAY 6 MONEMVASSIA-NAFPLION Duration: approx.6 hours
DAY 7 HYDRA NAUPLION: Agamemnon and the cyclopean walls
Duration: approx. 3 hours
DAY 8 MARINA ZEA
17TAK E M E
TO T H E
JEW E L S O F
Cyclades
YOUR CRUISE
at a glance
Galileo
49 guests in 24 oceanview cabins
Fridays from Athens, Greece
8 days / 7 nights
From April to October, 2019
From $2,590 / €1.900 plus port charges
YOUR LAND EXPERIENCE
SANTORINI: Fira town and
breathtaking Oia. Duration: 4,5 hours
DAY BY DAY
PAROS: The whitewashed villages of Paros
DAY 1 ATHENS-POROS Duration: 4,5 hours
DAY 2 POLI EGOS – FOLEGANDROS
DELOS : The Sacred Island of Antiquity
DAY 3 SANTORINI Duration: 3 hours
DAY 4 ANTIPAROS – PAROS SYROS: The Queen of the Cyclades
Duration: approx. 3 hours
DAY 5 DELOS-MYKONOS
DAY 6 SYROS
CRUISE MENU
DAY 7 KYTHNOS –CAPE SOUNIO
DAY 8 MARINA ZEA- ATHENS UN E SCO GASTRON OM Y SW IM STOP SPIR ITUA L
18TA K E M E
BACK F RO M
A NTIQ U I T Y
TO Byzantium
at a glance
YOUR CRUISE
Galileo
49 guests in 24 oceanview cabins
Friday sailings from Athens, Greece
8 days / 7 nights
March – April & November, 2019
From $1,250 / €1.090 plus port charges
On board Expert Guest Lecturer
YOUR LAND EXPERIENCE
EPIDAURUS & the Ancient Theatre
Duration: 3 hours
NAUPLION: Mycenae
Duration: approx. 4 hours
DAY BY DAY GYTHION: Mani and Diros Cave
Duration :approx. 6 hours
DAY 1 MARINA ZEA
PYLOS: Nestor’s palace
Duration :approx. 3,5 hours
DAY 2 PALAIA EPIDAURUS
ANCIENT OLYMPIA
DAY 3 NAFPLION / MYCENAE-MONEMVASSIA Duration: approx. 8 hours
DAY 4 GYTHION ITEA - DELPHI
Duration: approx. 3,5 hours
DAY 5 PYLOS
DAY 6 KATAKOLON/OLYMPIA CRUISE MENU
DAY 7 ITEA/DELPHI
DAY 8 MARINA ZEA (DISEMBARKATION) UN E SCO GASTRON OM Y ART SPIR IT UA L
19“Interview
”
ANDROMACHI DELIGIANNI
A P I V I TA E X P E R I E N C E S T O R E M A N A G E R
by Semina Sarantopoulou
The APIVITA Experience Store: 5 floors that wake up all 5 On the other side of the floor, The Juicy Bee Bar, the first
senses. What do customers see, smell, hear, taste, touch organic juice bar in Greece, puts into practice Hippocrates’
in each floor? maxim “you are what you eat”. We prepare cold-pressed
juices and smoothies which customers can enjoy either in
The main idea behind The APIVITA Experience Store was the specially designed area or have them to go.
the creation of a location which would incorporate the phi-
losophy and the values of the brand. The bee society, the Finally, the Greek herbs & bee products area brings cus-
philosophy of Hippocrates and the Greek flora are the three tomers and especially foreigners to the core of our philos-
inspirations that drive APIVITA from its birth until this day. ophy. We have created a unique corner – the ultimate stop
The experience of the customer begins the minute they en- in the city center for herbs, tea and all the bee kingdom has
ter our door. We always burn essential oils and fragrance to offer: honey, royal jelly and bee pollen!
the room depending on the season to stimulate different
emotions. The dominating olive tree, made of copper and Going up in the Hippocrates Lecture Hall we host events
designed by Constantinos Valaes, is standing in the middle that are directly aligned with our expertise such as the Aro-
of what we call the “hospitality” table - created by open matherapy and Botanology Academy, face and body treat-
beehives. The 1st floor, the “agora” – which in the antiqui- ment workshops, seminars on the magical world of bees
ty was the educational, philosophical and social hub of the but also “out of the box” events that attract larger crowds
city, is divided in three sections: but remain close to our philosophy: cooking workshops
The protagonist is The Natural Pharmacy, which takes us with Greek herbs, fashion events promoting Greek design-
back to the roots of APIVITA since on a similar apothecary ers, yoga and gyrotonic sessions, life coaching seminars etc.
table, Nikos and Niki Koutsiana created the first products. In the Nature’s Hair Studio on the 3rd floor, customers can
Here, customers can create their own personal cosmetics enjoy unique hair treatments with the use of our renowned
based on their needs. products. A small botanical garden overlooking the city
center and filled with Greek herbs enriches the experience.
