The medium trip

Zhang Minwei

Title: Cruise department manager of Beijing UTour International Travel Service

Cruise: Seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Ship: Grandeur of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Cost: From 6,965 yuan

Launched in 1996, the 74,000-ton Grandeur of the Seas is a whopping 280-meters long. The liner is decked out with a spa, six whirlpools, outdoor jogging track and a selection of bars and restaurants.

Mid-ship, visitors will find a seven-story space with glass lifts that overlook the sea. At the top is the sun-filled Viking Lounge, which enjoys 360-degree views of the sea. Out on deck there is a swimming pool with whirlpools, a rock-climbing wall, sports courts and a solarium with a retractable glass dome.

The Grandeur of the Seas can hold up to 2,446 passengers, all of which get to eat at the dining room and not at alternative restaurants, as is the case with most newer ships.

"This was my first time to stay in an inside cabin, but it was fine," Zhang said. "The only thing I didn't really like was not knowing if it was dark outside or what the weather was doing."

One of the best things about the seven-night cruise is the seemingly endless ports of call. Departing from Spain's Palma De Mallorca, the liners visits Cannes in France, La Spezia and Palermo in Italy, and then Palma in Majorca.

"There are relatively few Chinese travelers on this ship, so Chinese visitors should equip themselves with basic English," Zhang said. "The Mediterranean sea was intoxicating, peaceful and calm, like an immense duvet."

Zhang said Asian and Mediterranean cruises are distinct in color and smell.

"The postcard scenes on this cruise will make you feel as if you have been swallowed by a glossy photo. It is a heaven for shutterbugs," she said.

For smooth sailing, visas should be acquired before the cruise begins. Currency exchange is available onboard and rates are subject to change without notice.