Oceania Cruises: Marina

Civitavecchia is the port city for Rome. Rome has always been and remains the Eternal City. With its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafés and elegant shops, Rome is one of the world’s most attractive cities. Among the most famous monuments is the Colosseum where spectators watched combats between muscled gladiators and ferocious animals. Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once a political and commercial center. Rome’s squares were enhanced with such imposing structures as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di Trevi. Awe at Christendom’s most magnificent church, the Sistine Chapel. The busy square Piazza Venezia is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. Take a stroll to Rome's famous Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is the site of lovely St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica, where for 200 years, Renaissance masters worked on its design and created an unparalleled masterpiece. Visit Vatican Museum.

Suggested Private Excursions

Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours

Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours

Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours

Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours

Salerno is situated at the northern end of the Gulf of Salerno. The old town, rising up the slopes of the hill on the site of ancient Salernum, still bears evidence of its medieval period. Salerno's main attraction is a Romanesque cathedral, built in 1085 and remodeled in the late 18th century. Inside is the ornate tomb of Margaret of Anjou and the tomb of Pope Gregory VII, who died here in 1085. In the richly decorated crypt under the alter lie the remains of Evangelist Matthew, brought here from Paestum. A hilltop crowned by the old Lombard Castello offers extensive views. Along the seafront, to the east of the harbor, extends a promenade lined with impressive modern buildings. Visit the Greek temples of Paestum. Other favorite excursions from here are to Pompeii and to the popular resort towns of Amalfi and Ravello. The Museo Diocesano houses a fine collection of medieval carved tablets. Occupying two floors of the San Benedetto Monastery, the main attraction at Museo Provinciale is a handsome bronze head of Apollo fished out of the bay in the 1930s.

Palermo is a city and seaport in Italy on the northwestern coast of Sicily, on the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is the largest city and chief port of Sicily. Many of the oldest buildings in the city date from the period when Sicily was a Norman kingdom and show Arab, Byzantine, Norman, and Spanish influences. Outstanding examples are the cathedral (1169-1185), the Palatine Chapel (1140), and the church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti (1132).

Valletta is the capital of Malta. This remarkable fortified city with its massive bastions followed the most advanced Renaissance ideas in town planning, with streets laid straight on a grid looking over the Grand Harbour. Outside the 'City Gate' is the famous Triton Fountain. 'City Gate' has public buses and vendors selling soft drinks and all sorts of traditional fresh Maltese bread and sweets. Freedom Square shows an extraordinary capital with buildings of fine architecture of different tastes and styles ranging from the Mannerism to Baroque to Rococo to Neoclassicism. Valletta is a fascinating city for wandering around looking at what used to be the Knight's own cathedrals and Auberges. The city's backbone is Republic Street, which runs straight through the city center to Fort St. Elmo. Valletta has several narrow, steep side streets decorated with traditional Maltese pastel colored balconies and a statue on almost every street corner. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to choose from.

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Agios Nikolaos lies picturesquely on Mirabello Bay in the eastern part of Crete. Its charming small town has developed into a popular holiday resort thanks to its beautiful beaches and its convenience as a center from which to explore eastern Crete. Visit the island's capital, Heraklion, and the famous site of Knossos. Many of the artifacts and frescoes unearthed at Knossos are now in Heraklion's renowned museum. Among the artists who came from this port city was El Greco, who was born near Heraklion in 1541. The area around the harbor and the side streets are lined with souvenir and handicraft shops. Tavernas along the harbor front offer tasty local dishes. Spinalonga Island is located 15 miles from Ághios Nikólaos. Formerly the site of a leper colony, the island is popular with sun worshippers who enjoy its picturesque setting. Other attractions include the remains of a 16th-century Venetian fort.

Despite the many tourists, Marmaris has managed to retain its charm. Marmaris is in the deep recesses of a pretty bay, framed by pine-clad mountains. The sheltered harbor provides ideal anchorage for boats, which are protected from the stiff breezes out at sea. Secluded coves around Marmaris offer nice beaches with hotels and resorts. Many visitors use Marmaris as a starting point for trips to Caunos, an important ancient city famed for its rock tombs. Attractions include the statue of Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic. Also interesting to see is Menzilhane, an Ottoman version of a pony express station, dating back to the days of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, who ordered the station built in 1545. Beyond that, one can spend a lazy day in the sun or join locals and fellow visitors in a waterfront taverna. It's fun to stroll along the palm-lined waterfront promenade. Approximately 10 minutes away are good, sandy beaches, backed by green mountains. The clear waters of the Aegean are ideal for swimming and watersports, including scuba diving offered at Hotel Mares.

