Hey ladies! I am finally sharing with you my most amazing Celebrity Cruise to the Mediterranean last October. I took this trip on the ship The Ascent with my partner in crime, Shauna (@chicover50), back last October. I flew United Airlines from Houston to Rome by way of Newark. Arrived in Rome early, so my room was not ready. Next time, I would definitely book an early check-in, as many hotels offer for an extra fee!

Once checked in, I took a glorious nap, then met up with Shauna for a great Margarita pizza and a delicious bottle of Italian wine, the perfect Roman welcome. I can’t wait to share my full 12-day itinerary in the Mediterranean, hitting incredible spots like Greece, Italy, and Turkey! This is my third time experiencing one of Celebrity’s game-changing Edge-Series ships, and it truly is the Grand Tour of the Ascent.

Life Aboard the Celebrity Ascent & What’s Next!

The Celebrity Cruise on The Ascent was simply spectacular! With amenities that elevate the cruise experience to an entirely new level. We loved the innovative staterooms and different levels of service like the exclusive AquaClass with its dedicated restaurant Blu (hello, clean cuisine!) and The Retreat for suite guests. The food is phenomenal, from the globally inspired Oceanview Café to high-end specialty restaurants like Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud.

You can spend your days unwinding at the customizable Spa, breaking a sweat on the running/walking track, or enjoying onboard experiences like the swimming pools and Magic Carpet, which offers views from every deck and many more. Make sure to check out the gallery of all the amazing dining and activity options.

The excitement isn’t over yet, though! I’m thrilled to announce that I was one of the first to experience and launch the brand-new ship, Celebrity Xcel, which had its inaugural sail last November 14th and 15th 2025. It Is the ultimate ship in the series! The Xcel will be sailing incredible global itineraries, including more Mediterranean journeys and stunning Caribbean routes. You can be one of the first to experience this amazing ship by searching for the Xcel itinerary that’s right for you.

Plus, I’ve got a special gift for my followers. Use my exclusive promo code SAILXCEL to receive $100 Onboard Credit when you book! Now, the real fun begins! Get ready for tons of photos, honest reviews, and all the celebrity-worthy details from the cruise itself! What part of my Mediterranean trip are you most excited to hear about: the destinations or the details of the Ascent? Let me know in the comments below!

Sail on Celebrity Cruise You’ll Never Want To Vacation Any Other Way

My recent cruise with Celebrity Cruise was such a game-changer, and why you should absolutely book your next trip with them! They don’t just offer vacations; they deliver an elevated premium experience, and I got to experience it firsthand on the gorgeous Celebrity Ascent, a ship I’m especially fond of since I was there for its inaugural launch. The Ascent is still so new, it just launched 2 years ago, and truly represents the best of Celebrity Cruise, perfectly blending the cozy, intimate feel and thoughtful service.

Day 1 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Almost Missed the Boat!

Shauna and I stored our bags, had a great breakfast at our hotel, and then walked to the Trevi Fountain. Unfortunately, they had drained the fountain so they could collect all of the coins thrown in. They do this 2 or 3 days a week. While there, we grabbed a delicious gelato and did some shopping. We both zeroed in on the cutest, colorful, artful dresses.

Sheree and Shauna in Rome eating Gelato.

On the ship at the spa stairs, wearing the dresses we purchased at a shop by the Trevi Fountain.

Now, on the way back to the hotel, somehow we got lost, and instead of walking one mile back, it was over 3 miles. That put us late leaving Rome to get to the ship port for boarding. We were the last few passengers to board. Whew! My anxiety was off the charts.

Once on board, we made sure our excursions, spa treatments, and dinner reservations were in order. After we settled into our cabin, we had a delicious dinner at Normandie Restaurant. We both enjoyed delicious fish for dinner.

Day 2 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Sea Day

We sailed eastward toward the Greek islands all night and all day. A visit to the amazing fitness center, followed by a 75-minute deep tissue massage in the top-rated spa, and sushi for lunch was exactly what we needed after a long travel day and walking over 16,000 steps in Rome.

Before dinner, we were able to squeeze in a short rest in our cabins. This night, Shauna and I enjoyed a great steak and Sea Bass at Final Cut. We decided to dress up for this dinner. After dinner, we popped into one of the ship’s boutiques and purchased some Chanel makeup that was on sale.

Day 3 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Crete

Arrived at 10 AM. Shauna and I spent the day in Crete on our own. We walked down to the wharf area. On the way, we walked by cute shops and a café. We basked in the warm sun, sitting on an ancient wall overlooking the old town of Chania. For lunch, we stopped by a quaint cafe right on the water. Perfect for people watching.

