Pre-Cruise in Istanbul

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Friday, October 22, 2010

Tour at the Old City where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled. Blue Mosque, famous with its more than 20,000 blue Iznik tiles and unique with its six minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet in the 17th century, one of the best examples of classical Turkish art; Hippodrome, the scene of Byzantine chariot races, athletic events, victory celebrations, and political activities of the old city where one can also see today the Obelisk from Egypt, Serpentine Column from Delphi, the Fountain of Wilhelm II and the Colossus; the marvelous Underground Cistern; proceed to Topkapi Palace, built in 1468 by Mehmet the Conqueror, the imperial residence of Ottoman sultans housing the souvenirs of 600 years and exhibiting imperial treasury, Chinese porcelains, weapons, calligraphy section, etc.; Grand Covered Bazaar, the most attractive shopping center in the world with nearly 4000 shops.

Fodor's Review of Tugra: Cookbooks from the Ottoman palace were used to re-create some of the long-lost dishes—such as grilled quail served with noodles and yellow plums, and lamb chops cooked with fennel, chickpeas, pumpkin, and spices in a clay casserole—served at this spacious and luxurious restaurant in the Çiragan Palace. The Bosphorus view is flanked by the palace's marble columns, and the interior, with its soaring ceilings, large mirrors, and ornate chandeliers that hover above, makes you feel like royalty. After dinner, make your way to the hotel's poolside bar and enjoy the breeze. Jacket required.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Breakfast on own. Check out of hotel.

Morning Sightseeing Tour of Istanbul #2

Our first stop will be St. Sophia, one of the greatest marvels of architecture constructed as a basilica in 536 AD by Emperor Justinian. Then we will visit the Spice Bazaar, also known as Egyptian Bazaar, built and continuously operating since 1663 AD, with its domed and vaulted shops selling spices and herbs. Then proceed to the pier for a Bosphorus cruise on a public ferry. Starting the trip from the Golden Horn and sailing through the waterway separating the two continents - Asia and Europe - with a possibility to take pictures of the marble palaces, ancient wooden villas of Ottoman architecture besides modern residential. During this trip, the Ciragan Palace Hotel, Dolmabahce Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges will be viewed up close.
Lunch at typical Turkish kebob restaurant, e.g., Hamdi Et Lokantasi

Fodor's Review of Hamdi Et Lokantasi: An Istanbul institution, Hamdi consistently rates as one of the city's top restaurants for grilled meat. Delicious kebabs of minced lamb mixed with pistachios or poppy seeds are among the more unusual items, while the small lahmacun (Turkish pizza topped with spiced ground meat) will make your mouth water. Service is impeccable, with white starched tablecloths and waiters in vests and ties. The four floors can get pretty packed—the place is extremely popular with locals—so make reservations for a table on the restaurant's terrace floor, which has excellent views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
Embark on Seabourn Odyssey.

Seabourn Odyssey, Istanbul to Piraeus

Saturday, October 23, through Saturday, October 30, 2010

Embark in Istanbul with stops in Dikili, Kusadasi, Bodrum, Santorini, Mylos, Navplion, disembark in Piraeus.

Date:           Saturday, October 23, 2010
Port:            Istanbul, Turkey
Depart:        5:00 PM

Date:           Sunday, October 24, 2010
Port:            Dikili, Turkey
Arrive:         12:00 PM
Depart:        6:00 PM

Dikili is the harbor town for Bergama, located about 14 miles away from the ruins of Pergamon. This little port has a relaxing atmosphere and offers a number of pleasant seafood restaurants, located along the Kordon Promenade.

