Getting on/off motorcoach. Walking between 2 and 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestones, some steps; periods of standing up to 1 hour at a time. Embarkation. Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
In the Terrace Café or on the Lido Deck in nice weather.
After checking out of the hotel, we will board our motorcoach, and, led by a local expert, continue our Lisbon exploration by learning about the old decorative art of ceramic tiles at the Portuguese National Tile Museum, housed at the former Madre de Deus Convent. Late morning, we embark the Aegean Odyssey. After completing boarding procedures and getting your cabin, take some time to unpack, freshen up, and relax. Then begin to become familiar with this comfortable ship that will be our floating home for the duration of the program. The ship’s friendly and courteous staff are scrupulous about hygiene and you will find numerous dispensers with hand sanitizer we are encouraged to use. Along with everyone on board, we will meet at muster stations when called for the ship’s safety drill.
In the Terrace Café.
Free time aboard the ship to explore and do what interests you most. During succeeding evenings aboard ship, there will be activities to choose from such as a guest speaker, a performance by talented musicians, and opportunities for interaction with fellow Road Scholars. Please note that lecture times and dates may vary due to time in port. Check your briefing memo for the most up to date lecture schedule. There is also a well-stocked library with daily newspapers received via satellite. Each evening, a briefing memo/daily journal will be placed in our cabins with highlights of the next day’s activities. Most mornings will begin with a group stretch session. On each full day of the program, we will gather for an informal “port talk” about what’s ahead. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. In most ports, we will have shuttle busses, or tender boats, running from/to the ship during the day for your convenience if you wish to explore independently. The extent and duration of elective walking and other free time activities are always dependent on personal choice.
You may choose either the Marco Polo Restaurant that serves a variety of á là carte items or the Terrace Café with its buffet.
At leisure. Enjoy activities aboard ship, spend time with fellow Road Scholars, and be sure to check the briefing memo/daily bulletin placed in our cabins with highlights for tomorrow.