The Beehive Spa on the 4th floor is all its name suggests.
Designed to look like an actual beehive, the walls are built
with parts of wooden beehives and the ceiling is decorated
with crystal honey color glass with hidden light to create
the sense of the beehive interior. Offering treatments for
both face and body, customers experience firsthand the ef-
ficiency of the APIVITA products.
The aim of the whole APIVITA Experience Store team is to
offer to each customer a unique experience that will trans-
form them to an APIVITA ambassador.
20What is the story behind the company? It all started in a Hard work, brilliant idea or lucky break? What is the key in-
pharmacy… gredient for successful entrepreneurship?
The story of APIVITA is basically a story about love. The love A combination of the three with a splash of passion! If you
between two people, but mostly their love for the honeybee take a look at all the successful companies around the world,
society, the unique biodiversity of Greek nature and the ho- what characterizes them is also their uniqueness. The fact
listic approach of Hippocrates to health, beauty and well-be- that they managed to offer a product or service that distin-
ing. Nikos and Niki Koutsiana, two young pharmacists, cre- guishes them but that is also true to the philosophy they en-
ated in 1972 their first natural cosmetics using beekeeping treat.
products and herb extracts. A few years later, in 1979, they
created APIVITA. The name derives from the latin words Apis Bearing in mind that the business flourished despite
(bee) and Vita (life), and means “life of the bee” – a name Greece’s financial crisis, would you say that every crisis is
reflecting the philosophy of a company that, being a living an opportunity?
organism like the bee, never stops creating value: Value for Definitely! We moved in Kolonaki to create our first flag-
the society, the natural environment and the economy. ship store in 2012, when everyone else was evacuating the
Today APIVITA has developed and established over 300 nat- particular area. Today, Solonos street has regained its vibe
ural, effective and holistic products that are available in 15 offering a wide range of concept stores. At the same time,
demanding markets: Spain, Japan, Hong Kong, USA, Cyprus, the crisis drove many Greeks back to their birth place where
Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Belgium and the Netherlands, they chose cultivating crops as a main occupation. This has
etc. created a very large variety of suppliers when it comes to raw
materials and also a vast improvement of their quality.
The company’s motto is ‘Natural – Effective – Holistic’. Giv-
en that natural cosmetics have become very popular in re- Share an insight that you gained as Store Manager.
cent years, what’s health and what’s hype? Coming from the advertising industry, I believe that the di-
In the past years and more recently in Greece, the trend of a rect contact with the customer is one of the best and most
healthier way of living has emerged. APIVITA was developed valuable insights. Customer service gives you the opportuni-
and has evolved with the particular motto as its mantra. One ty to see quickly what works or what doesn’t and bring the
of our great challenges is to educate customers on this: customer closer to the brand.
NATURAL
APIVITA cosmetics combine naturally derived active ingredi- Which is the store’s best-selling product?
ents, extracts from plants of the Greek nature, beehive prod- This is a question we get a lot and usually our response is
ucts of high nutritional value, and organic essential oils. rather surprising: our overall approach to beauty. We educate
EFFECTIVE our customers on the steps they need to follow for a holistic
APIVITA’s Research and Development department has a treatment and direct them through the way our products are
proven track record of experience in developing INNOVA- designed. This is what distinguishes APIVITA – the fact that
TIVE natural and effective cosmetics. The ingredients used its philosophy and values can be tracked down to each and
are on the cutting edge of green cosmetology. every product. If we had to choose one product that would
HOLISTIC be Queen Bee. Queen Bee is at the top of the pyramid of our
Inspired by the philosophy of Hippocrates, we address the face care range proposing a holistic approach to anti-ageing,
individual concerns of each customer’s skin in a comprehen- by combining the miraculous effect of fresh Greek royal jelly
sive way. encapsulated in liposomes with an unprecedented 12% of
natural active ingredients!
