Mariner, 83 Nights Grand Arctic Adventure ex New York to Barcelona

Seven Seas Mariner® exudes class, from the delectable offerings of Chartreuse to the debonair atmosphere of the Connoisseur Club.

Portland, Maine
Sophisticated, yet down to earth, the seafaring City of Portland represents the heart, soul and strength of this bustling port. The warehouse district features wonderful restaurants where you can savor succulent, freshly caught lobsters and other treasures from the sea, pubs featuring a multitude of micro-brewed beers, art galleries, shops and museums. Not to be missed is a visit to the Maine Historical Society’s beautifully restored 1789 Wadsworth-Longfellow House and Gardens, the Maine Historical Society Museum and Brown Library, a three-in-one cultural bonanza, all just a short stroll from the city center.

Bar Harbor, Maine
Tall ships unfurl their sails and make for the open sea, while harbor seals, porpoises and whales play in the wide blue bay. From the mid-1800s until the great fire of 1947, Bar Harbor was a haven for wealthy summer visitors who built shingled, 60-room "summer cottages" on rocky promontories and islands. Today, the main interest is Acadia National Park, a magnificent landscape of towering coastal mountains and coves, lakes, hundreds of streams and ponds, and Somes Sound, a splendid glacial-carved fjord.

Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick
Explore the sophisticated urban delights of Canada’s oldest incorporated city and its extraordinary natural wonders in Saint John and the Bay of Fundy. Discover the area’s Loyalist heritage and shipbuilding industry with a visit to the New Brunswick Museum. Enjoy the Victorian Architecture as you stroll to the Old City Market. Look for maple syrup, local handicrafts, hard cider and other food items and souvenirs. Witness the Bay of Fundy’s incredible tides – the highest in the world.

Halifax, Nova Scotia
Welcoming travelers to an innovative and historic cityscape, Nova Scotia’s Halifax offers excellent dining and friendly maritime smiles. Tour Halifax Citadel or take a stroll along the historic waterfront or through the delightful Public Gardens, the oldest Victorian gardens in Canada. Lobster and seafood are local specialties and always tempting to the taste-buds.. The Micmac Indians, called the area ‘Chebuctook’, meaning Great Long Harbor and the city’s ideal location on one of the largest natural harbors in the world made it a strategic asset for convoys in both world wars. Scenic Dartmouth lies on the opposite shore and can be visited by crossing on the oldest saltwater ferry in Canada.

Sydney, Nova Scotia
Poised on Cape Breton Island, Sydney is your gateway to the scenic and historic attractions of the Cape Breton Highlands, and the incredible Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, Canada’s largest historical reconstruction. Once known as the “Gibraltar of the New World”, the Fortress of Louisbourg, site of momentous 18th-century battles between the competing empires of France and Great Britain, has been restored to exactly as it looked in 1740. Sydney charms the traveler with harbor views along The Boardwalk and at the nearby summer home of Alexander Graham Bell, now an enlightening museum.

Corner Brook, Newfoundland
Start by taking in the breathtaking view from the monument honoring Captain James Cook, the first to map the area in 1767. More history awaits you in the Corner Brook Museum and its marine artifacts, forestry exhibits and collections from aboriginal people. The breathtaking Humber Valley is just outside the city, an ideal location for skiers, hikers and anglers.

Nuuk, Greenland
The largest city in Greenland, Nuuk is the cultural and economic center of the country. Explore the picturesque colonial harbor with its quaint old buildings and the newly renovated market where locals sell their daily catch. Greenland’s history comes alive in the National Museum, and its culture thrives in the Nuuk Museum of Art and the Katuaq Cultural Centre. Nuuk’s extensive fjord system is home to many whales, and the area is also populated by seals, reindeer, arctic foxes, arctic hares and ravens.

