National Geographic Traveler: The Mediterranean

Mediterranean expert Tim Jepson takes you on a tour of the countries of the Northern Mediterranean and Adriatic, focusing on the major cruise ports from Gibraltar to Turkey, including Barcelona, Valencia, Nice, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Genoa, Rome, Naples, Palermo, Bari, Venice, Dubrovnik, Split, Athens, and Istanbul as well as nearby towns and sites. This all-new guide features an abundance of practical info on how to get to the main ports from the ship; maps to guide you around when you're there; and original, commissioned artwork to help you appreciate what you're seeing. The travelwise section provides a sampling of places to eat and practical information about the individual countries. POPULAR TOURISM DESTINATION: According to the 2014 Travel Trends Survey, Mediterranean-European cruising is #3 on the international destinations list for the upcoming year. 2010 statistics by MedCruise News state that 162 cruise ships are actively traveling the Mediterranean, carrying just under 3.5 million passengers - for a total of 27 million nights. This number has steadily increased since. EXCITING FEATURES AND SUGGESTIONS: This guide provides a game plan for both cruising and land visitors, with a focus on active port city experiences that give travellers behind-the-scenes possibilities; insider tips from National Geographic photographers, writers, and experts; not-to-be-missed lists; and a practical introduction. VITAL AND CONTEMPARY DESIGN: Design is simple and open with multiple access points. Includes popular walking tours; features on contemporary life, history, and culture. PROVIDES INFORMATION NOT AVAILABLE ON INTERNET: The guides go beyond Internet basics to provide the best information on the country and its culture in one easily accessible place, offering travellers the most authentic and meaningful experience at each destination.