Hola! I have just recently returned from my first cruise, 5 days 4 nights Singapore-Phuket-Penang-Singapore with Costa Victoria, and without a doubt, I've certainly had the time of my life. Frankly, boarding a cruise ship has been on my bucket list for the
longest time, hence you can imagine my excitement when I received the FAM trip invitation from Hwajing Travel & Tours.
#Italyatsea
Costa cruises are the first international cruise line operate homeport cruises in Asia Pacific since 2006 offering the most diverse choice of cruise holidays with unique Italian touch. The stunning Costa Victoria cruise ship is an exclusive blend of the abstract and construction craftsmanship, with
interiors of restrained elegance embellished with exquisite details and
works of art designed to reflect the spirit of Italy. Guests could experience the visual sensation of its traditional nautical look with minimalist design and high value finishes. From the impressive hall Concorde Plaza with the theme of Marine oasis, to sipping a drink or two in the Capriccio Bar while admiring the beautiful Emilio Tadini's mosaics to enjoying a relaxing dip in the soothing spa pool inspired by the splendor of Pompeii.
Upon boarding the ship, we were each given a cruise card which literally works as our
boarding card, room key and
onboard charge card. There's tons of activities and fun things to do during sea days, but here are our top picks.
Tip: Upon boarding the ship, remember to register and link your credit card to the Costa Card so that all your purchases can be billed directly to your credit card to avoid the long queue for bill settlement.
Rest & Relax
There's nothing better than chilling in the cozy and comfortable cabin. If you want to wake up to the beautiful blue ocean, make sure that you get an ocean view room or a room with its own private balcony. There is a total of 964 cabins on the ship, including 6 cabins
specially designed for disabled guests.
All the cabins are spacious,
comfortable and comes with basic amenities such as air conditioning, TV,
hairdryer,
complimentary tea making facilities, safe box and much more.
The bathroom.
Special room decoration can be arrange to surprise your loved one with the sweetest and memorable celebration. The friendly cabin steward maintain the cleanliness of our room and attend to all our specific requests such as extra pillows or any problem encountered in the cabin during our stay.
"Today" the newsletter guide to the daily programs and activities on the cruise ship. It is important to study the guide so you could plan your day in advance.
Gala Dinner
Dress up to the nines for a scrumptious Venetian Gala Dinner at Fantasia Restaurant.
Soft shell crab with sweet chili sauce topped with apple.
Perfectly grilled succulent beef steak with peppercorn sauce served with sauteed young corn with vegetables and roasted potato.
Creme Catalana
Carnival of Venice
The highlight of our cruise, the Carnival of Venice.
One of the oldest festivals held in Venice, Italy, the Carnival of
Venice is famous for its amazing and unique mask attracting approximately 3 million visitors yearly.
A celebration where
all social classes would mingle as wearing a mask allow one to hide their identity and remain anonymous.
It was certainly an outstanding evening with music, rhythm and joy, truly a fun and unique experience.
Foodie Fiesta
Another awesome thing about Costa Victoria cruise is the fact that you'll never go hungry.
With five free meals available for 24 hours serving Italian, International, halal or vegetarian cuisines, you'll be spoilt for choice. There are 5
restaurants namely Club Restaurant Magnifico, Bolero Buffet Restaurant,
La Tavernetta Pizzeria, Fantasia Restaurant and Sinfonia Restaurant
offering buffet and a la carte menu made with top quality ingredients.
Lunch at Bolero Buffet Restaurant.
Signature Lobster dish
Be sure to check out all the restaurants and also get a taste of the Signature Lobster dish and freshly made pizza.
Unwind and Rejuvenate
There is a total of 3 swimming pools and 4 jacuzzi on Costa Victoria.
Relax and unwind at the pool deck or take a dip in the jacuzzi.
There's also an indoor sea water pool located next to Pompei Fitness Centre perfect for a revitalizing dip or swim.
The indoor pool is empty when we get on the ship and it will be filled up by pumping ocean water into the pool.
Pompei Spa also offers relaxing treatments such as facial, massages, Turkish bath and even beauty services.
Work Out
Fitness enthusiast, need not worry that you'll leave your fitness regime behind when you sail.
There's nothing like spinning with sea view, this was indeed another favourite spot of mine on the ship. The Pompei gym is well equipped with the latest Technogym equipment, free weights and you could even hire a Personal Trainer.
For those who prefer outdoor, there's also a multi-purpose sports pitch or you could go for a jog on the 450m jogging track while enjoying the cool breeze and scenery.
Entertainment
The Festival theater offer exciting shows daily such as musical, Asia Rock's Sapori D' Italia, acrobatic and many more. Again, be sure to check out the 'Today' program guide for updates on the daily show.
Move and groove to an impromptu dance party, shop to your heart's content with the attractive duty free savings or you could even
try your luck in the casino. There's never a dull moment on a Costa cruise!
Insta-Worthy Photo Spots
Apart from the amazing sunrise, sunset, beautiful horizon and the blue ocean, the stunning and elegant Costa Victoria was totally instagram-worthy at every corner.
Every detail on board Costa Victoria is a delight and will take guests on a journey through the world of art.
Emillio Tadini Mosaico at Capriccio Lounge Bar
Strolling along the corridor.
Island Hopping
Phuket --> Penang --> Singapore
Get off the ship and onto island of the day! We have about 9 hours stopover in Phuket, thus a stroll along the beach and a traditional Thai massage, definitely a must.
Scrumptious local's foods with Chang beer. Cheers!
Kid's Paradise
Happy children mean relaxed parents! There are tons of fun-filled activities lined up for children too. Parents could drop off their little ones aged 3-17 at Costa's kids club, Squok Club to have some 'me' time. The best part is
kids under 13 cruise for FREE and this is applicable to all sailings.
Suspended Coffee
Last but not least, support the Suspended Coffee or caffee sospeso, a great initiative by Hwajing.
A gift of coffee to warm a heart, an act of kindness can change life, you could do good deed by buying a cup of coffee for a stranger. Pay in advance for a cup of coffee at The Grand Bar Orpheus to be given to someone who couldn't afford it.
In a nutshell, Costa Victoria was an incredible cruise experience that totally reflect the #ItalyatSea concept and
truly value for money. The entertainment was top class, love the
variety of interesting activities, attentive service staff and the shore
excursions were very well organized. There's so much to see on the Costa Victoria cruise ship! Thank you Hwajing for having us.
Good news! Now you could cruise at a fraction of the normal price with these amazing promotion from Hwajing. Hurry.... Book your cruise today and don't forget to
try your luck in the casino.
For more information, kindly log on
www.hwajing.com.my or
www.facebook.com/hwajingtravel/
Hwajing Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd (KL Headquarters)
Block N-26, 2nd Floor,
Warisan Cityview, Jalan 3/93A, Batu 2 1/2,
Jalan Cheras, 56100 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel : 03-9200 2929
Fax : 03-9283 6566
Hwajing Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd (Penang Branch)
15A, Rangoon Road
10400 Penang.
Tel : 04-229 6566
Fax : 04-229 0566
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