Savor Italian culture on the water

A cook making dessert. [Photo by Xu Lin/China Daily]

The Caruso Theater offers excellent Western performances every night, ranging from dancing to magic shows.

When the Spanish magician manages to escape from the box he's trapped in, everyone is surprised and wants to know how he managed it.

I later chance upon a "secret garden" near the theater-a long walkway with elegant chairs and tables, and round windows.

It's great to find this secluded place on board.

The afternoon light makes it perfect to read a book, or to take photos.

The cruise ship, which is adorned with exquisite decor, is perfect for picture-taking.

My friends all dressed up pose for our photographer friend.

Shopping is another important activity on the ship.

The tax-free shops sell watches, jewelry, cosmetics and bags, and offer discounts from time to time.

For those who are traveling with children, they can leave their kids at the Squok Club where child care professionals look after them.

Children can either join the Captain for a Day or Princess for a Day programs.

In the captain program, kids get to wear a captain's uniform and learn things such as nautical terms and how the weather affects the behavior of the sea.

Little princesses can have their hair, nails and makeup done.

At night, the kids are allowed to attend a party.

The cruise also has delicious food 24 hours a day, with authentic Italian and Chinese fare. It also has Japanese cuisine and Chinese hot pot, which cost extra.

My friends and I love the freshly made pizza and the Chinese noodles. But We are really worried about putting on weight.

Another thing to experience is climbing a glass staircase connecting the restaurants on the ninth and 10th deck. It is a breathtaking experience.

When the cruise ship docks at Jeju Island and then Fukuoka, we head onshore at both places and tour the two cities by bus.

Jeju Island's Teddybear Safari showcases teddy's and other stuffed toys including giraffes and elephants.