APIVITA goes global. Do you believe that the firm’s success
abroad lies in the uniqueness of Greek nature?
The biodiversity of Greek nature is one of our main inspira-
tions. We believe that its unique indigenous plants and herbs
of high biological value are an invaluable natural treasure
that should be embraced globally. Greece is certainly famous
for its nature, its ancient civilization, but also a place where
Mediterranean nourishment reaches its finest. A brand that
has managed to combine all that this country has to offer can
only succeed.
21
www.apivita.comCuba A LIVING MUSE UM
From forgotten streets and ancient marine secrets to
UNESCO Heritage Sites, experience time travel through
the Voyages in Cuba.
HAVANA cis Drake and Wales’s Henry Morgan, and other Euro-
One of the most exciting, vibrant cities in the Carib- pean buccaneers. The interior of the island, which is
bean with unprecedented changes continuing apace peppered with palms and pines, and has some shiny
since the withdrawal of Fidel Castro from Cuba’s pol- attractions of its own – the marble mountains.
itics in 2008, also one of the most dynamic. Havana
pulsates with laughter, music, humor and yes, diffi- CASILDA / TRINIDAD
culties. All life’s ingredients coexist in Cuba’s tropical Casilda — also called Puerto Casilda— is the seaport
mix and nowhere more so than in its magnetic capi- of the town of Trinidad, 5 km upland. Trinidad, a riot
tal. The exquisite architecture of Old Havana makes of colonial baroque, a one of a kind, perfectly pre-
it the Americas’ best-preserved colonial center. Tak- served Spanish colonial settlement where the clocks
ing a stroll through shady plazas to the world famous stopped ticking in 1850. Once a Spanish colonial
Malecón with no goal beyond an ice-choked mojito settlement built on huge sugar fortunes and now a
feels like stepping back in time. A UNESCO World Unesco World Heritage site. Colonials from Spain
Heritage site, Habana Vieja is being restored through exploited the land in the valley of the sugar mills us-
a program that feeds tourist revenues into renovation ing hard labor from thousands of slaves — Cuba had
efforts. 493,000 in 1841 — who were transported to the
port in Casilda, ideally located and protected by An-
CIENFUEGOS con peninsula. Slaves were a commodity and arrived
If Cuba has a Paris, this is most definitely it. A love along with furniture, porcelain and building materials
letter to French neoclassicism, full of elegant cupolas from Spain and used to decorate the sugar barons’
and refined columns. “La Ciudad que mas me gusta a palatial homes in Trinidad.
mi” singer Benny More once said about Cuba’s most
architecturally homogenous city. Known as “the Pearl MARIA LA GORDA
of the South” and declared a UNESCO World Heri- María la Gorda, listed as a reserve of the biosphere
tage site in 2005, Cuba’s Gallic heart was the only city by UNESCO, is located on the southern coast of the
in Cuba colonized by the French who brought with western end of Cuba, in the inlet of Corrientes, Gua-
them the ideas of the European Enlightment. nahacabibes Peninsula, Birds like Cartacuba, Tocoro-
ro, Sijú platanero, Zunzuncito, among many others,
LA ISLA DE LA JUVENTUD are to be found in a migration corridor of more than
is a tear-shaped island famous for its shocking-pink 50 species flying from north to south and vice ver-
sunsets, and rich in beauty and pirate tales – if not sa, and stopping in the coastal lagoons and wetlands.
in gold! In the 16th and 17th centuries, its coves and Guanahacabibes also supports 35 species of reptiles,
caves were the sites of battles between the Spanish and is an important habitat for iguanas, majaes and
empire’s convoy ships and privateers such as Sir Fran- other reptiles.
22T H E BASIC S
Population 11.480.000
Language Spanish
Currency uban convertible peso (CUC), Cuban peso aka. Monada National
(MN)
Tipping Tipping in Cuba is important. Since most Cubans earn their mon
ey in monada national leaving a small tip of 1 CUC or more can
make a huge difference!
COORDINA
T
ES
21.5218° N
77 ,
812 ° W .7
F RO M C UBA WIT H LOVE
TA K E ME WIT H YO U…
Cuban Rum - Cigars - CD with original salsa music
Did you know?
