Behavioral Medicine and Gastroenterology

Venice (Ravenna), Italy - While your itinerary may say “Venice (Ravenna),” your journey begins in a city that is a world-class destination in its own right. Welcome to Ravenna, a serene and captivating city on the Adriatic coast that offers the perfect overture to your maritime adventure. Located in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, Italy’s celebrated “food valley,” Ravenna was briefly the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later the Italian capital of the Byzantine Empire. During this golden age, incredible mosaics were constructed throughout the city, creating an artistic legacy of unparalleled brilliance. Described as a symphony of color in Dante's Divine Comedy, Ravenna's eight UNESCO World Heritage sites contain some of the finest, most well-preserved mosaics in the Western world. For those accustomed to a demanding schedule, arriving a day or two before embarkation is not an indulgence; it is an essential transition. It allows you to shed the stresses of travel, acclimate to the time zone, and immerse yourself in a world of profound beauty and history, ensuring you step aboard your vessel relaxed, enriched, and ready for the experience ahead. It’s the perfect way to begin a well-deserved vacation. **Your Pre-Cruise Stay in Ravenna: A Suggested Itinerary** **Arrival Day: Settling into the Heart of History** Your journey will likely begin by flying into Bologna (BLQ), the region's largest international airport, located about an hour's train ride away. The efficient Italian rail system makes the transfer simple and scenic. Alternatively, smaller airports like Forlì (FRL) or Rimini (RMI) are even closer. Upon arrival in Ravenna, settle into a hotel within the compact, walkable historic center (*centro storico*). This pedestrian-friendly core is where the city’s treasures lie, allowing you to explore with ease. After checking in, take a leisurely stroll to the Piazza del Popolo, the city's elegant main square. Find a seat at an outdoor café, order a glass of local Sangiovese or a refreshing Aperol Spritz, and simply watch the world go by. This is the heart of Ravenna's social life, a perfect spot to decompress and absorb the gentle rhythm of the city. For dinner, forgo an elaborate plan and wander the quiet side streets to find a local trattoria. Here you can savor your first taste of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary genius: perhaps a plate of handmade *cappelletti al ragù* or a simple, perfect *piadina*, the region’s beloved flatbread, filled with prosciutto and squacquerone cheese. **Day Two: A Symphony of Gold and Color** Today is dedicated to Ravenna’s crown jewels: its breathtaking mosaics. Purchase a cumulative ticket (*biglietto unico*), which provides access to the city's most important UNESCO sites. Begin at the **Basilica di San Vitale**, an octagonal masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Step inside and prepare to be mesmerized. The walls and ceilings are not merely decorated but completely enveloped in shimmering glass tiles depicting biblical scenes and the imperial court of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, whose portraits gaze across the apse with an arresting, lifelike intensity. Adjacent to the basilica is the **Mausoleum of Galla Placidia**. This small, unassuming brick structure hides one of the most magical interiors in all of Italy. As your eyes adjust to the dim light, a deep blue, star-spangled mosaic ceiling reveals itself, creating an intimate and ethereal atmosphere that feels a world away from the sunlit piazza outside. From here, a short walk takes you to the **Neonian Baptistery**, with its stunning mosaic of the Baptism of Christ, and the **Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo**. Originally built for the Arian cult, its long nave is famously lined with two magnificent mosaic processions: a parade of 22 virgin martyrs departing from the port of Classe on one side, and 26 male martyrs leaving Ravenna's palace on the other, all set against a radiant gold background. In the afternoon, pay a visit to the final resting place of a literary giant. **Dante Alighieri**, the author of *The Divine Comedy*, was exiled from his native Florence and spent his final years in Ravenna. His neoclassical tomb is a site of quiet pilgrimage. Nearby, you can explore the charming shops selling high-quality mosaic reproductions, local ceramics, and gourmet food products—perfect for a meaningful souvenir. As evening approaches, indulge in an authentic culinary experience. Visit the city’s *Mercato Coperto* (covered market) to see the vibrant local produce and perhaps sample some regional specialties. For your final pre-cruise dinner, seek out a restaurant specializing in fresh Adriatic seafood, a perfect pairing for the coastal setting and a delightful prelude to your journey at sea. Ravenna is not merely a starting point; it is a destination that sets a tone of cultural depth, relaxed discovery, and exceptional quality for the entire voyage to come.

