Sleep, TMD, & Technology in the Modern-Day Comprehensive Dental Practice

Barcelona, Spain - Get ready to be swept away by the vibrant spirit of Barcelona, the perfect pre-cruise immersion into European life and culture. Arrive two or three days early to truly immerse yourself in this Catalan jewel. In Barcelona, centuries of history mix harmoniously with stunning Modernista flair, where even a causal stroll provides a constantly renewing feast for the eyes. For an awe-inspiring example, visit the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí's basilica – an architectural masterpiece you'll never forget (but book your tickets well in advance, it’s as popular as it deserves to be). Then, picture yourself strolling down the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, marveling at the whimsical façades of Gaudí’s Casa Batlló or Casa Milà (La Pedrera), architectural wonders that seem sprung from a dream.

And don't miss the chance to lose yourself in the charming labyrinthine alleys of the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), discovering hidden plazas and the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral along with abundant opportunities for shopping of all sorts. For a true taste of local life, dive into the sensory explosion of their food markets; try Santa Caterina near the Cathedral or Mercado de La Boqueria, right off of Las Ramblas.

Or perhaps spend a day exploring the trendy and artistic El Born district. Start the day with coffee at one of it's many charming cafes and then enjoy one of the largest and best collections of Picasso's art at Museau Picasso. And just around the corner, you can see a a great collection of contemporary, figurative (i.e not abstract) painting and sculpture, housed at the European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM). This is also one of the best parts of town for tapas, so stop in to share some tapas with your companions or visit a pinxtos bar and collect some toothpicks (you'll understand when you're there). To wind up your day in El Born, stop by the Palau Dalmases for a stunning, flamenco performance.

So, stay for a day or three in the Gothic Quarter or near Plaça de Catalunya and really get a feel for what makes Barcelona one of the world's great cities. Partly it's the result of the "accidents" of its history and present: as the regional capital of Spain's prosperous Catalunya region, Barcelona has a "flavor" that is a bit of a mix between Spanish and French (it's located quite close to the French border). Yes, you can practice your Spanish here - it attracts Spaniards from throughout the country - but you'll also see and hear Catalan with it's own charm. You won't regret your time here.

Don't worry about getting around; Barcelona is wonderfully accessible! Arriving at El Prat Airport (BCN), you can easily reach the city center via the convenient Aerobus or a taxi. And, while the city is very walkable, it's also extensive so don't be afraid to make use of the city's efficient Metro system makes exploring a joy (consider an Hola Barcelona Travel Card or simply use your contactless payment!). Choosing a hotel in areas like the Gothic Quarter, El Born, or near Plaça de Catalunya offers a fantastic base for exploration. When it's time to embark, a taxi or the Portbus (T3) will take you smoothly from near the Columbus Monument to your ship at Moll Adossat, ensuring a relaxed start to your cruise, your heart already full of Barcelona’s magic.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Valletta, Malta - Tiny Malta abounds in forts and temples. In Valletta, wander through the ornate Grand Master's Palace of the Knights of St. John. Within the thick walls of Medina, the Silent City (no cars), visit the serene Baroque cathedral.

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey - The UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ephesus impress even those familiar with the world's other ancient cities. Though excavations have been underway for 150 years, only 20 percent of the city has been uncovered. Check out the the Celsus Library — built in 117 A.D., the site is made up of towering columns highlighted by the statue of the goddess of wisdom. Cruises to Ephesus will give you a taste of Turkish life by strolling the seafront promenade and the bustling city center. Walk Marble Street, paved with actual marble slabs, which takes you from downtown to the Temple of Artemis — you can still see one lone remaining column from this wonder of the ancient world.

Mykonos, Greece - For pure Mediterranean pizzazz, Mykonos can't be beat. Designer boutiques and beautifully bronzed Greek gods and goddesses lie on Mykonos' beaches. The city's five famouse white churches look down on it all in oblivious serenity.