We both enjoyed the freshest Greek Salad, and I also indulged in the stuffed pickled grape leaves and a cold local lager beer. Yep, I do love a cold beer on occasion. On the way back to our shuttle, we stopped in for a delicious gelato, shopped a little, and took lots of photos. Check out the cute, handmade bucket hat we both purchased.

Day 4 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Kusadasi Port City

Located in the heart of modern-day Turkey is a nation roughly the size of Texas with 80 million people. Ephesus stands as one of the most significant archaeological marvels of the Roman Empire. After the Romans took control around 130 BC, it grew into a massive metropolitan hub, though today only about 15% of its three-layered cities have been uncovered.

The city was strategically divided into an Upper City for governance and a Lower City for social and commercial life. Visitors today can explore incredible ruins such as the 2,400-year-old marble concert hall, the massive columns of the largest temple in the Roman Empire, and the iconic Gate of Hercules, which served as a transition point from the narrow pedestrian streets to wide avenues designed for chariots.

The city’s daily life centered around the Lower Agora, a bustling trade hub where silk, spices, and jewelry, crafted by famous designers like Dimitrios, were exchanged via the nearby port. Beyond commerce, Ephesus was a spiritual and intellectual epicenter. Saint Paul preached in the Agora during his third missionary journey in 53 AD, and Saint John arrived to minister to the local Jewish population.

From its sophisticated cooling fountains and grand terrace homes to its rich history of tentmaking and rug weaving, Ephesus remains an unforgettable experience. To avoid the winter lows of 38°F or the scorching dry summers, the best times to walk these ancient streets are during the temperate spring and fall months.

After our tour, we went to lunch at Charisma, a 5-star hotel. It was a private lunch by the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. They provided toga robes (as in Roman times) or dresses for us to wear with leaf or floral head crowns. They served us 5 courses so we could sample a wide array of local favorites. We ate like kings, all decked out in our Roman-esque attire. A fun way to dine for sure.

Day 5 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Discovering Istanbul

On Day 5, our journey via Celebrity Cruise brought us to the historical heart of Istanbul, a city of profound complexity and the only one in the world that straddles two continents. Divided by the Bosphorus Strait, often mistaken for a river, the city is a geographical and cultural crossroads where 60% of the population resides on the European side and 40% on the Asian side.

Once the world’s first and largest Christian city, Istanbul has evolved into a vibrant, diverse metropolis where Muslim, Jewish, Catholic, and Christian communities coexist. The city’s layered past is evident everywhere, from the ancient roots of Constantinople and its Byzantine heritage to the ingenuity of the Romans, who constructed over 200 underground water systems 1,500 years ago.

The exploration of Istanbul’s landmarks offered a deep dive into its rich traditions and architectural splendor. We visited the Topkapi Palace, which is organized into four distinct courtyards housing everything from the royal kitchens and the world-famous Spoonmaker’s Diamond to sacred relics and vast collections of global gifts.

The city’s commercial spirit is equally legendary. The historic Grand Bazaar, established in 1461, remains a massive hub with 4,000 shops specializing in textiles, carpets, and jewelry. From the architectural magnificence of the Blue Mosque and the rebuilt Hagia Sophia to the sensory wonders of the Spice Bazaar and the repurposed Four Seasons Hotel, formerly a prison.

Every corner of Istanbul tells a story of an enduring, multifaceted civilization.

Historical Names and Modern Life

Istanbul’s ancient heritage is visible in its historical names. The city was originally known as Constantinople (sometimes referred to as “AI Constantino”), an Ancient Greek city that later served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire before its current name. In contrast to this rich history, modern life here is notably uniform; roughly 99% of the local population lives in condos or apartment buildings.

We also learned a fascinating tidbit about traditional life. In Turkish homes, people historically used rugs, cushions, and pillows instead of standard furniture, a practice rooted in comfort and communal living. Another interesting fact is that the Four Seasons Hotel in Sultanahmet was once a prison before the government leased it for conversion into a luxury hotel.

Architectural Marvels and Markets

The skyline of Istanbul is defined by its magnificent architecture, especially its mosques. The Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Camii) is an iconic structure that has been rebuilt three times due to fires, symbolizing its endurance. The Blue Mosque is widely considered the most decorated and greatest of the city’s mosques and is a must-see landmark.

We also noted another significant Mosque built in 1552. The city’s thriving economy has always been fueled by trade, continuing today in its legendary bazaars. These include the World Famous Spice Bazaar and the massive Grand Bazaar. Established in 1461, the Grand Bazaar is primarily known for jewelry and carpets and houses over 4,000 shops. Textiles remain Istanbul’s largest industry, and the Golden Horn historically served as a vital trading harbor.