This sun-drenched Mediterranean town on the Turkish Riviera is a major resort with a beautiful crescent bay, dramatic cliffs, and jagged mountains. It is an attractive city with shady palm-lined boulevards and a prize-winning marina. In picturesque old quarter, narrow streets and old wooden houses huddle against ancient city walls. Antalya's visitors come see the old town with its picturesque harbor and excellent Archaeological Museum. Its outstanding exhibits provide fascinating glimpses into the life of the region. In the surrounding area are additional attractions such as Aspendos, Perge and Side. Their remains of antiquity are considered among the most impressive sites. Visit Hadrian's Gate and Main Square, which with its landmark clock tower offers views of the bay and distant mountain peaks. Karatay Medrese (Theological College) exemplifies the best of Seljuk stone carving. Ataturk Museum features a collection of interesting memorabilia commemorating the founder of Turkey.

Suggested Private Excursions

Antalya: The Greco-Roman Heritage of Antalya, Perge & Side - 7 hours

The island of Kos, just off the coast of Turkey, was the birthplace of Hippocrates, father of modern medicine. Byzantine and Hellenistic ruins, glorious beaches and natural beauty make this island a favorite. There really is so much to see on the island, visitors will have trouble deciding which site to see if there is limited time. There is the Asklepeion Sanctuary, which was built in 357 BC and was to ancient Greeks what a spa is to us today. There are also temples of Aphrodite and Dionysus, the Palace of the Knights of Rhodes which is a quite impressive medieval structure with double walls and a moat and Casa Romana. Other attractions include a museum, Turkish mosques, the Roman Odeon and fountains and Roman baths. If time permits, also visit the ruined Byzantine fortress and 14th-century church in Palio Pili as well as the medieval castle at Antimahia.

Santorini is everything that has made the Greek islands legendary. The world famous island of Santorini is the southern most island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea, and is located north of Crete. Its population is distributed among thirteen villages and just exceeds nine thousand. The marvelous dry climate and unbroken sunshine create year around conditions which are perfect for observation, photographs and videos under an extraordinary variety of natural lights and colors.

Suggested Private Excursions

Santorini Island Tour - Half Day Tour approx 4 hours

Santorini: Santorini Highlights - 4 hours

Santorini's ancient Akrotiri excavation & Oia Tour approx 4 hours

Santorini cooking and wine tasting class approx. 4 hours

Megalochori village & the lost Atlantis Museum approx. 4 hours

Santorini Walking food tour approx. 4 hours

Santorini sunset cruise approx. 5 hours

Santorini caldera hiking trail OIa to Fira approx. 4 hours

Izmir is a major seaport in western Turkey, on the Aegean Sea and is the gateway to Ephesus and Sardis. Ephesus is one of the ancient world's largest and most important archaeological and religious sites. Some of the site's most significant structures included the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Basilica of St. John, where the Apostle is buried and the House of the Virgin Mary. Other highlights include the Great Amphi-theatre where St Paul was arrested, Kuretes Street and the Library of Celsus. Sardis was an ancient city of Asia Minor, and the recently uncovered remains lie to the north-east of Izmir. The city attained its greatest prosperity during the reign of Croesus, king of Lydia, and after his overthrow in 546 BC by Cyrus the Great of Persia, it became the western capital of the Persian Empire.

Suggested Private Excursions

Izmir: The Greco-Roman City of Pergamum - 7 hours

This centuries old capital guards the slender waterway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, and is the doorway between the East and West. Visitors can explore remnants of Byzantine Constantinople in the Sultanahmet district, where you will have the chance to see ancient splendors, such as the Haghia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. At night the city boast a lively nightclub scene and excellent Turkish dining options that may include cultural entertainment and dancing. Istanbul also features splendid shopping malls, boutiques, and hand crafted items can be found all over the city.

Suggested Private Excursions

Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)

Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours

Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours

Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours

Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours

Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours

Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)

Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit

Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)

Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours

This centuries old capital guards the slender waterway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, and is the doorway between the East and West. Visitors can explore remnants of Byzantine Constantinople in the Sultanahmet district, where you will have the chance to see ancient splendors, such as the Haghia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. At night the city boast a lively nightclub scene and excellent Turkish dining options that may include cultural entertainment and dancing. Istanbul also features splendid shopping malls, boutiques, and hand crafted items can be found all over the city.

