My husband and I are booked on the Splendor of the Seas in November, 2007. Anyone up to predicting what the weather will be like then? I'm envisioning the high tides. Yipes!
I have been to Venice before and found that the Alilaguna is the best and cheapest way to get to Venice island from the airport. If we are leaving from the pier, is it on the mestre side or the island side? Should we dump our suitcases and spend a couple of hours in Venice or should we just hang out until it is time to embark? We are staying an extra night after the cruise and need a recommendation on a good hotel. Last time I was there I stayed at Il Portico at the San Marcoula vap stop. It was really close to the train station and not noisy. I could actually see a canal from my room and it was super cheap (less than 60E). My hubby has never been to Venice and I want it to knock his socks off. I am hoping to get in a gondola ride (a must for first timers or old timers).
Any advice from SOTS alumni? We are also cruising to Dubrovnik, Kusadasi, Santorini and Corfu. Come on, give me the good advice I always see on this message board.
Thanks travelers!
Suz

Well, Im booked on this ship but Im going in August instead of Nov. After booking this cruise I read all the 'wonderful' posts about the crowds and heat and... anyway, it was the only time my daughter could get away between work and school. We are staying in Venice for 3 nights prior to the cruise, in Germany 7 nights prior to that and then going to Florence and Rome for a total of 8 nights.

After I get back I will let you know what I learned and give a trip report. This is my first time to these countries and I am very very excited..

Shelley

ssloan we are on this ship departing 11/17. We have been in Venice in November and it was pretty chilly. I do not know what to expect in Greece but I do not think it will be hot. We are coming ahead of time and staying in Venice prior to cruise.

We are also on the 11/17 cruise. November is the rainy season in Venice, so it can be quite chilly and wet.

As far as hotels go, I can recommend the Hotel Violino d'Oro. It is close to San Marco.

Thanks for the advice all. Maybe we will bump into each other while I am disembarking to go to Venice for the day and you are just starting your adventure.
Good luck and have fun!