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v i k i n g c r u i s e s . c o m . a u 31 Our guide highlighted the city's many historic treasures, including the two 17th-century fortresses dominating the old port, and the picturesque quay. In the city centre, I purchased the triple-milled scented soaps the town is famed for, and happily settled in a café for a classic Bouillabaisse, the most famous seafood dish in France, followed by a glass of pastis – a local beverage made from aniseed and spice. Back on the boat, I enjoyed an indulgent 80-minute Swedish massage, which had me so relaxed I curled up in my cabin and enjoyed room service and an in-house movie, before the gentle rocking of the ship leaving port lulled me into a deep sleep. MAGNIFICENT MONTE CARLO Arriving in Monte Carlo early Sunday morning, I found the city stylish, quiet and pristine. Walking along the avenues and boulevards, there was a sense of stepping back in time to an era of old glamour and elegance. Around midday, I happened across Shangri La on Rue Princess Caroline, a cosy restaurant where I enjoyed a salad overflowing with fresh tomatoes and other plant-based spoils of the Mediterranean. After lunch, I sauntered back to the ship, via the harbour lined with luxury yachts, booked myself another massage, before dining that evening at e Restaurant, which perfectly capped off a beautiful day. FABULOUS FLORENCE Here, I chose the 'Florence on Your Own' excursion. e sights, smells and warmth of this historic city's residents are something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. A fellow travel writer had recommended an 'in-the- know' restaurant, Vini e Vecchi Sapori Di Costantini, where I lunched on a magnificent bowl of creamy pasta, with a glass of their light and fruity house red. After lunch, I shopped for scarves and jewellery, before heading back to the ship in time for a five- course degustation at e Chef 's table, with the ship's captain, plus a few other select guests. e conversation flowed as beautifully as the wine and each course was reflective of the region, featuring mellow cheeses and fresh, seasonal produce. Vallon des Auffes War Memorial, Marseille Marseille's famous seafood Courthouse Building, Monte Carlo Florence Cathedral