Palaces and Underground Wonders

Our visit included a significant visit to the Topkapi Palace, which is structured around three main courtyards, each dedicated to different functions or exhibitions. The Second Courtyard housed the massive palace kitchens. The Third Courtyard was dedicated to treasures, containing precious items like the Spoon Maker’s Diamond, a room filled with everything golden, and a collection of gifts from all over the world. The Fourth Courtyard typically held the library, books, and ceremonial objects like candlesticks. A separate section within the palace was dedicated to showcasing Holy Relics.

Finally, we were amazed by the ancient underground water systems. The Romans built over 200 of these massive cisterns more than 1,500 years ago.

Day 6 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Istanbul, Turkey

On Day 6 in Istanbul, the city’s profound religious diversity and cultural heritage took center stage. Istanbul serves as a living tapestry of faith, housing approximately 3,000 mosques, 300 churches, and 29 synagogues. Among these, the Blue Mosque, officially the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, stands out as the most decorative with exquisite blue tiles and gold leaf. Built roughly 450 years ago, it remains a focal point for the local Muslim population, who observe the five daily prayers in spaces separated by gender.

The city is steeped in symbolic traditions, from the national tulip flower to the Turkish red that colors local identity, to an ancient 1,100-year-old monument that serves as a testament to the region’s enduring history.

Photo above: Turkish Delights, where we sampled and purchased an array of Turkish Delights, goodies, and spices. Saffron is the most popular, but pricey in my opinion. It does have so many great health benefits. I am a foodie, so I am always up for trying out local foods. I really enjoyed the grilled corn on the cob cooked on the streets by the Grand Bazaar.

The city’s legendary trade culture continues to thrive in the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. While the Grand Bazaar is split between an older indoor section and a modern outdoor area, the Spice Market remains a treasure trove for rare goods like saffron, which is valued for its restorative properties and must be stored at room temperature to maintain its potency. This commitment to heritage extends to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums; in fact, the total number of archaeological sites throughout Turkey is said to surpass those of Greece, Italy, and North Africa combined.

Our visit also offered a window into the delicate craft of rug making, where artisans use silk cocoons and intricate double-knot techniques, sometimes reaching 100 knots per square inch to create masterpieces that can be maintained with something as simple as baby shampoo.

Finally, the unique geography of the Bosphorus Strait remains the city’s most defining feature, ranging from two miles at its widest to a mere half-mile at its narrowest point. While the annual Euro-Asia Swim Competition is a celebrated event, the waterway is strictly regulated for security; visitors should note that swimming in the strait on any other day is prohibited and carries serious legal consequences.

Day 7 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Day At Sea

Day 7 and it’s a glorious Day At Sea, the perfect opportunity to slow down and truly savor the journey aboard the breathtaking Celebrity Cruise Ascent. I started my day trading in the rush of port life for total tranquility, finding my spot by the Resort Deck pool for some serious sun and ocean therapy. The views are just mesmerizing! This afternoon, it’s all about pampering, a blissful session booked at the world-class Spa called my name, followed by a calming stop at the adults-only Solarium

On this day, the goal was pure indulgence. I treated myself to some of the incredible cuisine, perhaps at the French-inspired Normandie Restaurant, before heading to the theater for a spectacular, high-tech production. From the stunning design of the ship to the impeccable service, every moment is about feeling refreshed and ready for the next adventure.

Day 8 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Santorini, Greece

I finally woke up to the most spectacular sight for Day 8, Santorini, Greece! Stepping off the Celebrity Cruise Ascent and looking up at those iconic, whitewashed villages spilling down the volcanic caldera felt like walking into a postcard. From the small marina where our tender docked, we had to either take the tram, walk, or ride a donkey up the steep terrain. The lines were so long, but Shauna and I coerced a dude to put us on our own donkey for the ride straight up the cliffs. Now that was a sight to behold. I highly recommend it if you want a lot of belly laughs.

We dedicated our morning to getting lost the best way; the winding lanes of Oia,(pronounced ee-uh ), snapping countless photos of those famous blue-domed churches and the breathtaking panoramic views.

This island is truly unique; the sheer drama of the volcanic cliffs is everywhere. My absolute must-do? Finding a local tavern for a delicious lunch and sampling the island’s unique, mineral-rich Assyrtiko wine. I hear the views from the towns of Pyrgos and Megalochori are stunning, but I’m saving my last moments for the main event, soaking in the unforgettable atmosphere as the sun dips below the Aegean, casting that famous golden glow over the caldera. Pure Greek magic!

Day 9 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Mykonos, Greece

Hello from the iconic streets of Mykonos! After the drama of Santorini’s cliffs yesterday, today is all about the charming beauty and buzzing energy of this Cycladic gem. Stepping off the Celebrity Cruise The Ascent, I was immediately drawn into the maze of whitewashed alleys, a stunning labyrinth sprinkled with pops of blue and bright jade green. It’s even more beautiful in person!