Santorini, Greece - Here on the island of Santorini, you'll find a classic Greek seascape‐whitewashed houses accented by sea-blue roofs. This is a treasure trove for both professional and amateur archeology buffs, with sites that include tombs that date back to the 9th century and the sanctuary of Apollo.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece - Your cruise concludes in Piraeus, the gateway to Athens, but this should not be seen as an end—rather, it is an invitation. As the capital of Greece and one of Europe’s most bustling cities, Athens is powered by 5,000 years of history. While your journey at sea may be over, the grand finale of your adventure awaits in the very cradle of Western civilization. After days of focused learning and professional enrichment, allow yourself the time to decompress and immerse your senses in a city where ancient legacy and vibrant modernity exist in a brilliant, dynamic dialogue. At night, the city of Athens glows from afar, light reflecting off the ancient ruins. Today travelers flock from around the world to experience its history. After all, the art, theatre, architecture, and philosophy of Athens had ripple effects through the fabric of entire civilizations. To depart immediately would be to read the last chapter of a great novel without savoring the epilogue. We encourage you to extend your stay for two to three days to truly connect with this monumental city. **A Suggested Post-Cruise Itinerary:** **Day 1: The Classical Heartland** After disembarking and settling into your hotel, your first destination is non-negotiable: the Acropolis. It is best to pre-book tickets to ascend this sacred rock early, avoiding the peak sun and crowds. Standing before the Parthenon, the Erechtheion with its iconic Caryatids, and the grand Propylaea gateway is a profound experience—a tangible connection to the minds of Pericles, Socrates, and Plato. This isn't just a ruin; it's the birthplace of democracy and Western philosophy. Following your descent, seek refuge and further enlightenment in the magnificent Acropolis Museum. This architectural marvel of glass and concrete provides a stunningly curated home for the treasures unearthed from the hill above. Walk across glass floors revealing the ancient neighborhood below as you admire the original Caryatids and the breathtaking Parthenon Marbles gallery, which offers a panoramic view back toward the temple itself. For lunch, wander into the Plaka, the city's oldest neighborhood. Its labyrinthine, bougainvillea-draped lanes are filled with charming tavernas offering authentic Greek cuisine, perfect for a leisurely meal and your first real taste of Athenian life. **Day 2: Ancient Life and Modern Rhythms** Begin your day at the Ancient Agora, the sprawling marketplace and civic center that was the true heart of ancient Athenian life. Here, you can walk the same paths as the great philosophers, stand in the meticulously restored Stoa of Attalos, and admire the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. It’s a powerful lesson in the foundations of commerce, law, and community. In the afternoon, dive into the city's modern pulse. Explore the Monastiraki Flea Market, a vibrant and chaotic bazaar where you can find everything from antiques and leather goods to handmade jewelry. For a more refined shopping experience, the upscale district of Kolonaki offers chic boutiques from Greek and international designers. As evening approaches, make your way to the Psiri district. Once an industrial area, it is now the bohemian heart of Athens, buzzing with street art, independent galleries, artisan workshops, and some of the city's most innovative restaurants and cocktail bars. It’s the perfect place to witness the creative energy of contemporary Athens. **Day 3: Deeper Dives or a Coastal Escape** Depending on your energy and interests, your final day offers a choice. For the history aficionado, a visit to the National Archaeological Museum is essential. It houses an unparalleled collection of Greek antiquities, including the stunning gold Mask of Agamemnon and the mysterious Antikythera Mechanism, considered the world's first analog computer. Alternatively, if you crave a final dose of the Aegean, take a taxi or tram down the Athens Riviera. In coastal suburbs like Glyfada or Vouliagmeni, you can enjoy a sophisticated seaside lunch, relax at a stylish beach club, or take a dip in the therapeutic waters of Lake Vouliagmeni. It’s a wonderfully restorative way to spend your last day before heading home, offering a glimpse of how modern Athenians escape the city. **Dining and Practicalities** Athenian cuisine is a journey in itself. Move beyond the stereotypes and seek out restaurants serving modern Greek gastronomy. Enjoy fresh-caught octopus, locally sourced lamb, and an array of cheeses and olive oils. Be sure to sample regional wines, particularly the crisp Assyrtiko from Santorini. The simple ritual of a mid-afternoon *freddo espresso* is a cultural experience you won't want to miss. From the port of Piraeus, the city center is easily accessible via a direct and efficient metro line or a 25-30 minute taxi ride. For your departure, Athens International Airport (ATH) is well-connected to the city by metro, a 24/7 express bus service, and plentiful taxis. An extended stay is not a logistical challenge, but a seamless and rewarding opportunity.