Suggested Private Excursions

Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)

Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours

Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours

Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours

Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours

Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours

Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)

Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit

Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)

Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours

This centuries old capital guards the slender waterway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, and is the doorway between the East and West. Visitors can explore remnants of Byzantine Constantinople in the Sultanahmet district, where you will have the chance to see ancient splendors, such as the Haghia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. At night the city boast a lively nightclub scene and excellent Turkish dining options that may include cultural entertainment and dancing. Istanbul also features splendid shopping malls, boutiques, and hand crafted items can be found all over the city.

Suggested Private Excursions

Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)

Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours

Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours

Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours

Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours

Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours

Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)

Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit

Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)

Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours

Turkey’s tiny port of Dikili lies on the northwestern coast of Aegean Turkey. Its closest landmass neighbor is the Greek island of Lesbos, which is a short ferry-boat ride away. Although Dikili is off the beaten tourist path, it plays host to a number of cruise ships that call here each year, using the port as a starting point for excursions to the interior, mainly the ancient site of Pergamum. In addition, the village and its surrounding area offer a relaxed holiday atmosphere, with fishing boats, small waterfront cafés and a limited number of shops. The main reason to come here is a visit to Pergamum.

Visitors come to Kusadasi for beaches and nearby ruins of Ephesus. The major attraction is the archaeological site of ancient Ephesus, considered to be most important in Turkey. The history of this ancient city dates back to 10th century BC; many remarkable structures seen today are result of an excavation and restoration program. Along a white marble road grooved by ancient chariot wheels, the two-story Library of Celsus presents a striking sight. There are temples, houses of noblemen, and community buildings lining ancient streets. Nestled in the mountainside is a 25,000-seat amphitheater, still used for performances during Festival of Culture and Art. Bible buffs may know Ephesus as inspiration for St. Paul’s Epistle to Ephesians and the site of one of the first seven churches of Asia Minor. Treasures are kept in the Seljuk Archaeological Museum. Among the better-known ancient sites near Kusadasi are ancient Miletus and Dydima. Remains include a well-preserved Roman theater at Miletus and Dydima's sacred temple of Apollo.

Suggested Private Excursions

Kusadasi Port - The Glories of Ephesus (Full Day Tour)

Kusadasi Port - A Taste of Ephesus- (Half day tour)

Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Virgin Mary House - (Half Day Tour)

Kusadasi: Ancient Ephesus Tour - 7 hours

Kusadasi: Priene Day Tour - 7 hours

Kusadasi: The Greco-Roman City of Ephesus & the Wine-making Village of Sirince - 7 hours

Kusadasi Port - Three Ancient Cities; Didyma, Miletus & Priene (Full Day Tour)

Kusadasi Port - Biblical Tour of Ephesus ( Full Day tour)

Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Didyma & Miletus (Full Day Tour)

Situated on a beautiful peninsula, Bodrum is known as a popular holiday resort. Enchanting villages of white painted houses trimmed with purple bougainvillea together with miles of sandy beaches and ideal locations for water sports. On the southern coast of the peninsula lie the golden sandy beaches at Bardakci, Gumbet, Bitez, Ortakent Yalisi, Karaincir, Bagla and Akyarlar, while on the western side are Gumusluk, Yalikavak and Turgut Reis.
For those who want seclusion, the northern coast boasts Turkbuku, Golkoy and Gundogan - all small simple fishing villages, ideal for those who want a subdued and relaxing atmosphere. While the nights in Bodrum town itself are noisy, crowded and vital, these smaller villages offer cozy taverns and restaurants over-looking quiet bays and can all be reached easily by car or even by boat.

Suggested Private Excursions

Bodrum and Halicarnassus - 4 hours

Bodrum Port - Private Culinary Experience (Full Day Tour)

Santorini is everything that has made the Greek islands legendary. The world famous island of Santorini is the southern most island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea, and is located north of Crete. Its population is distributed among thirteen villages and just exceeds nine thousand. The marvelous dry climate and unbroken sunshine create year around conditions which are perfect for observation, photographs and videos under an extraordinary variety of natural lights and colors.

