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4 sun-soaked spots to make your friends back home jealous
Sponsored by Norwegian Cruise Line
By Cameron Bayley
Hear that? It’s the sound of Aussies throwing their sunscreen and swimmers into their suitcases to forgo wintry skies for sunnier parts of the globe.
Many are also choosing to thaw out on the way, with cruise numbers soaring. Companies like Norwegian Cruise Line – which recently unveiled the all-new Norwegian Viva – are seeing a big uptake in those taking advantage of multiple summery stops. With just one check-in, plus plenty of time to catch some rays on board, it’s the perfect way to leave all worries behind.
Cruises are on the rise with European summer fast approaching.Credit: iStock
So, if you want to ditch the downpours and join the warm weather crowd, allow us to present four sun-soaked locales that will make everyone back here very jealous. These are the spots where spectacular sights, selfies and sunset dining are waiting.
The little gem: Valletta, Malta
Fun in the sun: It may not be a sprawling capital city, but Valletta’s appeal is precisely that. Perched on a hill between two harbours, it’s the perfect place to while away a summer’s day, wandering between commanding 16th-century Baroque buildings, stopping to rest in enchanting piazzas, and taking in the impressive Co-Cathedral of St John.
Post a selfie from: The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer the best views of Malta, with a breathtaking panoramic vista over the Grand Harbour. You’ll also want to check out the lift, a modern structure which whisks you up at lightning speed.
Sip and snack on: Among the wine bars in Valletta, you’ll often find bajtra, a liqueur made from prickly pears which can be sipped on its own or in a scrumptious cocktail. Rustic fare comes into its own in Valletta, with delectable morsels, such as bigilla (a dip made from broad beans) and ricotta-filled pastizzi, something to savour.
Explore the enchanting atmosphere of Malta’s capital Valletta.Credit: iStock
The iconic getaway: Santorini, Greek Isles
Fun in the sun: Santorini means beaches, beaches and more beaches. Its stunning white sands and crystalline waters are picture-postcard perfect. There’s something glamorous about this A-list destination, and you’ll feel like a movie star as you set yourself up along the shore, ready for an afternoon of people watching, flicking through that guilty-pleasure holiday read and cooling off in the sky-blue sea.
Post a selfie from: The village of Oia offers plenty of spots to capture the iconic juxtaposition of Santorini’s white-washed buildings with the cerulean domes of its churches, combined with the blue of the Aegean.
Sip and snack on: Ouzo, of course. Do it the classic way, added to cold water to activate the anise flavour. To nibble, you can’t go past saganaki, the fried cheese dish that melts in your mouth. Delish!
Santorini’s stunning vistas are picture-postcard perfect.Credit: iStock
The romantic interlude: Dubrovnik, Croatia
Fun in the sun: Lose yourself in this medieval city, taking your loved one by the hand as you meander marble streets, and head to the Old Town where you’ll find yourself in the very location of the Game of Thrones′ fictional King’s Landing, or take a coach along the riviera to the spellbinding seaside town of Cavtat.
Post a selfie from: The Walls. These ancient structures circle Dubrovnik, offering envy-inducing vistas and providing the perfect setting for a plethora of photos.
Sip and snack on: Seek out some rozulin, a rose-flavoured spirit that Dubrovnik is known for, which is ideally matched with a setting sunset and oysters! Farmed in the region, they’re a true Dubrovnik staple.
Dubrovnik’s medieval architecture and lively culture makes it a must-see.Credit: iStock
The all-in-one: Lisbon, Portugal
Fun in the sun: Lisbon has everything. Think beautiful beaches along the coast and quaint laneways where you’ll find small bars, restaurants and adorable shops. Relax in expansive green spaces like Monsanto Park and get a culture fix at galleries such as the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, the futuristic exhibition space which opened in 2016.
Post a selfie from: Either step aboard the Bica funicular or take a snap from the side of one of Lisbon’s colourful streets as she glides past. This delightful piece of public transport was built in 1892, and climbs one of the city’s steepest hills (another reason to take a ride).
Sip and snack on: Leisurely imbibe some ginja – a liqueur made from sour cherries – as you recline in one of Lisbon’s many rooftop bars. To munch, sardines. A taste sensation in Portugal, these salty snacks are taken to a new level in the region.
Lisbon has something for everyone, with beaches, bars and restaurants aplenty.Credit: iStock
A new way to see it all: Sailing on Norwegian Viva
Visiting these destinations and many others, and making her debut in the Mediterranean this year, is Norwegian Viva, the latest addition to Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet and setting a thrilling new benchmark – Prima Class – as it offers an on-board experience like no other.
Sun lovers will relish the fact that Prima Class has the most outdoor deck space of any new contemporary ship, making it the best way to make your way around the Mediterranean. On top of that, find your inner zen at one of the peaceful infinity pools, have a blast on the incredible three-level racetrack, enjoy truly divine dining, and put your feet up in your stunning stateroom.
If you’re dreaming of following the sun, Norwegian Viva is the only way.
To find out more about Norwegian Cruise Line’s sun-filled itineraries visit ncl.com, call 1300 255 200 or contact your travel agent
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