We spent the morning exploring the famous Little Venice district, watching the waves crash right up to the colorful seaside houses, and snapping photos by the majestic windmills. Beyond the picturesque lanes, this island is truly alive. For lunch, we were referred to the Pelican Cafe right on the water. It was so good, plus great people-watching. We enjoyed a traditional Greek salad and a bowl of soup.

My afternoon mission was to soak up some sun on one of those legendary sandy beaches before we dove into a delicious lunch along the water’s edge. Whether it’s the sophisticated shopping, the beautiful people, or the promise of that famous nightlife, Mykonos is definitely living up to its reputation as the most popular island! What a perfect Day 9!

Day 10 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Day At Sea

After the whirlwind of Santorini and the vibrant energy of Mykonos, Day 10 is a much-needed Day At Sea, and I am fully embracing the slow life aboard the Celebrity Cruise The Ascent! It’s all about indulgence today. I kicked off the morning with a delicious, leisurely breakfast and then retreated to the tranquil Solarium for some quiet time with a book and zero interruptions.

My agenda for the afternoon was simple, pure pampering at the Spa and maybe another lap around the incredible Rooftop Garden, but not before we toured the ship’s bridge, where we saw and learned so much about our ship, the Celebrity Cruise The Ascent. I managed to get a photo of the cute officers who were on duty.

After the sunset, we celebrated our amazing cruise with one last exquisite meal. I even tried the famous Martini Bar for a spectacular cocktail. My favorite is a dirty martini straight up, chilled with lots of olives! Taking this time to unwind, savor the incredible service, and just watch the endless ocean roll by is the perfect reset before our next adventure. Best final sea day ever!

Day 11 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Naples & Sorento, Italy

Day 11 marked the spectacular finale of our Mediterranean journey as we departed the ship in Naples, Italy, a city of 1 million people shadowed by the dramatic, active presence of Mount Vesuvius. Naples is a true historical goldmine and a UNESCO World Heritage site, where one can step into the basement of the San Lorenzo Maggiore church to discover ancient Greek ruins resting beneath Roman streets. The city is also famously the birthplace of pizza, enjoying an authentic, thin, wood-fired Margherita here is an absolute necessity, followed by local delicacies like spaghetti and dusted zeppole.

NAPLES

After exploring Naples, we traveled about an hour and 15 minutes to the picturesque town of Sorrento, located just 7 meters across from the island of Capri. Sorrento is renowned for its vibrant lemons, which are the primary ingredient in the region’s famous limoncello, while the rest of the fruit is creatively repurposed for gelato, bath gels, and more. The day would not be complete without shopping for all the leather goods that Italy is so known for.

This day perfectly blended the deep layers of Roman architecture, food, shopping, and great people watching. It was a glorious way to wind up my 12-day journey through the Mediterranean.

SORRENTO

CAUTION: Avoid drinking Limoncello on an empty stomach. Whoooa …. WOWZA! It went straight to my head

Day 12 in Celebrity Cruise ~ Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

And just like that, our incredible Celebrity Ascent journey is over in one of the most magnificent cities on earth, Rome, Italy, right where we started! Stepping off the ship near Civitavecchia, you immediately feel the immense history of this place. It truly was the center of the ancient world. These two weeks were a whirlwind of awe and culture where we soaked up history, quick stops to gaze at the ancient Colosseum, took photos at the Trevi Fountain, or felt the majesty of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican.

But let’s be honest, the other major mission is culinary! We hunted down the authentic, family-run trattoria for a final feast of perfectly prepared pasta and, of course, a huge scoop of incredible gelato or a big shot of Limoncello. Finding a little keepsake from a craftsman shop in a narrow cobblestone street is a perfect souvenir for this unforgettable 12-day Mediterranean adventure. Arrivederci!

Every one of these restaurants was incredible….. I loved the food!

Here are a few restaurants and their great dishes to try out. My favorite Raw On 5 not pictured.

Twelve incredible days, two stunning sea days, and a lifetime of memories packed between the blue domes of Santorini, the lively alleys of Mykonos, the ancient ruins of Naples, and the majestic history of Rome! Saying goodbye to the breathtaking Celebrity Cruise The Ascent near The Eternal City felt bittersweet. My camera roll was full, my stomach was happy (hello, authentic Neapolitan pizza!), and my heart was overflowing with Mediterranean magic.

This cruise wasn’t just a vacation; it was a journey through history, flavor, and pure luxury. Thank you, Celebrity Cruise, for the trip of a lifetime! Where should I set sail next? Tell me your best cruise ideas in the comments below!

Side note: Now is the time to book your fall trip to the Med. There are several itineraries that you can choose from. Go to www.celebritycruises.com to dream and manifest your next adventure.

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