Paamiut, Greenland
This colorful fishing village is rich with Inuit culture and a strong connection to the sea. Learn about the town’s history and culture on a guided tour revealing archaeological discoveries that indicate the area was inhabited as far back as 1500 BCE. Explore the stunning coastline on a ferry and perhaps catch a glimpse of the minke whales, fin whales, humpback whales and orcas that swim in pods in the surrounding waters. Bring home handicrafts made from local materials such as oxen wool, mussel shells, soapstone, reindeer antlers and precious stones are available in small souvenir shops.

Narsaq, Greenland
Nestled within a mountainous landscape of Greenland, Narsaq is home to some of the world's rarest minerals, which many of you will find fascinating. Among them is the Tugtupite, a rare, semi-precious stone that glows under UV light. Gourmands won’t want to miss toasting with locally brewed Qajaq beer crafted with ice-age water from the surrounding icebergs. As a place less visited, Narsaq has plenty of treasures that are not well-known, such as Norse ruins buried in the valleys.

Isafjordur, Iceland
Discover the dazzling natural beauty of Isafjordur. With its striking steep mountains on three sides rising dramatically around a gorgeous bay, this is one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth. Trace the area’s history with a visit to the Maritime Museum in one of the oldest buildings dating back to the 18th century. A delightfully urban atmosphere prevails with major music schools, free concerts and festivals. Bring home fine handmade woolen items, nautical-themed articles, as well as arts and crafts. Feast on fresh baked goods and coffee at one of the many cafés.

Reykjavik, Iceland
Just as Iceland is a unique country, rugged and remote, yet modern and enjoying Nordic standards of affluence, so Reykjavik is a beautifully diverse capital city. As Iceland's capital and its main center of population, the city of Reykjavik offers a fascinating mixture of the traditional and the very technically advanced. In addition, its natural beauty leaves a lasting impression. Visit the remarkable solfatara fields of Krýsuvík where you’ll discover an expanse of steaming volcanic vents and boiling hot springs, framed dramatically by a range of multi-colored hills.

Djupivogur, Iceland
Amongst the endless majesty of sheer-sided mountains etched with waterfalls in Iceland’s sparsely populated Eastfjords, the small coastal village of Djúpivogur offers something magical: Mt. Búlandstindur, a pyramid-shaped basalt mountain peaking at 3,507 feet that’s widely believed to be a focus of mystical forces. Nestled by the picturesque fjord of Hamarsfjörður, the town was a trading center as far back as 1589. Visit a historic timber building called Langabúð, constructed in 1790, to admire the sculptures of Djúpivogur’s own Ríkarður Jónsson (1888-1977). Take a boat tour to the island of Papey – named after Irish hermits who sailed to Iceland in the 7th and 8th centuries – to see a colony of Atlantic Puffins.

Klasvik, Faroe Islands
Located roughly 200 miles north-northwest of Scotland, the Faroe Islands are rife with steep cliffs, soaring mountains and narrow fjords. As you sail into the fishing harbor of Klaksvik, the second-largest city in the Faroe Islands, you’ll be dumbstruck by the magnificent pyramid mountain on the adjacent island of Kunoy that not only boggles the senses but forms a protective barrier to northern ocean waves. In fact the city is surrounded by some of the highest peaks in Faroe islands. You’ve never seen anything like the nearly 2500-feet-high Enniberg that drops vertically into the ocean: it’s the highest promontory in world. You will feel like you’ve come to the land of the Vikings.

Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), Denmark
Surrounded to the north and southwest by towering mountains with dramatic landscapes, Tórshavn is a picturesque port steeped in Viking history. Main attractions include Tinganes, the oldest part of town, with small wooden houses covered in turf roofs. Explore Nordic House, widely regarded as one of the finest examples of modern Nordic architecture; and Listasavn Føroya art museum. To fully experience the Faroe Islands’ ancient history, visit the ruins of Magnus Cathedral.

Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Scotland
Kirkwall is the largest town and capital of the Orkney Islands, off the coast of northern mainland Scotland. Kirkwall is one of the most attractive and well-preserved small towns in Scotland. Apart from the main historical buildings, there are many 17th-18th century houses and other structures in the local vernacular style. Kirkwall also has the most northerly of the English speaking world’s Carnegie libraries, which was visited and opened by Andrew Carnegie and his wife in the early years of the 20th century.

