The Oosterdam in this day and age is a ‘mid sized’ ship and carried 2111 guests and 809 crew and at no time did the ship appear crowded even on ‘sea days’ when there where still plenty of sun chairs available.  It also offered an “As you wish” dining option which meant that we could choose to have dinner at the time that suited us best and get a table for two every night rather than having fixed times and having to share a table with strangers.  Generally the food was very good, although we did feel that the lunchtime buffet was rather limited.

The itinerary was Barcelona (Spain), Monte Carlo (Monaco), Livorno (Italy), Civitavecchia (Italy), Messina (Italy), Navplion (Greece), Katakolon (Greece), Corfu, Dubrovnik (Croatia) and Venice (Italy) all in 12 days, so it was a bit of a case of if its Wednesday it must be Monaco, but it was an excellent combination of destinations.  Cruising past the Island of Stromboli (an active Volcano) and the approaches into Venice overlooking St Mark’s Square are certainly worth a mention.

A couple of things to consider, HAL offer airport transfers on arrival and departure which are at a horrendous price – so much cheaper to take a taxi even for just two people and this way you can travel when you want to and not wait to be herded on to a coach.  The ship gave no information for ‘independent’ travellers disembarking at Venice which was disappointing and caused unnecessary stress for those on early flights; however on the day it in fact could not have been easier to make your own way.  The cost of the ship transfers in Corfu where also expensive and we found it a relatively easy walk into town (approx 20 minute stroll)

Overall, despite a few niggles the HAL experience was good, although we felt that Celebrity are slightly better as far as overall service is concerned but we would cruise with HAL again providing both the itinerary and the price where right.

Corfu is blessed with some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. Most of these beaches are always crowded with tourists. Only a few of them are a bit secluded and hence escape the summer rush of tourists.

Holidays in Corfu are perfect for those who love a bustling atmosphere. One can enjoy the sea view with other like-minded tourists. The resorts on the island are beautiful and make most of the tourist boom. The northern coves of the island have no dearth of discos, pubs and resorts. The coastline boasts of a wide range of accommodation that comprises of campsites, apartments and hotels. These accommodations try to suit the budget of all kinds of tourists.

Corfu is the ideal place to start exploring the magnificent beaches of the Greek isles and the calm, blue waters of the Mediterranean. The water remains cool during most parts of the year and is extremely tempting.

Corfu is an island of 60 kilometers length and its maximum width is around 30 kilometers. Mount Pantokrator is the highest point of Corfu and from the summit, which is at a height of 906 meters, one can see the whole of the island. The summit has a monastery and an old church of Christ Pantocrator, which was built around 1350AD. On days with good visibility, the view from the peak can stretch as far as Italy and Albania.

Adventure-lovers can opt for cycling, hiking, paragliding, diving and sailing, and can have plenty of fun.

Kavos, Aghios Petros, Kanoni and Benitsis, located near Corfu, are wonderful destinations that charm travelers with their beaches, coves, countryside, trees and forests. Kanoni is best known for its monastery while each of these destinations entertains travelers with innumerable restaurants, pubs and bars.

Corfu is the starting point from where tourists set out to explore the Cyclades and the Ionian Islands. It has always been a popular holiday destination loved by people of every age, culture and background.

Holidays in Corfu are ideal for those looking to stay for a short duration. A wide range of affordable flights caters to those traveling to Corfu throughout the summer months. Summer guarantees great weather, though the weather of Corfu is never very bad. Many tourists rent a car while exploring Corfu as that allows them to get around the island easily, as well as enjoy the scenic beauty to the fullest. Buses or local taxis can also serve as means of conveyance.

Corfu is a perfect getaway for those who long for great weather and love beaches. The clear waters of the sea and the lovely weather make sure that the travelers get to enjoy nature to their hearts’ content. Spending a few days on the island of Corfu is worth the experience. One will never regret the time and money spent on the trip.