Split, Croatia - The second largest city in Croatia, Split has many attractions but is best known for the many historical landmarks found within and around the walls of Diocletian's Palace and the 1700-year old harbour beneath it. The Old Town which comprises the palace is in a remarkable state of preservation. In addition, the Split-Dalmatia County has numerous museums, old churches and other archeological sites which make it an important cultural attraction. History, culture, scenic countryside and the sunny weather make Split a sought after destination for vacationers and water sports lovers.

Dubrovnik, Croatia - Thick 16th-century stone walls encase the entire Old Town of Dubrovnik. But there are no boundaries on the endless adventures you’ll discover among its orange-roofed ramparts. With a made-for-TV appeal— Game of Thrones was actually filmed here— the city commands your attention with the perfectly preserved Rector’s Palace, elaborate Onofrio’s Fountain, and baroque St. Blaise’s Church, named after the city’s patron saint. You can browse museum collections showcasing Croatian artwork, period furniture and shipbuilding traditions. Stand in awe of the Franciscan Monastery library’s 30,000 volumes. Or to get your heart pumping, go cliff diving into the sea and kayak crystal blue waters, with the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ shimmering in the distance.

Kotor, Montenegro - Looking at a map of Europe, you might be forgiven for missing Kotor — a tiny port in the already-tiny country of Montenegro. But from the moment your Kotor cruise docks, you'll enter a larger-than-life world of mighty forts and towering sea cliffs, the air filled with the refreshing smell of the ocean. On a Mediterranean cruise, you can explore the attractions inside Kotor's fortified Old City, one of the Mediterranean's best-preserved medieval towns. Don't miss the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, an ornate church first consecrated in 1166. Then, scale St. John's Fortress — the hilltop fortifications, dating back to the 6th century, offer the best views of the city, the harbor and the surrounding mountains.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Messina, Sicily - A beautiful sheltered harbor is your gateway to Taormina, a small town at heart despite its major tourist attraction: the sublime Teatro Greco, offering panoramic views of the coastline and snow-capped Mt. Etna.

Salerno, Italy (Amalfi Coast) - Framed by Mount Vesuvius along a dramatic skyline, the 2,800 year-old port city of Naples is chock full of historical sites, churches, and museums that make it an incredible place for you to explore. And in the region where pizza was first invented, you know the food is going to be incredible. Just 35 miles down the coast, Salerno offers you a rich history but also boasts a marvelous collection of parks, natural wonders, and unique vantage points to take in the beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Two cities. One incredible stretch of Italian coastline.

Portofino, Italy - Portofino, picturesquely situated in a narrow cove at the southeastern tip of a promontory might be the most beautiful place you'll ever see. A tiny port on Italy's northern coast, enchanting Portofino has long been popular with artists, actors and important people thanks to its beautiful setting. Abundantly blessed with agreeable climate and luxuriant vegetation, this "Pearl of the Mediterranean" should have a place on everyone's "bucket list." Fortunately for we in the know, it still remains unspoiled. 

La Spezia, Italy - Your overnight stay in La Spezia gives allows for unhurried adventures into the heart of Ligurian and Tuscan splendor without the usual rush. It’s your chance to craft a personal journey, whether that means a full-day immersion in Renaissance art or a leisurely two-day discovery of coastal and countryside charms.

With the luxury of time, allow the masterpieces of Florence blossom into a profound encounter. It is easily reached by direct train from La Spezia Centrale (approx. 1.5-2.5 hours) through picturesque Italian landscapes. Imagine a full day with Brunelleschi's magnificent Dome, the Uffizi's unparalleled artistic treasures, or Michelangelo's breathtaking David , perhaps even choosing an overnight stay in Florence itself for an intimate, magical experience of the city after hours. Nearby, Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower, standing sentinel in the Piazza dei Miracoli alongside the Duomo and Baptistery , offers another captivating Tuscan highlight, reachable in under an hour by train from La Spezia Centrale , perfect for a focused visit or combined with Florence for a day of iconic sights.