Ullapool, United Kingdom
With a population of 1,500, Ullapool is a small port town but would be considered large compared to many villages in the Scottish Highlands. Situated on the banks of Loch Broom surrounded by mountains, Ullapool is fronted by rows of whitewashed, black-roofed façades that invite you to spend a pleasant day learning the town’s history, shopping for locally made gifts and feasting on hand-dived scallops. Set out from Ullapool in almost any direction and you’ll find yourself amid the spectacular scenery of the Scottish Highlands, where you can follow a river to a 30-foot cascading waterfall or head to the coast for a splendid day at the beach.

Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast lies snuggled into the rugged coast of Northern Ireland where the River Lagan flows to the sea. This Northern Ireland capital saw its earliest settlement in the early Middle Ages. At that time, a substantial stone fortress punctuated the horizon. Today, world travelers are eager to view her physical beauty and discover her renewed tranquility. Residents enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shop at trendy stores, and visit pubs lining The Golden Mile.

Douglas, Isle of Man
Discover Douglas, the capital of the Isle of Man, with its horse drawn tram and Victorian Era hotels lining the promenade. Delve into its rich Celtic history and lore. Ride the horse drawn tram to the island’s highest summit where you can see six Kingdoms: Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, the Isle of Man and Heaven. Explore the beautifully transformed Villa Marina complex, first opened in 1931. Enjoy high end shopping while looking for uniquely Manx souvenirs of beautiful tartans, scarves, smoked kippers and locally made cheeses. Enjoy fish and chips and a famous Manx beer along the waterfront in this land of a bygone era.

Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), Ireland
A UNESCO City of Literature founded in 1592, Ireland’s capital and birthplace of Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw has long been a stalwart of European culture. Lively, cosmopolitan and eminently walkable, Dublin’s complex history is told by medieval castles and cathedrals complemented by elegant, 18th-century houses built during the city’s prosperous Georgian era. Cruise the legendary River Liffey for spectacular views of the cast-iron Ha’penny Bridge and neoclassical Customs House. Wander the architectural gems of Trinity College, explore the cultural quarter of Temple Bar, visit a pair of medieval cathedrals (St. Patrick’s and Christ Church) and a bevy of museums before enjoying a perfect pint at one of Dublin’s cozy pubs.

Holyhead, Wales
Holyhead stands on the far side of Anglesey, which is technically an island separated from Wales by the narrow Menai Straits. The distant mountains provide an ever-present backdrop, enticing the visitor to investigate their beauty. The rural charm of North Wales is juxtaposed with some unexpected features, for, perhaps to the casual visitor's surprise, this is an area that has participated in some of the great moments of our history.

Liverpool, England
Liverpool is a city and metropolitan borough in Merseyside, in North West England, along the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary. Inhabitants of Liverpool are referred to as Liverpudlians and nicknamed "Scousers," in reference to the local meal known as 'scouse', a form of stew. In 2004, Liverpool's waterfront was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting the city's importance in the development of the world's trading system and dock technology.

Ringaskiddy (Cork), Ireland
Formerly a small, quiet fishing village in southern County Cork, modern Ringaskiddy is a busy cruise port that offers access to cities like Cobh, Cork and Kinsale. Take a ferry across Cork Harbour to learn the story of Annie Moore, the first emigrant processed at New York City’s Ellis Island in 1892, at the Cobh Heritage Center. In historic and very walkable Cork, take in the graceful arch of the 19th-century Parliament Bridge, ornate Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral and limestone facade of the Cork Courthouse before pausing to people-watch at a Castle Street café. Home to a magnificent naval base in the 17th and 18th centuries, Kinsale is a delightful city to sample Dublin Bay prawns, Galway Bay oysters or traditional Irish stew.

