We, too, are in Istanbul waiting to board tomorrow after the race ends. Like many on this cruise, we have been to many of the ports already and we booked this especially for Israel & Egypt, having been to the former already. We were suppose to leave Newark a week ago, and we were fortunate that UA canceled it for us. Had zero problem booking a new flight to IST
but we are independent. Love sea days equally, but may turn them into port days, especially if the weather stays this nice.
We have several future cruises with Regent booked, also. No doubt, once we are all onboard, there will be a lot of stories to tell. Hope everyone who wanted to makes this cruise, does make it. We plan to enjoy it!