Conde Nast Traveler – Reader’s Choice Awards – 2018 Gold List

Take Wind Star Spanish Symphony in 2020 for the best vacation of your life! I wouldn’t procrastinate. This is a celebration of life… yours and the beauty of Spain

We were lucky to sail in 2018 on Star Pride’s Spanish Serenade. The itinerary is the same. Boasting some of the most fascinating sites and tours.

Poised as if to kiss the continent of Africa, Andalusia hugs the southern coast of Spain and embraces cultural influences from both sides of the strait. This is the birthplace of Don Juan and Carmen, evening paseos by women in lace mantillas, cape-twirling matadors. In short, it is quintessential Spain. The beaches of the Costa del Sol are legendary. And behind lie equally magnificent mountain ranges sheltering picturesque “white villages.” Here you won’t find cookie-cutter castles, but amazing cultural amalgams like the Alhambra and Alcázar. On your elegant ship, you will cruise past larger ships right to the heart of old towns and to the steps of friendly bodegas.

This is the ultimate cruise for travelers who want an epic journey along the coast of Spain beginning in Barcelona and ending in one, if not the most beautiful cities in the world, known as the navigation epicenter, Lisbon Portugal. With under 312 passengers the elegant Wind Surf is better than a private yacht.

There’s something magical about being out at sea. It’s all about luxury, adventures, service, cuisine and an extremely dedicated staff that welcomes you. Once you have experienced a Windstar sailing your own cruise critic inclination will tell you there is no better choice.

With a staff-to-guest ratio of 1-to-11/2 we were pampered day and night in our suite. We had a private terrace and balcony secluded from the view of other suites, a separate living area, a walk-in-closet and a large marble bathroom including a sunken tub, his and her sinks, and a separate powder bath for more privacy.

Good to know facts for your upcoming voyage and visit to Spain. Windstar is revamping three of its ships including Star Pride. The project will launch in 2020 and include larger and more impressive suites, an infinity pool, a true fitness center and spa and new dining spaces. The three ships are being cut in half to allow installation of a new section, but the total capacity of the expanded  floor plans remain intimate, with only 312 guests each. Balcony suites from $3,299… and if you want more, take the plunge on board and book the Wind Surf Bridge Suite at $7,199 per person.

Best Place To Stay in Lisbon

Olissippo Lapa Palace– One of the best Leading Hotels in the World. Known for its incredible architecture, the Palace is a resort within a city, an urban oasis tucked away on a hilltop in one of Lisbon’s most exclusive neighborhoods.

Hard to pass up the fresh grilled sardines at tasca bars. At night, under a full moon, the world of music and dance becomes a harmonic convergence.

Windstar’s Spanish Symphony is the ultimate way to enjoy Spain. The trip includes the best of Picasso and historic landmarks throughout the eight day adventure.

 

 

Best taste-Do not miss a tasting of the best (Rua de Belém 84-92) pastry’s in the world.

Wind Surf Provides The Best Culinary Options

What a perfect pairing! The James Beard Foundation has partnered with Windstar to emphasize the culinary traditions of the master chef. Guests experience a cornucopia of great, freshly caught fish, organic vegetables and salads, incredible artisanal baked goods and deserts.

Here are some of the wonderful sights and tastes you will experience on Wind Surf Spanish Symphony

Cadiz and a tour of the famous Jerez & Sherry Cellars. Wander through the caves and discover the secrets of Tio Pepe and why the winery remains one of the finest brands in the world.

 

Málaga, is on the shores of Costa del Sol, was my favorite excursion. We visited the most comprehensive collection of Picasso’s work at the Museo Picasso in celebration of 100th year  of his life and work.

Almeria(Granada), is a beautiful part of Spain. A breathtaking tour and drive though the Andalusian countryside to the magnificent UNESCO site and visit to the Alhambra Palace is a once in a lifetime experience. The stunning Moorish architecture reveals stone-cast latticework in precise detail. Each area of the palace and its verdant gardens offers glimpses of timeless beauty and remarkable workmanship.

Barcelona is where you discover the Catalan influence and the remarkable architecture of Antoni Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia Cathedral with its eight decorative spires towering hundreds of feet into the heavenly sky.

 

Where to stay in Barcelona:

OhLa Hotel. Great location. Amazing art and architecture. Fantastic food and service. And the Best Pool Scene and Bar in the city. Best time after 7PM.

Hotel Arts was voted one of the Top Hotels in Barcelona 2018 Travel & Leisure. A must see! Magnificent in its modernity. Beautiful suites overlooking the shoreline and studded gem-colored lights at night. The Best Bar in the world. The Liquid Journey by Diego Baud is an experience you must have.

Enjoy the beauty of Spain aboard Wind Surf knowing that Windstar is the best boutique cruise experience in the world.

 Star Pride- Our ship in 2018

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