Saint-Malo, France
Explore this fascinating fortified town or discover the lovely medieval town of Dinan and its impressive clock tower and picturesque half-timbered houses. Drive along the rugged Brittany coast and savor the stunning view of mystical Mont St. Michel before wandering through its steep winding streets and the mazelike abbey passages.

Paris (Le Havre), France
Enjoy the scenic trip through the rolling French countryside to Paris and spend the day savoring it's gardens, museums and historic sites. Visit the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Take a boat ride along the Seine and a stroll along the Champs Elysee. Or visit historic Rouen or the battlefields of Normandy.

Calais, France
Situated a mere 20 miles from the English coast, Calais has been a desirable port since the Middle Ages, leaving today’s transport hub is rich with history. You’ll find the first cast of Auguste Rodin’s Burghers of Calais depicting local leaders surrendering to English forces in 1347 in front of Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), a World Heritage site due to its extraordinary beffroi (belfry). Admire a 13th-century watchtower, 16th-century citadel and 19th-century lighthouse that survived German bombs during World War II before seeing the thousands of objects, documents and photographs at Le Musée Mémoire 39-45, all housed in a former German bunker. A pair of non-WWII museums illuminate the city’s lace industry and fine arts.

Antwerp, Belgium
The two most recurring sights in Antwerp are the works of local sculptor Peter Paul Rubens and hands, which adorn everything from the town flag to the local Belgian chocolates. The hands' symbolism is explained at Brabo Fountain in Grote Market Square, which depicts the soldier that severed the hand of a mythical giant who bullied the townspeople by taking tolls. Antwerp is also known for its beautifully preserved Gothic and Baroque architecture, which includes the Cathedral of Our Lady, a masterpiece of lace work in stone on Groenplaats public square.

Amsterdam, Netherlands
As capital cities go, Amsterdam is small in comparison. It has a reputation for free-spirited and very liberal lifestyles. Some might call it Europe's most "radical" city, but one cannot deny the beauty of Amsterdam and its rich history. Amsterdam is a cultural center of Europe, as exemplified in its more than 140 art galleries and 40 museums. In addition, it is famous for its baroque architecture, canals, and cobblestone streets where the favored mode of transportation is the bicycle.

Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, the royal capital of Denmark, is one of Europe's oldest capitals. It was a fishing village until the middle of the 12th century, but then grew in importance after being fortified in 1167. Because of its harbor, it soon became a place of commercial importance. Copenhagen has a long history well-integrated with today's modern life. Theaters, museums, art galleries and musical entertainment are among the attractions that make Copenhagen memorable.

Kiel, Germany
With its proximity to Scandinavia along the 11-mile Kiel Fjord, this capital city of the northern Germany state of Schleswig-Holstein has a long and proud maritime history. It is also where the eastern lock of the world’s busiest artificial waterway – Kiel Canal – connects the North Sea to the Baltic and site of the annual Kiel Week, the largest sailing event in the world. Admire some of the 60,000 ships that traverse the canal every year on a stroll along the waterfront promenade known as the Kiellinie, perhaps stopping for a dessert called Rote Grütze at one of many inviting cafés and restaurants. For an atmospheric appreciation of Kiel’s fishing and seafaring history, explore the Schiffahrtsmuseum located within a Gothic Revival fish auction house.

Ronne (Bornholm), Denmark
When you dock in Rønne on Bornholm, you’ll be joining a long list of historic visitors. Only about 40,000 people live here, but the island’s location in the middle of the Baltic Sea has made it a stopping point for sailors since the 1100s. The only difference now is that it attracts more international tourists than Vikings. People come to savor the beautiful scenery that includes craggy cliffs and white sand beaches, all topped with a dollop of sunshine. Add in a side of quaint churches, artists’ workshops and fresh local foods, and you’ve got quite a treat. Stop at Bornholm’s friendly welcome center if you want recommendations from locals.

Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland
Step into colorful and masterfully restored Old Town Gdansk and experience the grandeur of this once powerful member of the Hanseatic League. Marvel at the exquisite architecture. Stroll the entire length of Ulica Diuga (Long St.) stopping to visit St. Mary’s Church, which took 150 years to build, and its Astronomical Clock, from1460. Browse through the museums, shops and galleries. Seek out quality amber, embroidered linens, modern silver jewelry, and fine woolen sweaters. Admire the grand houses , the Green and the Golden Gates on the Royal Road. Try a sip of vodka distilled and served with real flecks of gold.

Klaipéda, Lithuania
Klaipeda, or Memel, in Lithuania is situated at the mouth of the Curonian Lagoon where it flows into the Baltic Sea. During World War II, the city was captured by the Soviet Red Army. Unlike the rest of East Prussia, the Memel Territory was not considered part of the Soviet occupation zone, and was incorporated into the Lithuanian SSR. The city began to develop cultural activities in the 1970s and 1980s, such as the introduction of the Sea Festival cultural tradition.

Riga, Latvia
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is situated on the Baltic Sea coast on the mouth of the river Daugava. After more than 700 years of German, Swedish, Russian rule, Latvia, with Riga as its capital city, thus declared its independence on November 18, 1918. Soviet occupation and annexation occurred in 1940, but then Latvia declared its full de facto independence in 1991. The Historic Centre of Riga has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city is particularly notable for its extensive Art Nouveau architecture

Stockholm, Sweden
The “Venice of the North,” spanning 14 small islands at the outflow of Lake Mälar into the Baltic, Stockholm is the largest city in Scandinavia and architecturally one of the finest in the world, with broad streets, waterside parks and many pedestrian walkways. For a taste of the city, take a walking tour of Old Town, and particularly the Royal Palace and beautiful Riddarholm Church; take in the views from the observation deck in the Town Hall; or visit one of the Skeppsholmen Museums, including Skeppsholm Church (1842), the Museum of Architecture, the Museum of East Asian Art and the Modern Museum. A main attraction near the center of town is the Vasa Museum, on the island of Djurgården, displaying the almost fully intact 64-gun warship Vasa, that sank on her maiden voyage in 1628.

Visby, Sweden
Visby is the largest city on the island of Gotland, and was once one of the most powerful cities in Europe. The entire island is full of ruins, artifacts and memories from its periods of greatness during the Viking period and Middle Ages when Visby was a member of the Hanseatic League. The town is surrounded by the Visby Ringwall, a huge 13th century stone wall that encloses the city. Inside the wall, Visby beckons with its medley of modern and medieval times.

Oslo, Norway
Oslo is Norway's capital and largest city. Located at the head of the Oslofjord, the city is encircled by wooded hills and snowcapped peaks. Norway is a maritime nation with Oslo being the chief port for sea services from the Continent and England. Throughout Oslo’s 900-year history there have been many fires, and as a result it has a mixture of architectural styles. With a fairly compact city center, many of Oslo's attractions can be explored on foot.

Lysekil, Sweden
The seaside town of Lysekil is filled with incredible sights. Among them is Lysekil Church, whose granite was carved by hand and winched into place. The tower alone is 206 feet high and the spire rises more than 300 feet above sea level. Embark on a seal safari and see the rare Bohuslän in its true habitat or visit the Havets Hus, a saltwater aquarium where you can see and get the chance to touch some of the around 100 different species that live in the Gullmar Fjord.

Skagen, Denmark
Skagen has a wonderfully rich art history and an even greater collection of modern art galleries throughout the city. Often referred to as the Land of Light, the sun beautifully reflects off of the abundance of sand and water for longer hours than anywhere else in Denmark. Skagen’s beacon is its bustling harbor, which brings in fresh seafood from the northern tip of Jutland, which surrounded by the sea. Experience its magnificent countryside with large white sandy beaches and Denmark's largest moving sand dune, Råbjerg Mile.