• Cuba’s map shape looks like a crocodile & because
it’s rich nature they call it “The green crocodile”
• Bill Clinton favoured Cohiba Romeo and Juliet
cigars.
• Age matters in Cuba for both Rum & cigars. The
older the better!
• Tobacco season starts November & the govern-
ment always provides the seeds to control quality.
• In Cuba when calling someone a mango they
mean beautiful!
• Cuba has a very diversified selection of architec-
tural buildings & influences! You can bump into
buildings from Mexico, West Africa, Greece, Catal-
onia, Spain, Egypt, Germany and others!
TRY ME. . .
Guayabita del Pinar is the tasty Rhum of Pinar del Río.
Guava juice in Havana Club glass. SAVO RE D
Frijoles negros, typical cuban black beans soup. AC T IVIT Y
Pina Colada, always served with cinnamon on top. Baseball
Cuban coffee is a must for coffee lovers.
Daiquiri at La Floridita, in La Havana. A bar Ernest Hemingway frequented.
23TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WWW.VARIETYCRUISES.COM
WO RD S TO RE ME MB E R
Buenas Dias! aka. Good morning!
Buenas Tardes aka. Good afternoon!
LIK E T HE LO C ALS
DIY (do it yourself) state of mind!
Necessity is the mother of invention & the father is Cuban.
W H AT TO WE AR
MY T H
Cuba is hot, humid Once upon a time they used to calculate meeting times
country which, with the size of the cigars!
thankfully, has a Ceiba tree is a sacred tree and if one cuts it he is cursed
casual approach to for life! So if you find a ceiba tree in the middle of nowhere
clothing. you know the farmer seeded it to make sure he will always
24 find his shade!TAK E M E TO
Cuba
YOUR CRUISE
at a glance
Variety Voyager
71 guests in 36 oceanview cabins
Friday sailings from Havana
to Cienfuegos, Cuba or reverse
8 days / 7 nights
From December 2018 – March 2019
Ask for our People to People Regulations
From €1.900 plus Port Charges
DAY BY DAY Panorama
49 guests in 24 oceanview cabins
DAY 1 HAVANA
Sunday and Friday sailings
DAY 2 HAVANA from Havana to Cienfuegos, Cuba or reverse
DAY 3 HAVANA From October to November 2018
DAY 4 MARIA LA GORDA Ask for our People to People Regulations
From €1.900 plus Port Charges
DAY 5 ISLA JUVENTUD
DAY 6 CASILDA/ TRINIDAD YOUR LAND EXPERIENCE
HAVANA: An Introduction to Urban Architecture
DAY 7 CIENFUEGOS Duration: 3,5 hours
DAY 8 CIENFUEGOS OLD HAVANA: Ernest Hemingway & Finca Viglia
HAVANA: The City of Arts
Duration: 2,5 hours
CRUISE MENU MARIA LA GORDA:
Guanahacabibes National Park
Duration: 3,5 hours
JUVENTUD ISLAND & NUEVA GERONA:
U NES CO ART PHOTOGRAPHY SN OR K E L IN G The Island of Youth Duration: 6 hours
TRINIDAD: Museum City of Cuba
Duration: 6 hours
CIENFUEGOS CITY TOUR:
The Pearl of the South Duration: 6 hours
25Photo Competition
HOW TO WIN A FREE CRUISE
1 3
Send us your selected photos
(in high resolution) including
your name and the photo-
graph’s cruise details (date,
ship, destination) to enter
our photo contest. Winners
2TIPS FOR TAKING
THE PERFECT PHOTO
We now invite you to share
your stories with the Variety
Cruises family by sharing your
photographs with us.
will be announced every DE-
1. Rule of thirds - When Send your selected photos at :
CEMBER and our contest’s
shooting landscapes, think photos@varietycruises.com
terms and conditions can be
of the frame as divided in and don’t forget to share on
found on the media section
horizontal thirds and group your social profile with
of www.VarietyCruises.com
elements by thirds instead of #varietycruises.
halves.
2. Let there be light – look
for a light source to highlight
your subject, take your shots
at sunrise or sunset when the
light is at its softest.
3. Details, details, details –
often the littlest of details are
the most interesting, from a
pattern on a leaf to the tex-
ture of food in a local market.