Your tour begins with a visit to Asclepion, one of the foremost medical centers of classical times built in the name of the God of Healing, Asklepios. The healing center resembled a modern natural healing clinic, where patients were treated with exercise, drugs and herbal remedies, and even by the power of suggestion. One of the most famous physicians of Asclepion was Galen, under whose influence the medical school at Pergamon became renowned. Next visit is Bergama, which lies on the north slope of the Acropolis hill running down to the plain of Bakircay, or Kaikos River. Located 19 miles from the sea, modern Bergama is a commercial and administrative town, and the center of the local fig, tobacco and cotton growing industries. Proceed to the Archaeological Museum of Bergama, which not only contains Archaic, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine finds from the area around Pergamon, but also has a good ethnographic display. Continue to Kizil Avlu, or the Red Court, a 2nd-century temple dedicated to Egyptian gods and goddesses from the time of Emperor Hadrian. In the Byzantine period, the temple was converted into a basilica and the Church of St. Peter and Paul was built inside the hall. Pergamon was one of the seven Asian apocalyptic churches, which had open courtyards on its long sides, and outer halls with fountains. Free time is afforded to explore the modern town of Bergama before commencing the return to the port. Note: Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Date:           Monday, October 25, 2010
Port:            Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Arrive:         8:00 AM
Depart:        11:00 PM

Kusadasi, which means "bird island," is set in a superb gulf known for its sparkling water, broad sandy beaches and large marina. The city has managed to retain a certain earthiness while doing a brisk trade in Turkish carpets and leather goods to visitors. The town's old quarter is a picturesque maze of winding streets and houses adorned with flowers and birdcages. In the center stands a 17th-century caravanserai, now converted into a hotel. The resort is also gateway to important sites of archaeological and religious interest.

Excursion: EPHESUS EVENING RECEPTION

When the ancient site of Ephesus is closed to visitors, our Seabourn guests experience an evening of classical music at this magnificent ancient site which serves as the backdrop. After an early dinner aboard, depart the pier via coach for the approximately 30-minute drive. Upon arrival at the site, as you proceed along the ancient road you will see the centurion guards as they mark the way. Enjoy this magical evening as you soak in the atmosphere while listening to the chamber orchestra repertoire of classical music. A unique magical evening follows! Rejoin your coach for the return drive to Kusadasi. Note: Comfortable shoes are recommended. Walking is over uneven terrain. Not recommend for guests with wheelchairs. Please note that the temperatures may be cool and therefore, light sweater or jacket is recommended.

Date:           Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Port:            Bodrum, Turkey
Arrive:         9:00 AM
Depart:        8:00 PM

Today Bodrum is a picturesque yacht harbor filled with traditional wood-varnished sailboats, charming outdoor cafes and streets bursting with small shops selling carpets, leatherwear, jewelry and local artwork. In antiquity, it was the site of ancient Halicarnassus. Under King Mausolus, the city prospered, and in death, the king left the city its most enduring legacy, his majestic tomb, from which we derive the term "mausoleum." Only its massive foundations remain today but it was the largest tomb ever built by the Greeks and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Models on the site recreate its form for visitors. Alexander the Great attacked the city in 334 BC, leveling all but the Mausoleum, which was later destroyed by an earthquake.

When the Knights of St. John lost their castle in Smyrna in 1402, they came here. Finding the mausoleum in ruins, they used the stone to construct the Castle of St. Peter, which proudly stood sentinel to the city. Together with their fortifications on Kos and Rhodes, the Knights dominated the southeastern Aegean, running a hospital for passing pilgrims and ruling the seas as privateers in swift vessels. They remained until 1523, when Ottoman ruler, Suleyman the Magnificent, conquered Rhodes and the Knights' position became untenable. The castle still dominates the harbor and houses an archeological museum.