Kristiansand, Norway
Discover cosmopolitan Kristiansund with its cultural, tranquil atmosphere, blend of contemporary and traditional architecture, and natural beauty woven throughout and beyond the city set on the shores of a sparkling fjord. Visit the old town, Posebyn, and admire the small, white wooden houses that speak of a bygone era. Stroll along the boardwalk to the town center and Fiskebrygga (fish market), enjoying the maritime history and fresh local seafood. Visit the Adger Nature Museum and Botanical Gardens for an overview of Norway’s history dating back to the Ice Age. Then go to Markens gate to browse the shops, making a turn onto Skippergada for a selection of smaller boutiques, galleries and cafés. Look for hand-knit sweaters, fine Norwegian glassware and local crafts in this picture perfect setting.

Stavanger, Norway
Stavanger is the fourth largest city in Norway, and has been called the Petroleum Capital of Norway. Starting in the 1880s, industry grew in Stavanger, primarily based on treatment and exports of fish and fish-products. In the 1960s, exploratory oil-drilling in the North Sea changed the economic situation for Stavanger. With its good harbor and plane connections, Stavanger was well-positioned to take advantage of the increased activity. Stavanger and its region, along with Liverpool, United Kingdom, have been selected as a European Capital of Culture for 2008.

Olden, Norway
A delightful village renowned for Norwegian hospitality and friendliness, Olden sits at the end of the famous 66-mile Nordfjord in Western Norway. You’ll be hard pressed to conjure a more profoundly beautiful location, where winding, peaceful valleys meet colossal glaciers and crashing waterfalls, all set against the backdrop of towering mountains and staggering fjords. Kayak across glassy waters, breathe in mountain air hiking in the countryside, or take in the stunning views from the Loen Skylift.

Kristiansund, Norway
Beautifully situated on four main islands, Kristiansund is an inviting city surrounded by astonishing natural beauty. Its most famous attraction is the Atlantic Road, reputed to offer the world’s best road trip. The route winds its way across islands and over bridges with magnificent views of the ocean and coastline. Kristiansund also houses the oldest opera in Norway, and the city boasts a diverse and colorful array of architectural styles both classic and modern

Trondheim, Norway
Norway’s history is written in the buildings and monuments of Norway’s first capital and third largest city, Trondheim. The Sagas tell us how King Olav Tryggvason of Viking fame founded the city on this ice-free fjord in 997, mesmerized by the winding Nidelva River and lovely forested hills. The timbered architecture of the beautiful 11th-century Nidaros Cathedral is actually built over the tomb of St. Olav, and even today, Norwegian kings are crowned within its massive nave.

Hammerfest, Norway
High up in the least populated and northernmost part of Norway, Hammersmith is a modern outpost on the island of Kvaløya that’s undergone a stirring rebirth. Visit the Museum of Reconstruction to learn the stories of those forced to evacuate during World War II and the town’s dramatic restoration after its razing by the retreating German army. Admire the Hammerfest Kirke (Church), built in 1961, designed to mimic the shape of traditional Norwegian fish-drying racks. Get a souvenir membership pin from the Royal & Ancient Polar Bear Society and watch for reindeer as you hike to the summit of Mount Salen for panoramic fjord views.

North Cape (Honningsvåg), Norway
The world’s northernmost village, Honningsvag is the gateway to the North Cape. It is a completely modern fishing harbor set in a land of forests, fjord waters, and crashing waterfalls. The Cape is 20 miles from Honningsvag across a stark and rocky tundra landscape, where large herds of reindeer graze on sparse grasses in the summer. This desolate terrain dotted with small lakes is the only area in Norway where landscape and vegetation are genuinely arctic in character.

Trømso, Norway
Welcome to the top of the world. Tromsø is the largest city above the Arctic Circle and is a jumping-off point for Arctic explorations. Enjoy outdoor activities like dog sledding, whale watching and hiking. Visit the museum for insights into Lapp culture and see the city's strikingly modern Arctic Cathedral. If the time of year and weather permit, you can witness the Northern Lights above the stunning Arctic landscape.