Happy snapping!
Panama
Rica &
hn B.Costa
#2 @Jo
@Bauer Ph
., Jewels
of The Cyc
lades
26@Lesley H. Jewels of The Cyclades @Edita V. Adriatic Odyssey @Arne C. Adriatic Odyssey
#3 @Jim J.Y. Jewels of The Cyclades Winner 2016 @Lawrence B. Costa Rica @Theresa K. Jewels of The Cyclades
& Panama
@Hans Jabs-Gross Aegean Odyssey @Daryl G. Seychelles @Megan B. Adriatic Odyssey
Stories were made to be shared
PHOTOS@VARIETYCRUISES.COM #VARIETYCRUISES
27Costa Rica
& Panama P URA VIDA
From unforgettable Canals to Nature Reserves and
tropical forests, unleash your senses in Costa Rica and
Panama.
PUERTO CALDERA, COSTA RICA DARIEN, PANAMA
Puerto Caldera is the perfect destination for the trav- “One of world’s richest biomes is the 5760-sq-km
eler who loves off-the-beaten-path excursions and off- Parque Nacional Darién, where the primeval meets the
the-map attractions. Plan to be completely immersed present with scenery nearly unaltered from one million
in the native Tico lifestyle during the time spent here. years ago. Even today in the Darién, the Emberá and
Enjoy sightseeing near active volcanoes and Wounaan people maintain many of their traditional
bird-watching in nature reserves. practices and retain generations-old knowledge of the
rainforest. In a stroke of irony, much of the Darién has
QUEPOS, COSTA RICA remained untouched because of its volatile reputation.”
Quepos is a district and the capital of Aguirre canton in
Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica. PEARL ISLANDS, PANAMA
Quepos is the gateway to Manuel Antonio National “Named for the large pearls found in its waters, the
Park. The town is named for the native Quepo Indians Pearl Islands comprise 90 named islands and over 100
who inhabited the place in the colonial era. Quepos is unnamed islets, each surrounded by travel magazine–
well known thanks to being the gateway to a popular worthy, white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.”
National Park and beaches in Costa Rica.
Puerto Jiménez PANAMA CITY, PANAMA
The most cosmopolitan capital in Central America,
PUERTO JIMÉNEZ, COSTA RICA Panama City is both vibrant metropolis and gateway to
Sliced in half by the swampy, overgrown Quebrada tropical escapes. Many worlds coexist here. Welcoming
Cacao, and flanked on one side by the emerald waters both east and west, Panama is a regional hub of trade.
of the Golfo Dulce, the vaguely Wild West outpost of The resulting cultural cocktail forges a refreshing atti-
Puerto Jiménez is shared equally by local residents and tude, more dynamic and fluid than its neighbours.
wildlife. While walking through the dusty streets of
Jiménez (as it’s known to locals), it’s not unusual to spot
scarlet macaws roosting on the soccer field, or white-
faced capuchins traversing the treetops adjacent to the
main street. PANAMA 8
.5
38
GOLFO DULCE, COSTA RICA
0°
Surrounded by Corcovado National Park to the south-
N, 80.782
west, and Costa Rica’s mainland to the northeast, Golfo
Dulce serves up a large platter of entertainment for all
who visit. To the southeast of the gulf is where you will
find two great surfing locales. The palm shaded beaches
1°
of Zancudo and Pavones supply great surfing for any-
W
body looking to hit the waves.
28T H E BASIC S
Population Costa Rica 4.857.000
Population Panama 4.034.000
Language Costa Rica Spanish
Language Panama Spanish
Currency Costa Rica Costa Rican Colon
Currency Panama Panamanian Balboa
Tipping Costa Rica Included
Tipping Panama If you’re happy with
your service, it is standard
to leave a 10% gratuity
COSTA RIC
A
9.
74
89
° N, 83
FRO M CO STA RIC A
.75
34
°
WIT H LOVE
W
TAK E ME WIT H YO U…
Handmade Hammock or a Boruca Mask!
Did you know?
• Costa Rica is one of the most bio-diverse
places on the planet and also known as the
“Rich Coast”.
• Most Costa Ricans have four names.
• Costa Rica is the only country where IVF is
completely banned.
• Costa Rica is the number one in the happy
planet index!
LO C AL HISTO RY
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS Chistopher Columbus discovered
The Carraca Costa Rica in 1502.
