We've traveled. IMHO it takes 3 weeks independant weeks to cover what takes 2 weeks on an organized tour. When independent we hit the AmEx office or something similar with Eng. speaking guides and book a comprehensive overview. Then you know what you want to see more of and can return. Next week in Istanbul we have booked a guide (recom. by friends who have recent first hand experience with him) for 2 days. After that we shall do what appeals. At the end of that week we board the Diamond and have prebooked excursions. We have experience in Venice and will simply let the spirit move us. Should be fun. And the unexpected is sometimes the most fun.
Babs