Cruising can be incredibly addictive, and the Mediterranean sunshine is calling my name. This weekend, Guy and I are heading off for a week-long cruise around the Mediterranean with MSC Cruises, visiting some exciting new places for me.

We’ll fly to Barcelona to join the MSC Splendida, and hopefully, we’ll have just enough time to enjoy some tapas in the old quarter. After that, I’m looking forward to trying Bouillabaisse in Marseille, Gelato in Genoa, or an authentic Margherita pizza in Naples. Maybe I’ll have Lemon granita in Sicily or Tagine in Tunis. I’m also excited about exploring the culture and street life, ancient churches, crumbling palazzos, and Roman ruins in Pompeii and Taormina.

The MSC Splendida is said to live up to its name. It’s modern and stylish with a European flair, dispelling the myth that cruises are just for retirees. We’re expecting a cosmopolitan, European crowd and a few family groups on board since it’s half-term and kids sail free in their parents’ cabin with MSC.

With a ship that can accommodate over 3,200 guests, there should be something for everyone. When the four pools get too crowded, we’ll find a quiet corner in one of the lounges or retreat to our balcony cabin.

We’re looking forward to being well taken care of by the crew, enjoying delicious Mediterranean food, and reliving our Texas holiday with some Tex-Mex at the Santa Fe specialty restaurant. I’m hoping they serve those amazing fish tacos I had in Austin. I’ve also planned a Balinese massage on the sea day to soothe any aches from sightseeing.

Do you have any recommendations for Marseille and Genoa? Any tips for Pompeii, Taormina, and Carthage where I’ll be brushing up on my Roman history? What souvenirs should I look for in the souk in Tunis? If you’ve sailed on the MSC Splendida or with MSC Cruises, please share any tips to help us make the most of our week’s cruise.

I hope you’ll join me on a virtual voyage on the MSC Splendida from Friday, May 23 to Friday, May 28. I’ll be posting photos on all my social media channels and sharing some diary updates on the blog. Follow along with the hashtag #MSCBlogTrip and let me know any tips for the places I’ll be visiting.