LOCAL FAUNA AND FLORA CHARITY OPPORTUNITY
Coiba National Park is home to 760 species of fish, Kids Saving the Rainforest!
3 shark species, and 20 species of whales and dolphins. www.kidssavingtherainforest.org
BOOK LIST SEE & DO
“The path of love” by Osho, “Meditation, The art of ecstasy” by Zip Lining, Scuba Diving, River rafting, Wildlife watching.
Osho
29TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WWW.VARIETYCRUISES.COM
MO RE AB O UT PANAMA
• Panama is the only place in the world where you can see
the sun rise on the Pacific and set on the Atlantic.
• The canal generates fully one-third of Panama’s entire
economy.
• The City of Panama boasts the oldest, longest, continuos-
ly running Municipal Council in the american continent.
• The Panama Hat is really made in Ecuador!
• In Panama, you can swim in the Atlantic Ocean and the
Pacific Ocean in the same day.
• Panama is home to 214 known species of amphibians,
including the country’s national animal, the Panamanian
WOR D S TO RE M E M BE R golden frog.
Hola aka. Hello
Por Favor aka. Please
Pura Vida aka. Pure Life SHO P
Outdoor Market at Museo Nacional in Avenida (2 & Calle 15)
TRY ME. . . Karavan Market (Panama City)
Friend Plantains SWIM
Casado Cebaco Island
Arroz Con Leche
Vigoron RE T RE AT
Try local Coffee Tree House Lodge (http://www.costaricatreehouse.com)
30TAK E M E TO
Costa Rica
& Panama YOUR CRUISE
at a glance
Panorama
49 guests in 24 oceanview cabins
From Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica to
Flamenco Marina, Panama City, Panama
or Reverse
Panama Canal Crossing on selected
DAY BY DAY departures
8 days / 7 nights
PUERTO CALDERA PORT – ISLA
DAY 1
NEGRITOS, COSTA RICA From December 2018 to April 2019
QUEPOS – PLAYA BIESANZ, COSTA From $2,590 / €2.250 plus port charges
DAY 2
RICA
On board Naturalist
PUERTO JIMENEZ – GOLFO DULCE
– CASA ORQUIDEAS PRIVATE
DAY 3
RESERVE – GOLFITO - CEBACO
ISLAND, COSTA RICA
CALETA CAIMAN / RESTINGUE
DAY 4 YOUR LAND EXPERIENCE
ISLAND, PANAMA
DAY 5 PLAYA MUERTO - DARRIEN, QUEPOS AND THE MANUEL ANTONIO
PANAMA NATIONAL PARK
DAY 6 PEARL ISLANDS - PANAMA CITY – QUEPOS & COSTA RICA: Titi Forest Canopy Tour
FLAMENCO MARINA, PANAMA
OSA PENINSULA: Osa Exploration Walk
DAY 7 PANAMA CITY, PANAMA
FLAMENCO MARINA -PANAMA GOLFO DULCE – GOLFITO: Casas Orquideas
DAY 8
CITY, PANAMA
PLAYA MUERTO – DARIEN - PANAMA: The
Emberra Indigenous Community
CRUISE MENU CASCO VIEJO AND OLD PANAMA CITY
GATUN LAKE, SAN LORENZO FORT AND
MIRAFLORES VISITOR’S CENTER
U NES CO BIRDWATCHERS BARBEQUE SN OR K E L IN G
31Cape Verde A LAND PAINT E D WITH
SUNSE T SILHO UE T T ES
From lush and forgotten valleys to cultural capitals and
art galleries, discover the true soul of the Cape Verde
Archipelago.
SAL REI, BOA VISTA Although the salt mines have long gone at Sal, the
Boa Vista Boa Vista (Portuguese meaning “good saltpans remain and are great for bathing in. Due to
view”), also written as Boavista, is a desert-like island, their buoyancy, you can float on the surface. Be sure
and the third largest of the archipelago. Blessed by to see the mirage at Terra Boa - it appears as an ocean
vast stretches of untouched golden sand, surrounded right in the middle of the desert.
by crystalline waters and boasting a relaxed and low-
key atmosphere, the island is home to some of the SAN FILIPE, FOGO
archipelago’s most beautiful and rewarding beach- Visit the Forte Real de Sao Filipe, the main slave trad-
es, with the sands here stretching for 55km. Away ing outpost and discover the
from the coast, the interior of the island presents a remnants of the first Portuguese settlers and gain in-
luna-like landscape, home to desert and barren rock- sight into the island’s trouble past.
filled vistas, dotted with date trees and the occasional Walk through the charming city of Sao Filipe with her
ruins of an abandoned village or building. Nickname terracotta rooftops, pastel painted
of Boa Vista: Ilha das dunas (island of the dunes). buildings in the island of Fire.