Alternatively, or for your second day, the breathtaking Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just minutes away by train from La Spezia Centrale or accessible by a scenic ferry from Molo Italia for stunning views of "vineyard terraces and charming buildings from the sea." Explore the "colorful buildings on a cliff" in ancient villages like Riomaggiore and romantic Manarola , discover the welcoming beaches of Monterosso , or fall for the charm of Vernazza, often called "the pearl of the Cinque Terre." The high-perched Corniglia offers sweeping, unforgettable panoramas. Consider dedicating your first day to Tuscany, returning to La Spezia for a delightful Ligurian dinner featuring fresh local seafood or pasta with fragrant pesto. Day two could then be devoted to the captivating Cinque Terre, followed by exploring La Spezia itself.

Don’t overlook La Spezia’s own authentic Italian charm. This "normal functioning city" invites you to wander its historic center, admiring elegant "Liberty" architecture in Piazza Verdi and browsing shops along Via del Prione. Visit the historic Castello di San Giorgio for panoramic views or the intriguing Naval Technical Museum. Immerse yourself in vibrant local life at the bustling Piazza Cavour food market (Mon-Sat), a true feast for the senses , or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined harbor promenade, the Passeggiata Costantino Morin. For a deeper dive into local culture, consider a hands-on pesto making class, learning traditional Ligurian secrets from a local chef , or an authentic cooking experience in a local's home. For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the nearby Lunigiana region of northern Tuscany offers medieval villages like Pontremoli, with their stone bridges and cobbled lanes , and unique truffle hunting excursions, a cherished "cultural ritual."

This extended stay in La Spezia is an invitation to explore iconic landmarks without haste, discover hidden gems, taste authentic flavors at their source, and create deeply personal, unforgettable memories. Embrace this unique opportunity to tailor your Italian adventure.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy - Extraordinary architecture, millennia of turbulent history, magnificent basilicas concealing unimaginable riches, and ornate fountains splashing at the heart of sun-drenched piazzas await you just an hour from your final port of Civitavecchia. Art greets you on every corner in Rome, from elaborate statues to delicate frescoes. Consider extending your stay after disembarkation to fully explore the eternal city – stroll the ancient center where history comes to life as you discover the Colosseum, the Pantheon and the Roman Forum. Enjoy Italian café culture in Trastevere, where you can wander the narrow streets and soak up a sense of la dolce vita, or throw a coin into the baroque Trevi Fountain to guarantee your return to this vibrant, intoxicating city.

After your cruise concludes in Civitavecchia, you'll have easy access to Rome via regular train service or organized transfers. Whether you've just completed a journey through the Italian Riviera, explored the Greek Islands, or sailed from the ancient ramparts of Kotor, Montenegro, ending your cruise here offers the perfect opportunity to extend your European adventure in one of the world's most celebrated cities.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy - Extraordinary architecture, millennia of turbulent history, magnificent basilicas concealing unimaginable riches, and ornate fountains splashing at the heart of sun-drenched piazzas await you just an hour from your final port of Civitavecchia. Art greets you on every corner in Rome, from elaborate statues to delicate frescoes. Consider extending your stay after disembarkation to fully explore the eternal city – stroll the ancient center where history comes to life as you discover the Colosseum, the Pantheon and the Roman Forum. Enjoy Italian café culture in Trastevere, where you can wander the narrow streets and soak up a sense of la dolce vita, or throw a coin into the baroque Trevi Fountain to guarantee your return to this vibrant, intoxicating city.

After your cruise concludes in Civitavecchia, you'll have easy access to Rome via regular train service or organized transfers. Whether you've just completed a journey through the Italian Riviera, explored the Greek Islands, or sailed from the ancient ramparts of Kotor, Montenegro, ending your cruise here offers the perfect opportunity to extend your European adventure in one of the world's most celebrated cities.