COSTA MAGICA

[peterfaf]

we are going on a Costa Magica cruise to Italy Spain and Africa. I read reviews that said the Magica is AWFUL....can someone add their experience and tell us about their trip.

Edit: Moved to Carnival Corporation forum. RF

[Oggy Boy]

I have not sailed on the Magica, but have sailed on some of Costa's ships. Sailing Costa in Europe has a flavor all its own. Expect a heavy International crowd (many Italians) that have different customs than Americans do. If you are expecting the same ambiance that you would get on say, a Caribbean cruise, then it might seem awful to you. If you treasure unique and different experiences, then you might well love it.

There is smoking, loud conversations, different expectations from the dining experience and different food. It would only be awful if you did not understand the difference you will experience.

Take the time to learn some Italian before your cruise and you will have a blast.

Tom

[NancyN]

Americans will definitely be in the minority on this cruise. Announcements, games and activities will be done in 5 languages (English will NOT be the first). Remember, this time around, you are the "foreigner".

With that said, I can tell you I sailed on the Costa Med (granted it was a Caribbean cruise) and had a thoroughly wonderful time. I found the food to be good, but definitely not typical American fare. I enjoyed the multi-cultural experience and found it a refreshing change (although some of the cultural differences took some getting used to).

I think if you go with the proper mindset - you will enjoy the trip. If you expect the "American cruise experience" you will be sorely disappointed.

Nancy