PRAIA, SAN TIAGO SAN ANTAO
Praia meaning “beach”, also known as «Cidade Velha» Imagine breathtaking panoramas and deep ribeiras
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Landmarks in the set against a bright blue sky – welcome to Santo
colonial city center include Albuquerque Square, the Antão. Visit the famous Paul Valley in Santo Antao,
old city hall built in the 1920s, the Presidential Pal- with the precipitous peaks, jaw-dropping ravines
ace, constructed in the end of the 19th century to and dwellings clinging to the mountain sides. Take
house the Portuguese governor and the Monumen- pictures of the bizarre rock formations that volcanic
to de Diogo Gomes and named after the Portuguese eruptions have left behind.
navigator who discovered the island in 1460.
SAO VICENTE
ESPARGOS, SAL Sao Vicente and its capital Mindelo are known as the
Sal (Portuguese for “salt” — from the mines at Pedra cultural hub of the archipelago, home
de Lume), is the archipelago’s most popular island. to some of Cape Verde’s greatest musicians, such as
Espargos, Sal’s capital city mean ‘asparagus’ in Por- Cesaria Evora.
tuguese. This refers to the wild vegetable asparagus
stalks that grow in sandy areas around the island.
32T H E BASIC S
Population 553.432
Language Portuguese
Currency Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
COORDINA
T
ES
14°55′N 2
3°
31
′W
Did you know?
• There are more Cape Verdians living abroad than
in the country.
• There are no mosquitos in Cape Verde
FO R B IRDWATC HE RS
Alexander’s Swift, Bourne’s Heron, The Raso Lark,
The Cape Verde Warbler, The Iago Sparrow, The
Cape Verde Shearwater are some of the native birds
to the island.
LO G G E RG HE AD T URT L ES
The islands are the 3rd largest nesting site for the
endangered Loggerhead turtles. The beaches of Boa
Vista and Santa Maria, give you the rare opportunity
PI CO DE FO G O to see these animals in the wild
Mountain Fogo is the highest peak of Cape Verde, rising to 2,829
meters (9,281 ft) above sea level. It rises out of the floor of an
ancient crater known as Chã das Caldeiras. The crater was formed
when some 300 cubic km of the island collapsed and slid into the
sea to the east. Mt Fogo, last erupted from late 2014 to early 2015.
FA MOU S V I S I TO RS
Charles Darwin once visited Cape Verde and studied flora and
fauna in Cape Verde in 1832. Christopher Columbus also visited the
island of Boa Vista in 1498. And Vasco da Gama visited Santiago in
1497.
33TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WWW.VARIETYCRUISES.COM
BARLAVE NTO & SOTAVE NTO
The Cape Verde islands, ten in total,
are divided into two groups:
• Barlavento (windward) islands: Santo Antão, São Vicente,
Santa Luzia, São Nicolau, Sal, and Boa Vista
• Sotavento (leeward) islands: Maio, Santiago, Fogo, and
Brava.
• Hint: Windward means the upwind from the point of
reference and Leeward is the direction downwind of the
point of reference.
MOR E A BO U T C A P E VE RD E
• Did you know that there is one goat for every two people on the islands?
• Praia de Santa Maria beach was voted as one of the top 25 beaches in the world in
TripAdvisor’s 2017 Travelers’ Choice.
• Corn is the staple food of Cabo Verde. And Cachupa is their national dish. Sugar
cane liquor is a popular drink on the islands, especially among the men.