Excursion: BODRUM CASTLE

Bodrum was once known as Halicarnassus back in 377 BC, but today has earned its popularity as an Aegean resort and yachting port. Here Bodrum is an undisputed Turkish "hot-spot" of the Aegean Coast, with its bohemian atmosphere where Turkey's artists and intellectuals gather to relax. A short shuttle transfer from the pier first brings you to town, from where you walk to the medieval Castle of St. Peter, also known as Bodrum Castle, which was built by the Knights of Rhodes. The castle guards the entrance to Bodrum's dazzling blue bay where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet. Rising majestically above the harbor, Bodrum was the last outpost of the knights in Asia Minor until the Ottoman occupation in the 16th century. The inner castle, which houses the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, is reached after passing through seven gates embellished with coats of arms and inscriptions. The museum is recognized as one of the finest of its kind in the world, and contains myriad objects discovered by submarine archaeology, including amphorae and large copper ingots recovered from a shipwreck. As your walking tour concludes, enjoy free time in town and the waterfront before transferring back to the pier. Note: Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, extensive walking in the castle, staircases will be encountered.

Date:           Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Port:            Santorini, Greece
Arrive:         7:00 AM
Depart:        11:00 PM

"Thira, the Wild Island" and "Kalliste, the Fairest One" - all terms of endearment for this seductive, volcanic Greek island in the Sea of Crete. Extraordinary for its black sand beaches and sheer limestone cliffs, Santorini also showcases remnants of the Phoenician, Spartan and Minoan cultures, which fell under the island's spell - an unvarying, irresistible lure that continues to this day. Fira, the picturesque, pedestrian-only capital, is reached from the seaport via a short cable car ride that offers thrilling views as you ascend.

Excursion: PROFITIS LLIAS & OIA VILLAGE

Transfer by local boat to the waiting motorcoach, which takes you on a journey to Santorini's highest peak, Mt. Profitis Ilias. Following this breathtaking photo opportunity, continue to the northern tip of the island and the little village of Oia, built on a steep slope of the caldera. Many of the homes and cafés are nestled in niches hewn into the volcanic rock. You have free time to stroll the narrow cobbled streets and browse the tiny shops, before continuing to Fira town, where your tour concludes. Remain in town as you wish to wander the maze of cobbled streets, or return directly to the pier via cable car. Note: Recommend comfortable walking shoes.

Date:           Thursday, October 28, 2010
Port:            Mylos, Greece
Arrive:         8:00 AM
Depart:        5:00 PM

Mylos has all the components of a perfect Greek isle - fantastic rock formations, dozens of beaches from broad strands to secluded slivers, villages of sugar-cube houses, whitewashed windmills, and glowing azure coves. The famous statue of Aphrodite of Mylos, re-named Venus de Milo, was discovered here in 1820. The French Consul, recognizing a great beauty, bought her and gave her to Louis XVIII. Today she resides in the Louvre in Paris, a symbol of the civilization that flourished on this island in centuries past.

A DAY TO RELAX...

 This a day of relaxation and a chance to enjoy the ship's Marina – October is still quite mild here. Mylos, in particular, is protected from the wind. The ship will anchor off of the island and if weather permits will employ its "Marina". The Marina is located in the stern of the ship and, once opened, allows guests the chance to swim in a protected area, as well as giving them use of the water-sport crafts. Lovely white-washed villages with their leisurely pace are ready to be explored and just a tender ride away. If anyone is interested in touring the stunning geological formations of volcanic Mylos, a special expedition will be arranged!

Date:          Friday, October 29, 2010
Port:           Navplion, Greece
Arrive:        8:00 AM
Depart:      10:00 PM

Held to be one of the loveliest small towns in all the islands, Navplion has a tradition and culture all its own. The sheltered location, below a rocky headland crowned by a Venetian fortress is perhaps unrivaled in Greece. After the Greek revolution of the early 19th century, Navplion served as the first modern capital. The neoclassical houses, large official buildings and carefully planned seafront streets all date from this period.