Suggested Private Excursions

Santorini Island Tour - Half Day Tour approx 4 hours

Santorini: Santorini Highlights - 4 hours

Santorini's ancient Akrotiri excavation & Oia Tour approx 4 hours

Santorini cooking and wine tasting class approx. 4 hours

Megalochori village & the lost Atlantis Museum approx. 4 hours

Santorini Walking food tour approx. 4 hours

Santorini sunset cruise approx. 5 hours

Santorini caldera hiking trail OIa to Fira approx. 4 hours

Heraklion, the capital of Crete and its principal commercial port, is just three miles away from the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 by Sir Arthur Evans and partially reconstructed, the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. The Archaeological Museum in Heraklion displays many of the treasures found during the excavations.

Suggested Private Excursions

Crete: Knossos - Archanes - Heraklion Museum -5 hours

Rhodes is one of Greece’s favored vacation centers and was an important cultural center with a well-known School of Rhetoric attended by such greats as Cicero and Caesar. Rhodes' most famous attractions originated with the Knights of St. John, who occupied parts of the island from 1310 to 1522 and left a medieval town, dominated by the Palace of the Grand Masters and Knights' Hospital, which houses an Archaeological Museum with interesting exhibits of national archaeological finds. Rhodes has inspired many artists. The Old Town offers shopping opportunities and lively nightlife. At Mount Filerimos a church has been built on the site of an ancient temple. A popular excursion is to the charming village of Lindos. Its premier attraction, the ancient acropolis, stands atop sheer cliffs. Walls of a 13th-century Crusader castle enclose the site. Today, the winding path up to the acropolis is lined by stalls, where locals sell lace tablecloths and souvenirs. Mandraki Harbor's entrance is flanked by stone columns topped by figures of a stag and a hind, the town's heraldic animals.

Suggested Private Excursions

Rhodes Town & Lindos - Full day tour approx 8 hours

Rhodes Medieval town & Lindos Tour approx 5 1/2 hours

Lindos half day tour 4 1/2 hours

Rhodes & Filermos half day tour approx. 4 1/2 hours

The old town of Alanya dates from Seljuk and Ottoman times. Alanya has become a popular tourist center due to its wide sand beach stretching more than four miles from town. A short ride from old town is citadel hill and the courtyard of the upper fortress. Here stands castle mosque, or Kale Camii. In the same courtyard are ruins of a cruciform Byzantine church and a lighthouse from 1720. From citadel hill, there is a superb panoramic view over the Mediterranean coastal plain, the scattered houses and fruit orchards along Alanya's shore. Visit Seljuk Dockyard - with five vaulted galleries with linking arched entrances. Here a Seljuk sultan built warships enabling him to extend his power across the eastern Mediterranean. The harbor's Red Tower was key to Alanya's harbor defenses.

Every night people celebrate events momentous and trivial. Explore Limassol Castle, which contains the Cyprus Medieval Museum, or the Folk Art Museum, housed in an old mansion. Walk ten miles of beautiful beaches, known as Cypriot Riviera. Stroll in the sea promenade or visit lush Municipal Gardens. On the coastal road to the east, just after luxurious hotels, you will find Amathus, one of the ancient city kingdoms of Cyprus. See the ruins and take a dip near the site of an ancient port. West of Limassol lies Kolossi Castle, a medieval fortress whose walls contain a tower surrounding living quarters, and an ancient sugar factory. Visit the Kourion archaeological site, an ancient city-kingdom, where you can take in a play or concert at the ancient Greco-Roman Theater, overlooking the blue Mediterranean. And explore a treasure trove of Greek and Roman sites, such as the Sanctuary of Apollo.

Holy Land to three of the world's major religions, Israel has a great emotional and spiritual effect on its visitors through its magnificent religious shrines and tenacity of a nation that, against all odds, made the desert bloom. As a center of shipping, banking, foreign commerce and wholesale trading, Haifa boasts institutions for higher education and for scientific research, a theater, a concert hall, museums and places of culture and entertainment. The residential areas and major hotels are situated along the ridge of Mount Carmel, about 900 feet above sea level. Clandestine Immigration & Navy Museum features the ship which ran the British blockade during the Mandatory period. Mane Katz Museum is dedicated to the world-renowned Jewish artist of the same name who left his home, paintings and other works of art to the city. Gan Ha-Pesalim, a lovely garden overlooking the bay, is home to over 20 bronze sculptures by Ursula Malbin. Elija’s Cave, known as the center of the prophet’s activities, is holy to Jews, Christians, Moslems and Druze.