34TA KE M E TO
Cape Verde YOUR CRUISE
at a glance
Harmony G
44 guests in 21 oceanview cabins
Saturday and Monday sailings
from Sal to Sal, Cape Verde
8 days / 7 nights
From November to December 2018
From $1,990 / €1.600 plus port charges
DAY BY DAY
YOUR LAND EXPERIENCE
DAY 1 PALMEIRA, SAL
SANTIAGO: Praia
DAY 2 SAL REI, BOA VISTA
SANTIAGO: Cidade Velha
DAY 3 PRAIA, SANTIAGO FOGO VOLCANO: Sao Felipe
DAY 4 SAN VINCENTE: Mindelo
SAO FELIPE, FOGO
SANTO ANTAO: Vale do Paul
DAY 5 MINDELO, SAN VINCENTE
MINDELO, SAN VINCENTE –
DAY 6 CRUISE MENU
PORTO NOVO- SANTO ANTAO
DAY 7 PORTO NOVO- SANTO ANTAO
DAY 8 PALMEIRA, SAL VOLC AN O PH OTOG R APH Y BARBEQUE FAU N A
& F LO R A
35Iceland
T HE UNE XP EC T E D
From Volcanic landscapes of geysers to hot springs, wa-
terfalls, glaciers and black-sand beaches, dive into the
mysterious, and beautiful world of Iceland.
REYKJAVIK crews. Today it is a surprisingly cosmopolitan place,
Reykjavík has the feel of a vibrant happening city, yet a bustling metropolis with its cozy cafes and fine
on its doorstep is a world of incredible natural beauty. choice of restaurants.
The world’s most northerly capital, although small in
populations, has everything larger cities have to offer. SIGLUFJORDUR
Reykjavík is safe and unpolluted with a rich cultural Siglufjordur has an eventful history and saw a steady
life, numerous first-class restaurants and lively bars. rise in the 20th century, from being a tiny village in
Just a few minutes’ drive outside the city is unspoilt the early 1900s to becoming a town no later than
countryside where you can encounter a cross-section as 1918. In the middle of the 20th century it was
of Iceland’s natural wonders, geology and history. For one of the largest towns in Iceland. For a long peri-
passengers spending time in the city there is a wide od it was the capital of herring fishing in the North
choice of museums, galleries, restaurants and cafés. Atlantic, and the town’s cod fishing museum bears
Shopping is a must too and the ultimate relaxation proud witness to this history. The old houses there
experience is a trip to one of the city’s thermal baths are charming and its nice to take a stroll through the
and pools. town and enjoy the architecture and the surrounding
nature. Siglufjordur is a particularly beautiful fjord,
AKRANES and high and dramatic mountains tower of the town.
Set under striking Akrafjall (572m), the town of The birdlife is varied and some 2000 birds of 16-18
Akranes lies at the tip of the peninsula separating species may usually be found in the fjord. Popular
Hvalfjörður from Borgarfjörður. Largely an admin- hiking trails include the passes Holsskard and Hestss-
istrative and factory town, it’s mainly worth a stop kard, which lead to the beautiful fjord Hedinsjordur,
for its Museum Centre, with a folk museum, restored which may also be accessed by boat.
boathouse, drying shed, church and fishing boats.
HUSAVIK
BILDUDALUR Húsavík has become a centre of whale watching in
Set on a gloriously calm bay surrounded by towering Iceland due to whales of different species that some-
peaks, the attractive fishing village Bíldudalur has one times enter the bay. The Húsavík Whale Museum is
of the finest fjord-side positions in the country. Bíldu- located by the harbour. Húsavík is also home to The
dalur was founded in the 16th century and today is a Exploration Museum, a museum about the history of
major supplier of prawns. The Skrímslasetur Icelandic human exploration. The region of Mývatn, with its in-
Sea Monster Museum has impressive multimedia ex- teresting geology and diverse animal life, is nearby.
hibits about local and foreign monster legends. The The waterfalls Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss and S elfoss
interactive multimedia table tells 180 stories of sight- are also not far from the town.
ings around Arnarfjörður.
AKUREYRI
ISAFJORDUR Though Akureyri sits only 60 miles from Arctic Circle,
Isafjordur, meaning fjord of ice is by far the region’s it has some of the best weather in Iceland. Summer
largest town, a pleasant and prosperous place and an temperature frequently range in the high 20C, mak-
excellent base for travelers. The centre of Ísafjörður is ing the city the most popular destination. Akureyri
a charming grid of old timber and tin-clad buildings, has the world’s northernmost 18- hole golf course.
many unchanged since the 18th century, when the
harbor was full of tall ships and Norwegian whaling
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