Dangerous Cruise Ports

[Ofinn]

In June, we just came back from a cruise that stopped in Kusadasi, Turkey. It was our favorite port and tour. We went to Ephesus which was spectacular. So glad we had the opportunity to visit.

During this recent trip, we traveled to 6 countries by sea and land. We interacted with a lot of different people from other countries. Many folks from outside of the U.S. are just as anxious/nervous about traveling to the US due to the amount of incidents we've had here.

So maybe that posted article should include a warning about the U.S. as a dangerous port.

There are rumors Carnival may pull out of Turkey, but I haven't recieved anything official. Im really hoping we get to see ephesus.
Crime, violence, and murders occur in every big city on a daily basis. We might as well never leave the house.
There are parts of Mexico and South America I wouldnt go to because of the drug cartels and violence. The police are just as corrupt too.

 

[Hundredacre]

Celebrity has pulled out of Istanbul

 

[gruffudd242]

Right now I would avoid Turkey. I would not be surprised if more cruise lines don't pull out of there in the near future. For reference here is the current state department travel advisory updated yesterday: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/turkey-travel-warning.html

 

[YayDisney]

That's the cruise. Really looking forward to spending time in Venice again, and hitting a bunch of Greek Islands for the first time.

Yes, we did Athens, Corfu and somewhere else I can't remember. That's a beautiful cruise. I hope you are able to go to Ephesus after all. I agree with the PP, it really is breathtaking - We did an all day tour where they also take you to the house of the Virgin Mary and some other really great spots. Have a good time no matter where you stop!

 

[elvispursley]

Turkey was a stop I really wanted to do on a cruise and hope that the turmoil settles enough that DCL will resume sailing there.

 

[DVC-Don]

Couple of years ago one of our dining partners on the Fantasy was a recently retired FBI agent who last posting was to southern California. He advised us to avoid any port in Mexico.

 

[disneyholic family]

this is hardly a comprehensive list...

 

[Shanti]

Couple of years ago one of our dining partners on the Fantasy was a recently retired FBI agent who last posting was to southern California. He advised us to avoid any port in Mexico.

I'm a Texan and it's well known here to avoid the Tex-Mex border, which is uber-violent due to drug wars. There might be similar issues at Mexican ports.

When I was a kid, I remember touring those Mexican border towns. Peaceful, no worries or problems when visiting. Those days are no more.

 

[RJake1]

If you don't get off the ship in Turkey you are doing yourself a disservice. Istanbul is an exciting, culturally diverse city rich in history. The people are friendly and you can get some very good bargains on items such as rugs, clothing, and spices. The history to be seen in Ephesus (Kusadasi and Izmir) should not be missed. Especially for Christians. You can also buy a "Genuine Fake Watch." Who would want to miss that?

I appreciate the terror and other issues in the region. But you can't live in fear. The odds of being a victim are very, very, very remote. Enjoy what life has to offer.

 

[TestingH2O]

When I was a kid, I remember touring those Mexican border towns. Peaceful, no worries or problems when visiting. Those days are no more.

I remember this too. Heck, we were on a school trip and even got a short time to explore with a tiny bit of independence. (Like a 2 block area.) Such wonder experiences that just can't be replicated any more.