My XO Adventures Presents Barcelona.. Like A Virgin

8 DAYS, 7 NIGHTS | October 10-17, 2021

Virgin Voyages has set out to create a completely new kind of holiday at sea. Our Sailors are not interested in a traditional cruise. They may never have considered cruising at all OR they might have tried it but are looking for something different.  

They want an experience designed for adults that feels luxe.  But that doesn't mean marble for miles, formal nights or butlers with white gloves. They love high design, cool vibes, and great restaurants. They seek out one-of-a-kind experiences balancing indulgence with a healthy dose of wellness. They delight in rock star service from interesting, authentic people. They don't want to think about how much $ everything adds up to while on holiday.  Abbreviated versions of theater shows or seeing general city highlights from the seat of a coach is not for them.
They want to Stray The Course.  

TBH, not everyone will like what we do.  And that's OK. But many people will love it and that's who we need your help to find.  Are you in? 

Join our group of Sailors Starting with an optional 3 night Stray the Course Stay at the Axel Hotel with Included Excursions of Barcelona, a Day in Sitges and more.

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DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: Depart from BARCELONA

​Depart from Barcelona on the Beautiful           Valiant Lady at 6 PM

THERE’S A STORY THAT ONE OF THE KINGS OF CATALONIA  had a lisp so bad, he said “Ibitha” instead of “Ibiza” and “Barthelona” instead of “Barcelona.” To avoid offending him, the people of the area started pronouncing their words the same way. Although the story is probably just a myth, it’s still a good one to perhaps partially explain the striking Catalonian accent you’ll encounter when visiting Barcelona, the capital of the region.

Beautiful Barcelona is the second-largest metropolis in Spain and a world class city, vibrant, full of history and a must see on any European itinerary. You may hear people say that Barcelona doesn’t feel like the rest of Spain, and this is true—partly because the area is an autonomous region in the country, one in which the Catalonians seem to have created their own version of Iberia with their own language and culture. There’s a vibe that gives the city its own identity.

Las Ramblas is a long colonnade that stretches from a colossal Christopher Columbus statue near the port, to Plaça de Catalunya, or Catalan Square, near the center of town. This pedestrianized street is full of restaurants, flower stalls, performing artists, souvenir shops and is a great place to stroll, buy local goods or simply people watch. It passes through the Gothic Quarter, home to historical streets and ancient beautiful architecture. Nearby is the Barcelona Market, which has exquisite displays of food and drinks. Marzipan, seafood, fruits, chocolates, olives and local culinary wonders line the aisles. You can sip fresh juices, sample octopus salad, try a spinach empanada or just get one of everything.

DAY 2:  Arrive at Toulon, France

Today we dock in beautiful Toulon France.  The city was built on the banks of the Mediterranean. Sheltered by limestone cliffs, its position allowed for the building of many ports. It is the warmest and most sunny city in France with a subtropical climate.​
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Toulon offers visitors breathtaking views and a rich cultural life and with its architectural heritage, you can visit and admire many edifices, such as the market on the Cours Lafayette
the 18th century Saint Louis Church the remarkable Three Dolphin fountain built in 1780
the National Marine Museum the Sainte-Marie Cathedral the Opera the 16th century Royal Tower.

DAY 3: Marina di Carrara, Italy

We dock in Marina di Carrara Italy
at 8 AM and depart at 8 PM

During the Renaissance, sculptors made the Apuan Alps famous. “The more the marble wastes, the more the statue grows,” wrote Michelangelo Buonarroti. The Renaissance master knew a thing or two about the marble quarries near Carrara, where he traveled to select raw materials for his famous Pietà and other sculptures.

Every piece of Carrara marble was special and specific to each of Michelangelo’s projects. The block used for Michelangelo’s famous David had languished in the work yard of Florence cathedral for forty years before he tackled it; legend holds that the artist had in mind one of the hulking Carrara stonecutters as the physical model for Il Gigante. Michelangelo wrote that he dreamt of one day carving another colossus like the David—this time using an entire mountain of marble near Carrara, a kind of Renaissance Mount Rushmore—that would overlook the sea.

A visit to the museum provides an informative overview of the history of Carrara and its famous marble. The video is worthwhile, especially if you are not taking a separate tour of the quarries. You can also view several hundred works of marble sculpture from Carrara and around the world. If you want to leave with a clearer idea of what authentic Carrara marble looks like compared to other types of marble in the world, the museum is a great place to start.

Day 4: Ajaccio, France

Arrive 8:00 AM Depart 6:00 PM

Surrounded by a fantastic mountain range, Ajaccio is an elegant and sunny city, renowned for its long welcoming tradition. From the top of its citadel, it has preserved its bay which is one of the most beautiful in the world.  Strolling the lanes of the old town, you will discover its Napoleonic heritage, its prestigious museums, its daily market boasting so many flavours.

The food Is some of the best and the markets are overflowing with tasty treats! Last but not least, the Ajaccian art of living will confirm your impression that the Sun also shines in the very heart of its inhabitants and will make your stay unforgettable.


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Day 5: Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy

Arrive at 9:00 Am and Depart at 6:00 PM

Cagliari, founded by Phoenicians, is located on the southern end of the island. Often referred to as the "City of the Sun", Cagliari has some interesting medieval architecture and  archaeological wonders left behind by different cultures. 

Besides its crystal-clear sea and one of the most beautiful and longest beaches in the Mediterranean, Cagliari offers an unspoiled natural environment consisting of lagoons, bird sanctuaries, and wildlife reserves which are unique in Europe. 

And yes, of course the pastries and food of Cagliari aren't half bad either. 

Day 6 & 7: IBIZA, SPAIN

Arrive at 6:00 PM and Depart at 6PM Next Day

Though Ibiza has long been known for it's fun and sun hedonistic ways, a trip to the island is not all about the sultry clubs and night raves. 

This Spanish Island Is one of the hottest premier party destinations in all of Europe. Ibiza Town is a hotbed of late night revelry. The municipality is home to the world famous clubs Pacha and Amnesia, which share quant cobblestone streets with more traditional attractions such as Santa Maria d'Eivissa Cathedral. 

San Antoni Is the real clubbing capital, though. The so-called Sunset Strip is known for its vibrant clubs, but sophisticated alternatives as well. All the while having exquisite sunset views. 

Ibiza has reconnected with Its hippie roots and now sports more laid back party scenes and burgeoning art scene. For those of you wanting to kick back, Ibiza does offer attractive alternatives, such as limpid waters and alluring coves along with an abundance of picturesque towns and villages. 

Day 8: Barcelona Spain

​Today we arrive at 6:30 AM where you can begin your return home or extend your trip with one of My XO Adventures outstanding and memorable offerings. Either way, we're honored and happy to have been your host on this amazing journey!

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