Excursion: ANCIENT NEMEA & WINE TASTING

Nemea was famous in Greek myth as the home of the Nemean Lion , which was killed by the hero Heracles, and as the place where the infant Opheltes, lying on a bed of parsley, was killed by a serpent while his nurse fetched water for the Seven on their way from Argos to Thebes. The Seven founded the Nemean Games in his memory, and the crown of victory was hence made of parsley and the judges wore black robes as a sign of mourning. The Nemean Games were held from 573 BC, or earlier, at the sanctuary of Zeus at Nemea. Three columns of the temple of the 4th century BC have stood since their construction and two more were reconstructed in 2002. As of late 2007, four more are being re-erected. The site around the temple has been excavated, including the great altar, bath, and hotel. The temple stands on the site of an Archaic period temple, of which only a foundation wall is still visible. The stadion (stadium) has recently been discovered. It is notable for its well-preserved vaulted entrance tunnel, dated to about 320 B.C., with ancient graffiti on the walls. The material discovered in the excavations is on display in a museum constructed as a part of the University of California's excavations. The 4th generation Palivos Estate Winery will be your next stop; one of Greece's and the regions most famous wine maker. You will have the opportunity to sample some of their award-winning wines before returning to the pier. Note: Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and hat for shade.

Date: Saturday, October 30, 2010
Port: Piraeus (Athens), Greece
Arrive: 7:00 AM

Piraeus has been the port for Athens since 482 BC. The busy harbor is filled with ferries and cruise ships making their way to the Greek Islands and other Mediterranean cities. The busy metropolis of Athens and its treasure trove of antiquities lie just a few miles from the port. Even as the reality of the modern city took hold, with its high-rise apartments, crowded sidewalks and bustling traffic, the beauty of the Acropolis, the outstanding museums, charming cafés, sidewalk markets and startling views come together in a cultural mosaic for all to enjoy.

Post-Cruise in Athens

Saturday, October 21, 2010

Disembark 9:00 AM via morning Sightseeing Tour of Athens.

Excursion: FROM THE PIRAEUS PIERS TO THE HEART OF ATHENS

You will view many significant historical and archaeological monuments that date back to the Golden Age of Pericles, in the 5th century BC. During that time, the wealthy, newly democratic and invigorated city-state decided to rebuild the Temples on top of the Acropolis in great splendor. Visit the Parthenon, dedicated to the Goddess Athena, a unique masterpiece of Greek Architecture. This monument is recognized as the culmination of Greek architecture and sculpture. Examine the Propylea, which blends Doric and Ionic building principles. Continue to the Temple of the Athena Nike (Wingless Victory) and the Erechtheum Temple, which was formerly used for cult worship and consists of three basic parts: the main Temple, the north extension and the famous Porch of Maidens. Explore the Museum of the Acropolis that opened to the public on June 21, 2009. This beautiful new archaeological museum holds nearly 4,000 artifacts, including many masterpieces, in 14,000 square meters of exhibition space, covering the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece periods. View Mars Hill, where St. Paul preached Christianity. You will also be seeing the Ancient Agora, Tower of the Winds, Herodes Atticus Theater, Theater of Dionyssos, Temple of Zeus, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the former Royal Palace which is now the House of Parliament. Continue to the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, the National Library and then to the "Panathenian" Olympic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896.

Check-in at Grand Bretagne Hotel.

Afternoon at leisure.

Late evening bus to the village of Trigono for dinner at Taverna to Trigono. This will be an unforgettable culinary, country experience.

Starters: Greek salad, tzatziki, spicy cheese dip (tyrokafteri), fried peppers, florina sweet red peppers, boiled greens (radikia), feta cheese,
Main Course: “heroic amount of” Lamb Chops, freshly cut, fried potatoes,
Drink: Retsina, i.e., white wine with pine resin; mineral water.

Return and overnight at hotel.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Morning Breakfast/Conference in private room for closing presentations.

Lunch and afternoon on own.

Evening gather in lobby and for final gala dinner at Daphne's Restaurant in the Plaka.