Suggested Private Excursions

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed

2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem

Holy Land to three of the world's major religions, Israel has a great emotional and spiritual effect on its visitors through its magnificent religious shrines and tenacity of a nation that, against all odds, made the desert bloom. As a center of shipping, banking, foreign commerce and wholesale trading, Haifa boasts institutions for higher education and for scientific research, a theater, a concert hall, museums and places of culture and entertainment. The residential areas and major hotels are situated along the ridge of Mount Carmel, about 900 feet above sea level. Clandestine Immigration & Navy Museum features the ship which ran the British blockade during the Mandatory period. Mane Katz Museum is dedicated to the world-renowned Jewish artist of the same name who left his home, paintings and other works of art to the city. Gan Ha-Pesalim, a lovely garden overlooking the bay, is home to over 20 bronze sculptures by Ursula Malbin. Elija’s Cave, known as the center of the prophet’s activities, is holy to Jews, Christians, Moslems and Druze.

Suggested Private Excursions

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed

2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem

Ashdod is one of Israel’s largest ports and a living museum of ancient history. It was one of the five cities of giants, and it was here the Philistines brought the captured Holy Ark, sacred to the Hebrews. Ashdod’s 23-level tel (archaeological dig) lies southeast of the modern city. Among the remains of the 10th century CE Fatimid Fortress, archaeologists discovered an early Arabic document recounting Byzantine ships once brought Muslim prisoners to Ashdod to sell back to their families.

Suggested Private Excursions

2 days/1 night shore excursion from Haifa or Ashdod - Jerusalem and Masada

1-day shore excursion from Ashdod: Jerusalem Old & New

1-day shore excursion from Ashdod: Jerusalem & Bethlehem

Cairo and the ancient monuments of the Egyptian empire have fascinated visitors throughout the centuries. The mystifying Sphinx and the pyramids of Giza, over four thousand years old, stand majestically on the outskirts of the city at the edge of the desert. Cairo's Museum of Antiquities holds one of the finest collections of artifacts in the world, including the astounding treasures of King Tutankhamen's tomb.

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The beautiful town of Chania is where modern, Venetian, Turkish and traditional architecture are blended together to make this one of the most picturesque towns in Crete.  Various archaeological sites, villages, churches, caves, gorges and wonderful beaches are embellishing the charming area. It is worth a visit to the Archeological museum that is housed in the Venetian church of St. Fragiskos and exhibits important finds from the Neolithic and Minoan period to the late Roman.

 

Katakolon is a port admired for beautiful beaches. Equally important, Katakolon is the gateway to Olympia, the great Panhellenic sanctuary. The site of ancient Olympia is situated at the foot of wooded Mount Kronos in an area of gentle hills; excavations began in 1875 and are considered one of archaeology’s great achievements. A direct consequence was the revival of Olympic Games by Baron Pierre de Coubertin; the first modern games were held in Athens in 1896. Today, visitors to Olympia are overwhelmed by the impact of ancient remains and their significance. The site’s most important excavations include numerous monuments, such as Temple of Zeus in the Sacred Precinct, Treasuries, and Stadium. There is an excellent Archaeological Museum with a large collection of bronzes, pottery and sculptures unearthed during the excavations. The main reason for a visit to Katakolon is the trip to Olympia. Those guests who wish to remain in Katakolon will enjoy its unhurried atmosphere and the friendliness of the people.

Suggested Private Excursions

Katakolan - Olympia Tour, site of the Olympic Idea - 4 hours

Situated on the western shore of the Strait bearing its name, the port at the entrance to Sicily is one of the deepest and safest in the Mediterranean. The city's was rebuilt low buildings to minimize the danger of earthquakes. This gives the center a pleasant, open townscape combining sea, sky and hills. Train-ferries, car-ferries and hydrofoils make the connection across the Strait of Messina to Reggio Calabria on the Italian mainland. Among the main attractions is the Norman-Romanesque cathedral, with an adjoining bell tower. The works of Renaissance painter Antonello da Messina and two large Caravaggios can be seen at the Museo Regionale - which features an interesting collection of material salvaged after the 1908 earthquake. From Messina, excursions are possible to Taormina, Mount Etna and across the Strait to mainland Italy.

