Lead Pricing
| VI - Suite | CV - Suite | DX - Suite | SV - Suite |
|---|---|---|---|
|
AU $21,200 per person
|
AU $24,200 per person
|
AU $25,300 per person
|
AU $25,800 per person
|
Art inspires. Awakens your emotions and stimulates your thoughts.
In the quiet calm of morning, your private veranda becomes a place of true inspiration. Surrounded by the magnificence of the dawning day, at one with the vista of sea and sky, in awe of nature and the vast beauty of this world. The shoreline of the next port slides closer and closer into view, and with it an undeniable anticipation of things to come and the promise of limitless possibilities.
Silversea creates exceptional ocean journeys with unique opportunities to explore remote ports-of-call from an intimate haven of incomparable luxury, each voyage a unique masterpiece. Discover genuine European expertise reflected in every detail, from our tranquil all-suite accommodation and uncompromising service to distinctive fine dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy.
Our guests hail from across the globe, yet share an appreciation for the spectrum of choice offered in Silversea’s array of exotic destinations and exclusive explorations ashore. By blending these elements together with enrichment experiences, each new port becomes more than a destination, it becomes a state of mind, transcending the traditional concepts of cruising. It is this distinction that has earned Silversea the reputation of World’s Best.
ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE
COMPLIMENTARY BEVERAGES SERVED THROUGHOUT THE SHIP An extensive selection of fine wines, champagne, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks are yours to enjoy — all courtesy of Silversea.
IN-SUITE BEVERAGE CABINET STOCKED WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that awaits you, every suite features a beverage cabinet stocked with your preferred assortment of complimentary beverages.
COMPLIMENTARY IN-SUITE DINING AND 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE A formal dinner served course-by-course, a late-night snack, or a full breakfast delivered at your request — with no charge and no tipping.
COMPLIMENTARY SILVERSEA EXPERIENCE® A shoreside event exclusively for Silversea guests on select voyages. Recent outings have included dinner in the desert in Namibia and a concert at the ruins of Ephesus.
A FULL SPECTRUM OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENRICHMENT Production shows, classical concerts, and folkloric performances. Multi-tiered show lounge. Lectures by world affairs experts, renowned authors and destination specialists.
COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION INTO TOWN Roundtrip transportation from the pier to the heart of town in most ports of call.
Silversea … The art of travel. The art of good living.
A quiet sanctuary. The sitting area of the Vista Suite has plenty of room to relax. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.
The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed.
One bedroom: 287 ft² / 27m²
Features
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
The Classic Veranda Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located lower bow, the Classic Veranda Suite offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard — both inside and out. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
Located on the upper deck, and offering spectacular sunset views, the Superior Veranda Suite has all the comforts and luxury that you can expect aboard. A comfortable living space, attention to detail and a generous expanse of amenities, this stunning suite makes for a cosy home while on the seas. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32 m² including veranda
The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers a comfortable living space, close to the heart of the ship. With its preferred mid-ship location and all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard, the Deluxe Veranda Suite is the savvy traveller’s paradise— both inside and out. Elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32 m² including veranda
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury.
An extravagant suite for an extravagant cruise.
One bedroom: 521 ft² / 49m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room with sitting area and dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at Officer’s Table
Stylish and sophisticated. Separate dining and living rooms. Larger verandas. Situated midship.
Perfection in design for comfortable living.
Silver Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 653–701 ft² / 61–65m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, full-sized bath and separate shower
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso Machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.
One bedroom: 967–1,007 sq ft / 90–94m2 including veranda (110–116 sq ft / 10–11m2)
Suite Features:
*Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
*Living room with sitting area
*Twin beds or queen-sized bed
*Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room
*Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
*Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
*Writing desk(s)
*Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
*Bang & Olufsen audio system
*Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
*Direct-dial telephone(s)
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Silversea Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The name Owner’s Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.
Available as two-bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
Two bedroom: 1,312–1,352 sq ft / 122–126m2 including veranda (170–176 sq ft / 16–17m2)
Suite Features:
*Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; two-bedroom has additional veranda
*Living room with sitting area; two-bedroom has additional sitting area
*Separate dining area and bar
*Twin beds or queen-sized bed; two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
*Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
*Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
*Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
*Writing desk(s)
*Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
*Bang & Olufsen audio system
*Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
*Direct-dial telephone(s)
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”.
Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Silversea Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The name Owners Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Authentic experiences. Simple pleasures. Shared moments. Silversea’s Millennium Class luxury cruise ships Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper offer you freedom and space to design your day. Slightly larger in size than ships Silver Cloud and Silver Wind, Silver Shadow retains Silversea’s essence – spacious suites, a complement of only 382 guests, superior service – paired with a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere and enhanced amenities. Aboard the Silver Shadow, energize body and soul with complimentary Pilates and yoga in the expanded fitness center. Savor fine wines and regional culinary creations in Le Champagne, the only Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux at sea. Or simply gaze at endless ocean views. Relish, relax, recharge … repeat … Silver Shadow.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 610 Feet
- Tonnage: 28,258 tonnes
- Maiden Voyage: 2000
- Refurbished: 2017
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 382
- Crew Nationality: International
- Officer Nationality: European
- Dining Staff Nationality: International
- Ship Registration: Bahamas
Ship Facilities
- Jogging Track
- Pool Bar
- Fitness Centre
- Beauty Salon
- The Panorama Lounge
- Internet Cafe
- The Pool Grill
- Observation Bar
- Lifts
- The Spa at Silversea
- Swimming Pool
- The Library
- La Terrazza
- La Dame
- The Connoisseur’s Corner
- Conference / Card Room
- The Show Lounge
- Casino
- The Bar
- Shopping Boutiques
- The Show Lounge
- The Restaurant
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Sep '21 | Athens (Piraeus) Greece |
07:00 PM | |
| 21 Sep '21 | At sea | ||
| 22 Sep '21 | Istanbul, Turkey |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 23 Sep '21 | Istanbul, Turkey |
06:00 PM | |
| 24 Sep '21 | At sea | ||
| 25 Sep '21 | Trabzon, Turkey |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 26 Sep '21 | Batumi, Georgia |
08:00 AM | 09:00 PM |
| 27 Sep '21 | Sochi, Russia |
08:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| 28 Sep '21 | At sea | ||
| 29 Sep '21 | Odessa, Ukraine |
08:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| 30 Sep '21 | Constanta, Romania |
01:00 PM | 08:00 PM |
| 01 Oct '21 | Bourgas, Bulgaria |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 02 Oct '21 | At sea | ||
| 03 Oct '21 | Kusadasi, Turkey |
08:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| 04 Oct '21 | Rhodes, Greece |
