I think that might be a little too much immersion for me. It actually isnt the ill-fated Costa Concordia thats pictured on the front of the brochure. Its sister ship Costa Fascinosa. But inside Im encouraged to book a seven-night western Mediterranean cruise on the Costa Concordia between Feb. 25 and Oct. 29. Prices start at $749 and Im eligible to enjoy a $50 onboard credit. I think I might spend that on an aqualung. When you choose Costa cruises, the brochure explains, you dont just see Europe you live it. I called American Express and a representative explained that it takes between six and eight weeks from when a brochure is put into creative to when it reaches mailboxes, making it too late to pull the mailing. Obviously that offer is not valid, she said. The cruise does sound nice, though. Passengers can relax in the dazzling casino, savor a gourmet spa menu, indulge in a Turkish steam bath or just linger on a spacious teak sun deck and savor la dolce vita. Dont linger too long, though. The lifeboats are waiting.
The inside of the brochure. (John Kelly)
The stricken cruise liner Costa Concordia.