Valletta is the capital of Malta. This remarkable fortified city with its massive bastions followed the most advanced Renaissance ideas in town planning, with streets laid straight on a grid looking over the Grand Harbour. Outside the 'City Gate' is the famous Triton Fountain. 'City Gate' has public buses and vendors selling soft drinks and all sorts of traditional fresh Maltese bread and sweets. Freedom Square shows an extraordinary capital with buildings of fine architecture of different tastes and styles ranging from the Mannerism to Baroque to Rococo to Neoclassicism. Valletta is a fascinating city for wandering around looking at what used to be the Knight's own cathedrals and Auberges. The city's backbone is Republic Street, which runs straight through the city center to Fort St. Elmo. Valletta has several narrow, steep side streets decorated with traditional Maltese pastel colored balconies and a statue on almost every street corner. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to choose from.

The coastal area of Tunisia's capital, Tunis, at the western end of Lake Tunis, includes the ruins of ancient Carthage and the picturesque suburb Sidi Bou Said. The main focus of its ville nouvelle (new city) is the wide, tree-lined Avenue Habib Bourguiba, which becomes Avenue de France and ends in Place de la Victoire and the entrance to the medina. The medina is a place where traditions can be observed and where visitors get a feel for the local way of life. It features most of the city's points of interest and souvenir shops. Bardo Museum, which is housed in an old palace, is renowned as the best in the country and features an impressive display of artifacts covering Carthaginian, Roman, Palaeo-Christian and Arab-Islamic eras. The Roman mosaics are one of the finest collections in the world. The 13th-century Kasbah Mosque stands on an enormous open square beautifully paved with local granite. One of the best beaches is found at La Marsa - one of the most exclusive residential suburbs, with upscale cafes and restaurants. Others are at Amilcar and La Goulette.

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The Balearics are comprised of 16 islands; the three principal ones are Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca. Lying just 60 miles off the Spanish mainland, the islands’ lush and rugged landscape combined with an extremely mild, sunny climate prove irresistible. The Balearics boast cosmopolitan resorts with lively nightlife and plenty of sports activities. Palma de Majorca is the capital of the archipelago. A cosmopolitan city with sophisticated shops and restaurants, it also offers buildings of spectacular Moorish and gothic architecture. Museo de Mallorca housed in the Palacio Ayamans boasts an interesting collection of Moorish, medieval and 18th- to 19th-century art. Those who wish to explore the northern end of the island will enjoy the dramatic land and seascape of Cabo Formentor at the end of a long, narrow peninsula. A winding road with magnificent views leads to the luxury Hotel Formentor, beautifully situated above the bay. The lighthouse of Cabo Formentor is the most northerly point on Majorca.

Barcelona, the self-confident and progressive capital of Spain, is a tremendous place to be. Though it boasts outstanding Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, and some great museums – most notably those dedicated to Picasso and Catalan art – it is above all a place where there's enjoyment simply in walking the streets, stopping in at bars and cafés, drinking in the atmosphere. A thriving port and the most prosperous commercial centre in Spain, it has a sophistication and cultural dynamism way ahead of the rest of the country. In part this reflects the city's proximity to France, whose influence is apparent in the elegant boulevards and imaginative cooking. But Barcelona has also evolved an individual and eclectic cultural identity, most perfectly and eccentrically expressed in the architecture of Antoni Gaudí. Scattered as Barcelona's main sights may be, the greatest concentration of interest is around the old town (La Ciutat Vella). These cramped streets above the harbor are easily manageable, and far more enjoyable, on foot. Start, as everyone else does, with the Ramblas.

Suggested Private Excursions

Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours

Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)

Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)

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Malaga is a popular holiday destination - known as the birthplace of Picasso and for sweet Malaga dessert wines from vineyards outside of town. Points of interest include impressive Gothic architecture, remains of a Moorish castle and interesting museums. Malaga is a popular starting point for trips to Granada and resorts along Costa del Sol. Splendid Granada and famed Alhambra are the region’s most outstanding attractions. Magnificent Moorish palaces and fortifications contrast sharply with Christian churches from Spain’s 1492 Reconquest era. Ronda's incredible location affording spectacular views over the valley and distant hills. Malaga Fine Arts Museum holds works by Spanish artists of the 16th to 20th centuries and by artists from Malaga, including Picasso. Marbella, which has been favored by the rich and famous, is a very popular holiday and yachting resort destination. One of the first resorts of the Costa del Sol, Torremolinos has luxury hotels, busy plazas and shopping streets, a lively art scene, a Wax Museum created by Madame Tussaud, and a glitzy casino.