09:00 AM | 02:00 PM |
| 05 Oct '21 | Athens (Piraeus) Greece |
07:00 AM |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
15 Night Cruise sailing from Athens roundtrip aboard Silver Shadow.
Bordered by six countries – all of which are visited – the Black Sea is a treasure trove of eastern delights. Yet, despite its rich history, it remains a destination to be uncovered by travellers. Beginning with an overnight in Istanbul, you’ll quickly be consumed by the beauty the Botanical forests of Georgia, the ex-Olympic sites of Sochi and the Baroque architecture of Odessa. A Bosphorus cruise completes the trip.
Highlights of this cruise:
Athens
A city of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece’s capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus’ giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens’ urban area. From there it’s a simple jaunt to the centre. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon – which date back to the 5th century BC – stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens’ best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city’s enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it’s an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry – try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation.
Istanbul
A chaotic, colossal collision of east and west – start your day in Europe and end it in Asia, all without breaking a sweat. Sprawling across two continents, the city has been toed, froed and yanked between countless civilisations over its history, leaving a multi-layered, majestic tapestry of culture to untangle. An army of narrow minarets puncture the skyline, while the soaring towers of palaces and labyrinths of bazaars – where bargains are the reward for brave hagglers – fill up this dynamic city of 15 million people. With a rich portfolio of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, Istanbul enjoys one of the world’s most dynamic skylines and has an intense, infectious energy. The vast Aya Sofya is the starting point for exploring this huge city’s deep wealth of cultural treasures. Built in the 6th century as a Greek Orthodox church, it was later transformed into an Ottoman imperial mosque – and latterly a museum. Cast your eyes up to take in the full scale of the colossal dome, one of the world’s largest, which floats on a magnificent bed of light. See the Blue Mosque, with its glorious blue Ä°znik tiles, or head to the Galata Tower which was once the tallest structure in Istanbul, and is ideal for a panoramic view of the city. Grab handfuls of dates and spices, shop for jewellery and patterned fabrics as you’re swallowed whole by the Grand Bazaar – one of the world’s biggest and busiest covered indoor markets. To understand Istanbul is to visit its kahvehans. Few rituals are taken as seriously as Turkish coffee – prepared to be incredibly strong. Sweeten the aftertaste with Turkish delight, or baklava – try the smooth pistachio version called kuru baklava.
Sochi
The breadbasket of Russia, the Krasnodar Krai is almost the size of Ireland. It’s a region where the banks of the Kuban River gave a name (not to mention freedom) to the famous Kuban Cossacks; it is also a land where wheat fields and vineyards chase the horizon and the high Caucasus Mountains meet the sunlit shores of the Black Sea. The region became part of Russia in 1829. Sochi, often called the “Pearl of the Black Sea,” includes four districts and stretches for about 90 miles along Russia’s southern coast. This area enjoys the northernmost subtropical climate in the world. Nature has been generous to Sochi by creating a unique location where in 40 minutes you can travel between the sunny beaches of the Black Sea and the snow-capped Caucasus Mountains. Since Sochi is Russia’s premier summer resort destination, the announcement that it would host the 2014 Winter Olympic Games was seen as ironic, but the winter sports in these parts are also legendary. Sochi is surrounded by striking natural beauty: the Caucasus Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; many caves, which were dwellings of prehistoric people; megalithic tombs (called dolmens); and curative mineral springs. And don’t forget all those new luxury hotels and spa complexes underway, set to open in time for the Olympics. Sochi is a sightseer’s dream—from monuments to natural attractions, you can spend weeks exploring the region. Top cultural attractions are mostly in central Sochi, while the other districts have more nature sights.
Constanta
ConstanÅ£a is Romania’s largest Black Sea port and one of the country’s biggest cities, with a population of some 260,000. The modern port was built up rapidly by Romania’s post-war Communist government, but the city’s history goes back more than 2,500 years when it founded by the Greeks as a fishing village called Tomis. ConstanÅ£a was captured by the Romans in 29 BC. The noted Roman poet Ovid was banished here in 8 AD for the last years of his life by Emperor Augustus after allegedly writing poetry that was too racy (even by the lax standards of ancient Rome). Ovid remains the city’s most famous resident, and a large statue of him stands in the central square, PiaÅ£a Ovidiu. Beyond the city limits of ConstanÅ£a, the resort area of Mamaia (Romania’s most popular seaside holiday destination) stretches out along a sandbar for a length of about 6 kms (4 mi). Bucharest is also within reach, though it is a long (150+ mi) drive. Passenger cruise ships dock in the main port, just a short walk from the center of the city and the main museums and cultural sights. Though ConstanÅ£a is a large city, the historic core is small and easily managed on foot. Most of the sights are clustered around the central square, PiaÅ£a Ovidiu.