Leknes, Norway
It’s easy to envision being at the helm of a Viking warship as you approach the Lofoten Islands along Norway’s northern coast. Jagged mountains stand against the sky and deep fjords drop to sheltered bays and windswept beaches. In Leknes, a small town of under 4,000 nestled on the island of Vestvågøy, wild nature abounds – watch for the rare sea eagles flying overhead. In town, admire the work of local artists drawn by the stunning surroundings and enjoy a taste of stockfish, dried cod that dates to the Viking days and staple of the Norwegian diet.

Ålesund, Norway
In 1904, much of Alesund was destroyed by fire, but the town was quickly rebuilt in the period’s popular Art Nouveau style. Soaring turrets, spires and beautiful ornamentation adorn the buildings throughout Alesund, giving it a distinctive flair and earning the town a revered architectural reputation. Explore its many attractions, such as the spectacular Art Nouveau Centre museum, scenic Town Park, and Atlantic Sea Park, one of Europe’s largest aquariums. For a look at modern Norwegian woodworking, visit the impressive Gallery Cylindra. Many of Alesund’s squares feature sculptures commemorating significant events, including the town’s rich fishing history and Norway’s contribution to World War II. Buy exquisite Norwegian fashions, jewelry, leather handbags, tapestries and glassworks. Alesund offers a wealth of restaurants serving everything from Norwegian seafood delicacies to international gourmet fare, ranging from Japanese to Italian.

Lerwick (Shetland Islands), Scotland
Explore Stone Age ruins, heather-covered moors and the rugged Scottish highlands in Lerwick, capital of the Shetland Island Archipelago. With its dramatic cliffs, Grand Victorian houses, charming Shetland ponies, and Nordic heritage Lerwick offers hours of entertainment. Set off on your own to get an historic overview at the Shetland Museum and Archives on the waterfront. Stroll through the numerous galleries and quaint shops looking for unique art, fine hand knitted sweaters made from the wool of Shetland Sheep and beautiful knitted lace. The local-made beer and whiskey is well worth a visit to a pub.

Invergordon, Scotland
Invergordon has a tremendous history stretching back through two World Wars. Ideally situated in the center of the eastern Highlands, Invergordon received its name from Sir William Gordon, a landowner of the 18th century. For centuries the estate on which Invergordon now stands was known as Inverbreakie, or “the mouth of the Breakie.” The Breakie presumably is the stream which enters the Firth at Rosskeen Bridge, near the old parish church west of the present Town.

Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland
Edinburgh is Scotland’s bustling capital city, renowned for its culture and traditions. At the center of the city, explore the World Heritage Site of Old Town and its historical area known as `Royal Mile` as you pass delightful multi-storied houses and quaint side streets. You may also visit the impressive St. Giles Cathedral, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, and known for its famous crown spire. Discover the Palace of Holyrood House, Scotland's primary Royal Palace. Dating from the late 15th century, it is the official Scottish residence of the Queen.

Tyne (Newcastle), United Kingdom
United by seven bridges, Tyne (Newcastle) is an exciting and diverse destination. One would never guess that this once shipbuilding city, is home to a vibrant nightlife, premium restaurants serving cuisine from around the world and fantastic galleries. Visit the Castle Keep, one of the country's finest examples of a Norman Keep. Or go to The Sage Gateshead for lively entertainment day and night. And with more theaters per person than anywhere in the UK, you will find world-class productions to suit all tastes.

Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium
Zeebrugge is the gateway to Bruges, the capital of the Belgian province of West Flanders. Bruges was a wealthy city during medieval times when trade with Baltic ports flourished. The Zwin River, connecting Bruges with the North Sea, slowly began to narrow, marking the end of the city's great trade period. Today, visitors flock to Bruges to enjoy the charming, well-preserved medieval architecture lining the old and narrow roads and canals and to see some of Western Europe's finest artistic masterpieces.

St. Peter Port (Guernsey), United Kingdom
Tiny, compact and brimming with history, St Peter Port is the capital and main port of Guernsey in the Channel Islands. A stroll along its steep, cobbled streets is like traipsing through the best of Europe: The 800-year-old Castle Cornet stands sentinel. A Town Church is housed in an historic chapel building. Candie Gardens offer breathtaking views across St Peter Port harbor. The Hauteville House, home to Victor Hugo from 1856-70, precisely preserves the Frenchman’s DIY surroundings when he wrote Les Misérables. And, of course, world-class dining and shopping options abound.

Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is located near the European Atlantic coast, in the north of the Aquitaine region in France. The city is built on a bend of the river Garonne, with the city literally divided into two parts. The world's wine capital, Bordeaux has about 60 appellations, 9,000 wine-producing châteaux, and 13,000 grape growers. With an annual production of over 700 million bottles, Bordeaux produces large quantities of everyday wine as well as the most expensive ones.

Biarritz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), France
Tucked in France’s Côte Basque, Biarritz first came to prominence in the mid-19th century when Napoleon III built a summer palace here for his wife, Empress Eugenie. The oceanside palace is now the esteemed Hotel du Palais, a landmark for the dynamic, beach-rimmed Biarritz. Surfing in France originated here in the late 1950s, and the sport has become synonymous with the city. You might watch surfers riding the waves that funnel into the Bay of Biscay, or simply comb the lovely beaches. Biarritz also has an urbane personality and museums dedicated to everything from Asian art to chocolate. Don’t miss the blue-domed Russian Orthodox Church, built for visiting Russian aristocrats in the 19th century. Pedestrian-friendly Biarritz is lined with fashion boutiques and shops selling French cheeses, wine, porcelain dolls, and Basque tablecloths. Enjoy Basque-influenced cuisine such as veal stew, cured ham dishes, tapas and foie gras.

La Coruña, Spain
La Coruna is a busy port on the Atlantic Ocean that provides a distribution point for agricultural goods from the region. It was the arrival of democracy in Spain after the death of Francisco Franco that caused a major growth in the city. The city is the site of the Roman Tower of Hercules, a lighthouse that has been in continuous operation for nearly 2,000 years. The city is also well-known for its characteristic glazed window balconies, called galerías.

Oporto, Portugal
Explore picturesque, historic Oporto and the Vila Nova de Gaia quarter, home of its signature port wine industry. Or discover Portugal’s scenic countryside and visit Guimaraes with its impressive medieval castle and beautiful Braga with its Bom Jesus shrine and superb cathedral. Look for gold and silver filigree jewelry, lovely azulejos tiles, porcelain, leather goods, needlepoint carpets and Madeiran lace and embroidery. Try a northern specialty - caldo verde, a soup of potatoes, shredded cabbage and smoked sausage, or appetizers including sheep’s cheese, olives and smoked ham. Fish and pork top most menus, accompanied by port wine.

Lisbon, Portugal
Legend states that Ulysses founded Lisbon, calling it Olisipo. Others claim that the name is Phoenician, but all agree it’s one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations. On All Saints’ Day in 1755 a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the city. The Baixa (Lower City) was rebuilt on neo-classical lines that still form the heart of the city. The elegant ‘City of Explorers’overlooks the River Tagus, and offers a number of distinctive neighborhoods to discover. Tour the Alfama, where the winding streets still retain much of their Moorish atmosphere. Stroll to Bairro Alto and hear the melodious sounds of Portugal’s Fado music. Nearby excursions transport you to the lavish 18th-century palace of Queluz and Sintra’s Royal Palace.

Seville (Cádiz), Spain
Cádiz, Andalusia's world-renowned capital, has undergone major restoration in recent years. Palm trees, gracious squares, flower-filled parks, ubiquitous red-tile roofed buildings, and bustling street markets make this a most delightful port. The old town, on the tip of the peninsula, is buzzing with beautiful, lively plazas. To get there, you pass through the new town, an elegant metropolis with excellent beaches. Cádiz is also a good starting point for a day trip to nearby Seville, where you can visit the Alcazar, a beautiful medieval Islamic palace showcasing a unique fusion of Christian and Moorish architecture surrounded by lovely gardens; majestic Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Sevilla); and Giralda Tower, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Barcelona, Spain
One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.