Suggested Private Excursions

Spain: Malaga Walk & Taste Tour - 3 hours

Gibralfaro (4 hours)

Cadiz is an old city with Andalusian character. The magnificent Baroque cathedral and impressive mansions were built with gold. Cadiz’s modern-day treasure lies 30 minutes to the north in the rolling hills of Jerez - where production of the liquid gold, as the famous sherry is often called, ensures a booming economy. Visit one of the bodegas for a tour and tasting. The Historic City Center of Old Cadiz is a pedestrian zone for a pleasant stroll. The monument to "Las Cortes" is the Spanish Parliament established in Plaza de España. The 18th-century golden-domed Cathedral of Santa Cruz looms over the whitewashed houses. The dazzling interior contains a magnificent collection of sculptures and art objects. The Museum of History features an outstanding model of Cadiz in ivory and mahogany that illustrates what the town looked like at the end of the 18th century. The small, colorful Flower Market offers much local flavor. The Moorish-style Alameda Apodaca Gardens serve as a reminder of the Moors’ occupation in past centuries.

Suggested Private Excursions

Ancient Port of Cadiz (3 hours)

Casablanca today boasts one of Africa's largest ports. The Place Mohammed V is the heart of the city; the main boulevards branch out from here. Casablanca is the kingdom's commercial capital; most of the cultural activities are concentrated here, from art galleries to excellent international restaurants. The Hassan II Mosque completed in 1993 is among the largest in the world, boasting the tallest minaret. Casablanca is no doubt Morocco's window on the world and is a fast-paced cosmopolitan city where trends are created and modernism parts company with traditionalism or tries to blend them. Casablanca is one of the world's most interesting and open Muslim cities. Some of the best restaurants are found along Boulevard Mohammed el Hansali and on the way to beach resorts. Casablanca's beaches and exclusive suburb are located to the east of the city along the Boulevard de la Corniche. This is a very trendy area, lined with four-star hotels, restaurants and bars.

Suggested Private Excursions

Casablanca City Visit - 4/5 hours

Rabat City Visit - 6 Hours

El Jadida & Azemmour - 8 hours

Marrakech City Visit - 12 Hours

Poised between the Atlantic and the snow crowned Atlas Mountains, Agadir is a lively resort set beside a vast beach. Agadir is the most important shipping port in southwestern Morocco, but there are also beautiful sandy bays with year-round warm seas. It’s a very modern city, built with the tourist vacation in mind, a city which boasts a number of good hotels, restaurants, shops and a lively nightlife. It is the perfect base for excursions to Taroudant and Tafrefout.

Suggested Private Excursions

Agadir City Visit - 4/5 Hours

Agadir to Taroudant for the city visit - 5/6 Hours

At the northeastern tip of the Canaries, Lanzarote offers some of the most unusual
scenery to be found, with its unique "lunar" landscape of the Timanfaya National
Park. Wander in the well-preserved colonial town of Tequise, the island's former
capital, or visit the unusual house of the island's famed artist, the late Cesar
Manrique, who designed it as part of the volcanic landscape.

Gran Canaria is one of the seven Canary Islands, located off the northwest corner of Africa. As the most populated island of the archipelago, you'll find the local culture is a unique blend of Spanish, African, Latin American and Northern European communities. But the diversity doesn't end there. Gran Canaria also has three distinct climates and landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, gorgeous beaches and tropical forests with lush vegetation.

Madeira has been described as "Island of Eternal Spring". It is renowned for its wine, which many feel ranks among the world’s best. Funchal has a wide selection of resort hotels where watersports, golf and tennis are popular. Visitors can tour the 15th-century cathedral, orchid gardens of Quinta das Cruzes, and buildings associated with Christopher Columbus. Madeira’s discoverer, Zarco, is believed to have lived in the house Quinta das Cruzes. Now it displays furniture and paintings and is surrounded by fabulous gardens. The stunning 15th-century design of Sé Cathedral features white stucco with contrasting black basalt and red tufa rock; the ceiling is inlaid with ivory. Located near Town Hall, the Museum of Sacred Art contains art from several islands, including a group of 15th- and 16th-century paintings of Portuguese and Flemish schools. Visit colorful Mercado dos Lavradores during the morning to see flower vendors and fish and produce stands.