Frommer's Review of Daphne's: Frescoes adorn the walls of this neoclassical 1830s home, which includes a shady garden courtyard displaying bits of ancient marble found on-site. Diners from around the world sit at Daphne's tables. The courtyard makes it a real oasis in Athens, especially when summer nights are hot. The food here -- recommended by the New York Times, Travel + Leisure, and just about everyone else -- gives you all the old favorites with new distinction (try the zesty eggplant salad), and combines familiar ingredients in innovative ways (delicious hot pepper and feta cheese dip). We could cheerfully eat the hors d'oeuvres all night. We have also enjoyed the stifado (stew) of rabbit in mavrodaphne (sweet-wine) sauce and the tasty prawns with toasted almonds. Live music plays unobtrusively in the background on some nights. The staff is attentive, endearing, and beyond excellent.

Return and overnight at hotel

Monday, November 1, 2010

Breakfast on own.

Check out, depart for Athens Airport.

Roger Conrad

Utilities Markets Analysis and Canadian Trusts

Roger S. Conrad’s concisely presented lectures are always voted among the best-of-seminar, whether the competition is just his own colleagues at KCI-exclusive events or numbering in the hundreds, during his many appearances at financial mega-seminars around the world.

As founder and editor of KCI’s award-winning Utility Forecaster, the nation’s leading advisory on essential services stocks, bonds and preferred stocks, his proprietary safety rating system evaluates the prospects of every significant electric, natural gas, telecommunications and water company, including utility-based mutual funds and foreign utilities. Roger’s detailed research and studied insights into utilities markets also elevate Vital Resource Investor, where he is co-editor with Yiannis Mostrous, and Personal Finance, where is serves as associate editor.

He brings the same intelligence and method to bear on Roger Conrad’s Canadian Edge, an Internet-based publication devoted to uncovering lucrative investment opportunities in Canadian royalty trusts. Roger’s exhaustive coverage of how recent changes to Canada’s tax laws will affect these companies has earned him a reputation as one of the leading authorities on Canadian trusts.

He is the author of Power Hungry: Strategic Investing in Telecommunications, Utilities and Other Essential Services and coauthor of The Agile Investor and Market Timing for the Nineties with Stephen Leeb.

Gregg S. Early

Personal Finance and New Technology/Nanotechnology Market Analysis

Gregg Early is vice-president of KCI Communications and executive editor of the company’s flagship publication, Personal Finance. Over the past decade, he has helped build the newsletter’s reputation as a trusted source for penetrating market analysis and investment advice. He also oversees the editorial department’s other award-winning publications.

In addition to his commitment to full portfolio management, Gregg has spearheaded KCI’s forefront position in the niche markets of nanotechnology and the frontiers of new technology, which range among high-temperature superconducting, alternative energy, intelligence infrastructure, the constant advances in the nanotech and biotech sectors, and beyond. Gregg produces The Real Nanotech Investor, one of the very few financial advisories that focuses on how individual investors can capitalize on innovations in nanotech and disruptive technologies. His free e-zine, New Tech Investor, keeps readers updated on the latest advances and developments in nascent technology sectors and the opportunities therein.

Gregg has found that following his broader interests in life almost always open doors to investment – and he strongly encourages others to make the same cross-overs. He practices what he preaches: in addition to finance, Gregg’s journalistic assignments have included health care, gastronomy and education, and he is a trained chef, a published poet and playwright…and a scratch golfer.

Elliott H. Gue

Global Energy and Technology Market Analysis

Elliott H. Gue brings a unique international perspective to the table. The first American to complete both the bachelors (Economics/Management) and masters (Finance) at the University of London, the UK’s highest-rated business school, Elliott has made understanding and profiting from the complexities of global energy markets and related industries his life’s work.

From traditional fuels like coal and crude oil to the latest alternative energy sources, Elliott’s semimonthly newsletter, The Energy Strategist, unearths the most profitable opportunities in this booming sector and outlines the interrelated economic and geopolitical forces that drive these markets. He also coauthored with fellow KCI editor Yiannis Mostrous the book, The Silk Road to Riches: How You Can Profit by Investing in Asia’s Newfound Prosperity on investment opportunities in Asia.

