9 Nights 11 Days Western Mediterranean Cruise: Days 1-2 Itinerary via Milan to Savona Cruise Port
Milan The journey for our 9-night, 11-day Western Mediterranean cruise began with long hours of travel. As this was my first package tour, I started with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Days 1 and 2 of the itinerary focused on departure preparations at Incheon Airport and the transfer via Milan to the Savona cruise terminal. (Ms. Lee Ji-in, our tour escort from Lotte Tour, was incredibly kind! I won’t forget her.)
I arrived early for the 10 AM meeting time and decided to use the lounge. After quickly completing the check-in process, I entered the lounge, but I was disappointed that I couldn’t use other lounges. Nevertheless, after a hearty meal at the lounge and some window shopping at the duty-free stores, it was soon time to board the plane.
I had only slept a little to prepare for the long 12-hour flight. Once I boarded the plane, which was delayed by about 30 minutes, sleepiness washed over me. The in-flight meal, served about an hour after takeoff, was bibimbap, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
After dozing off for a while, a snack was served, but it was ordinary. Soon after, the second meal was provided. Since I had been sitting for so long, my digestion wasn’t great, so I only ate a little fruit and left most of it. My mother had the Bulgogi set meal.
Arrival at Milan Malpensa Airport and Transfer to Hotel
Milan Milan Arriving at Milan Malpensa Airport, I couldn’t quite believe I had entered Europe for the first time. Feeling tired and a slight stomach ache, I took a tourist bus to the Novotel Milano Malpensa Aeroporto, about a 15-minute ride away.
Near the hotel, there was a supermarket called ‘coop’ that stayed open late, so I took a quick look. Since it was the first day, I didn’t buy anything, but I got to experience the self-checkout system.
As soon as I entered the room, I experienced culture shock. The manual bidet next to the toilet and the bidet towel were unfamiliar, but there was also a swimming pool, which I only photographed through the window.
The next morning, my previous meal hadn’t been fully digested, so I had a simple breakfast.
Transfer to Savona Cruise Terminal
After 8 PM, I put on my receiver and boarded the bus. I intended to sleep, as they said it would take about 3 hours to reach the Savona terminal, but the escort’s continuous explanations kept me awake, making me even more tired. I was impressed by the escort who provided various information without a break for two hours.
At the rest stop ‘Autogrill Stura Ovest’ we visited during the journey, I had a bewildering experience with a strong ammonia smell and the lack of toilet seat covers. I realized I lacked sufficient prior information about traveling in Europe.
Boarding the Costa Smeralda and First Evening
Upon arriving at the Savona terminal, I completed the boarding procedures. I was disappointed because people gathered around when I tried to take a photo in front of the palm trees.
As soon as I boarded, I had dinner before unpacking my luggage. The tomato pasta was delicious, and the meat dish felt similar to a Korean buffet.
The balcony room was fantastic. The bed was well-positioned, and above all, the view of the sea was breathtaking. There was a swimming pool on the same floor, and the elevator was close by, making it convenient. This was the moment I truly felt I was on a European trip.
With time left until departure, I disembarked and looked around. There wasn’t much to see near the terminal, which was a bit disappointing, but as I browsed the souvenir shops, I regretted not having studied more about wine beforehand.
Seeking refuge from the hot sun, I took a short break at a nearby cafe, enjoying a cold beer. After waving goodbye to the departing ship and completing the emergency preparedness drill, it was already time for dinner.
I enjoyed the evening course meal at the best table with a window view. The pre-meal bread was delicious, though served late, and I could choose a different menu each day. Initially, I found some dishes didn’t suit my taste and left a lot, but as I gradually adapted, I began to enjoy all the menu items.
Up to the second day, the focus was on travel and adjusting to the cruise without any specific sightseeing. However, I was filled with anticipation for the journey that lay ahead.