Suggested Private Excursions

Funchal History & Tradition (6 - 8 Hours)

Funchal History & Wine (6 - 8 Hours)

Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (8 Hours)

Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (4 Hours)

Funchal Sightseeing HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours)

Funchal at Your Leisure HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours)

The Canary Islands encompass such a variety of features that in the course of a day it is possible to pick bananas, throw snowballs, swim in the Atlantic and climb mountains. La Palma is the most western of the Canary Islands — and probably the greenest. Over seventy percent of the island is a natural preserve. La Palma has an abundance of wild plants and wild flowers, many of which only occur on La Palma, or only on the Canary islands.. For the adventurous, there are national parks with miles and miles of hiking trails to explore. Hike along the coast, through forests and up mountain peaks of up to 8,000 feet. There are also extinct and active volcanoes to hike around as well. Santa Cruz, the main port and capital of the island, is a charming Spanish town complete with a 17th century castle, a Renaissance church and an exquisite 16th century town hall. Here one can also find a mock-up of Columbus's ship The Santa Maria near the northern end of the boulevard by the maritime museum.

The Canary Archipelago, or Fortunate Islands, as they are often called, owe their fame and fortune to their geographical location and climate. Of volcanic origin, the islands lie off the African coast and encompass such a variety of features that in the course of a day it is possible to pick bananas, throw snowballs, swim in the Atlantic and climb mountains. Tenerife is the largest of Canaries. The south features a desert with grotesque rock formations and chunks of cooled lava. Further north stretch miles of green fields of bananas, tomatoes and potatoes. Mountain slopes are dotted with beech, eucalyptus and pine trees. The coastline is as varied as the areas inland, offering black, grey and golden sand, cliffs, tame beaches and wild capes. A spectacular example of past volcanic activity is Canadas crater which rings Mount Teide - the main feature of the island. At 12,198 feet, the cone-shaped Teide is the highest Spanish summit and nearly always snow-capped. A cable car is available to the top.

One of the smaller Canary Islands, La Gomera is best known for being Christopher Columbus’ residence prior to his discovering the Americas. His 15th century house is now a museum open to the public. In the seaside resort of Valle Gran Rey, one can sit in shore front restaurants, sample the local cuisine and enjoy the views of Tenerife. Don’t miss an opportunity to try Mistela, a locally made beverage that is honey from the palm trees mixed with local white wine.

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The island’s capital, Bridgetown, is one of the Caribbean's major free ports, bustling with activity. Trafalgar Square features the monument to Horatio Nelson. Facing the square are handsome structures of the House of Assembly and the Legislative buildings. George Washington worshipped at St. Michael’s Cathedral during the only trip he made outside of the United States. Housed in former British military prison buildings, the Barbados Museum is divided into various galleries that feature exhibits depicting the history of Barbados from the pre-Columbian period to modern times.
Built in 1816, Gun Hill Signal Station is the finest of several signal stations on the island. The white limestone lion behind the garrison is a well-known landmark. Barbados boasts excellent golf courses. A wide range of watersports is available at hotels and special watersports centers.

The skyline of St. John's, the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, is dominated by the magnificently evocative white baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral. Built in 1845, the church is now in its third incarnation, as earthquakes in 1683 and in 1745 destroyed the previous structures. The towers are the first sight of Antigua for about half of the island's visitors each year, many of whom arrive by boat. St. John's is a lively hub for shopping and dining.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, is an old city of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and shaded courtyards. It reflects its Spanish past in such famous fortresses as El Morro and San Cristobal. San Juan is also a modern world capital -- a cosmopolitan metropolis of wide boulevards, lively cafes and highly regarded shops and galleries. San Juan is two unique destinations -- and you'll be fascinated by them both.

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A great climate which makes it a great vacation spot all year round, exciting attractions, professional sports teams, art, history, museums, and all of the nature parks and education you could ask for. Miami has many local activities & attractions, including Coconut Grove, Miami Beach, and South Beach. Amusement parks, deep-sea fishing, boat rides, sightseeing, fine dining, professional football, dolphin watching, marine museums. A visitor can spend hours, days, or weeks entertaining themselves and family without having to travel more than a few minutes in any direction. Nighttime entertainment includes: music and dance clubs with music ranging from smooth sounding jazz to lively disco, comedy clubs, concerts, theater, opera, symphony and movies. Virtually no one comes to Miami without taking a stroll along the Beach.