Elliott H. Gue is associate editor of KCI’s flagship publication, Personal Finance, contributing his knowledge of global energy markets, technology and sector investing. He also produces KCI’s free e-newsletters, The Energy Letter, which provides regular updates on energy market conditions; and Trader’s Talk, which informs readers of investment opportunities using technical analysis.

Yiannis G. Mostrous

International Market Analysis and Venture Financing.

Yiannis G. Mostrous believes that travel is a prerequisite to expertise in identifying investment opportunities abroad, and his authority in shedding light on emerging and overlooked markets stems partly from his fulfillment of that commitment – to makes tracks to all corners of the world on a regular basis. But nowhere is Yiannis more at home…than in his native Greece. He and his Greek colleagues have been instrumental in preparing the way for our Five-Star Investment Conversations among the Isles of Greece.

Before joining KCI, Yiannis worked at Artemel International as an analyst to promote business development in the Mediterranean; at Finance & Investment Associates as a start up company analyst in their venture capital division; as a consultant for the Athens, Greece, brokerage firm Intersec Securities, as a primary researcher.

Since joining KCI, he has been editor of the financial advisory, The Silk Road Investor, which identifies the most current and most profitable facets of emerging global economies from China to India, but always in the context of the broader historical and political conditions that touch every investment along this ancient trading route. In addition, Yiannis is co-editor with Roger Conrad of the subscription-based service, Vital  Resource Investor, focused on seeking opportunities for equity investors in the global natural resource markets. Through these two publications, and his free weekly e-zine, Emerging Markets Speculator, Yiannis offers individual investors clear paths to internationalize their portfolios. He is coauthor with fellow KCI Editor Elliott Gue of the book, The Silk Road to Riches: How You Can Profit by Investing in Asia’s Newfound Prosperity.

We have eight Penthouses in our allotment, but any of the Grand or Owners Suites shown above are also available on a first-come, first-serve basis. For all KCI guests choosing a Penthouse or higher category, we have put together a Premium Package. Here is a comparison of this Premium and the Standard Package that goes with all Veranda Suite categories - no matter what category you choose, you will receive unparalleled service from the experts at Seabourn Cruises, Joseph H. Conlin Travel and 24/7 access to Roger, Elliott, Yiannis and Gregg:

Premium package includes:

Istanbul, Turkey:

• Private Mercedes Sedan transfer from Istanbul International Airport to the Ritz Carlton
• Porterage at the Airport
• Ritz Carlton Full Sea View room
• Private Mercedes Sedan transfer from the Ritz Carlton to the Seabourn Odyssey
• All meals and tours as described in the itinerary

Athens, Greece:

• Grand Bretagne Acropolis View Deluxe Room (33 sqm), inclusive of 24-hour WIFI
• Grand Bretagne Hotel to Airport Transfer Service by Mercedes Sedan Car with English-speaking driver, airport porterage and all taxes
• All meals and tours as described in the itinerary

Standard Package includes:

• Group coach or minivan transfer from Istanbul International Airport to the Ritz Carlton
• Ritz Carlton Partial Sea View room
• Group coach or minivan transfer from the Ritz Carlton to the Seabourn Odyssey
• All meals and tours as described in the itinerary

Athens:

• Grand Bretagne City View Classic Room (27 sqm)
• Grand Bretagne Hotel to Airport Transfer Service by deluxe coach, English speaking escort, airport porterage and all taxes
• All meals and tours as described in the itinerary

For further information and reservations, please contact Joseph H. Conlin Travel Management at 212-333-7844 or Toll-Free at 877-814-6502 or direct to:

Kelly DeMarco at kd@jhcbh.com or by cell phone: 201-889-2796

Brian Hunter at bh@jhcbh.com or by cell phone: 917-331-0202