Sailings
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InsideOceanviewBalconySuite
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$9,389 USD $247.08 USD per day$11,049 USD $290.76 USD per day$11,719 USD $308.39 USD per day$20,779 USD $546.82 USD per day
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Date Date Location Location Arrival Arrival Departure Departure
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Sat, Oct 31, 2026 ATHENS (PIRAEUS) -- 5:00 pmSun, Nov 01, 2026 OLYMPIA (KATAKOLON) 1:00 pm 8:00 pmMon, Nov 02, 2026 SARANDE 8:00 am 3:00 pmTue, Nov 03, 2026 SIRACUSA, SICILY 1:00 pm 10:00 pmWed, Nov 04, 2026 CATANIA, (SICILY) 8:00 am 5:00 pmThu, Nov 05, 2026 SALERNO 9:00 am --Fri, Nov 06, 2026 SALERNO -- 4:00 pmSat, Nov 07, 2026 ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA) 6:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Nov 07, 2026 ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA) 6:30 am --Sun, Nov 08, 2026 FLORENCE / PISA (LIVORNO) 8:00 am --Mon, Nov 09, 2026 FLORENCE / PISA (LIVORNO) -- 8:00 pmTue, Nov 10, 2026 GENOA 8:00 am 8:00 pmWed, Nov 11, 2026 NICE 8:00 am 9:00 pmThu, Nov 12, 2026 PROVENCE (MARSEILLE) 8:00 am 10:00 pmFri, Nov 13, 2026 PALAMOS 8:30 am 7:00 pmSat, Nov 14, 2026 BARCELONA 6:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Nov 14, 2026 BARCELONA 6:30 am --Sun, Nov 15, 2026 VALENCIA 7:30 am 10:00 pmMon, Nov 16, 2026 CARTAGENA 11:00 am 6:00 pmTue, Nov 17, 2026 MALAGA 7:30 am 10:00 pmWed, Nov 18, 2026 GIBRALTAR 8:00 am 8:00 pmThu, Nov 19, 2026 SEVILLE 5:00 pm --Fri, Nov 20, 2026 SEVILLE -- --Sat, Nov 21, 2026 SEVILLE -- 4:00 pmSun, Nov 22, 2026 PORTIMAO 8:00 am 4:00 pmMon, Nov 23, 2026 LISBON 6:00 am 5:00 pmMon, Nov 23, 2026 LISBON 6:30 am --Tue, Nov 24, 2026 AT SEA -- --Wed, Nov 25, 2026 LANZAROTE, CANARY ISLANDS 1:00 pm 8:00 pmThu, Nov 26, 2026 TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS 8:00 am 6:00 pmFri, Nov 27, 2026 AT SEA -- --Sat, Nov 28, 2026 AT SEA 3:00 pm --Sun, Nov 29, 2026 AT SEA 3:00 pm --Mon, Nov 30, 2026 AT SEA 3:00 pm --Tue, Dec 01, 2026 AT SEA 3:00 pm --Wed, Dec 02, 2026 AT SEA 3:00 pm --Thu, Dec 03, 2026 AT SEA 3:00 pm --Fri, Dec 04, 2026 PHILIPSBURG 8:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Dec 05, 2026 CHARLOTTE AMALIE, ST. THOMAS 8:00 am 2:00 pmSun, Dec 06, 2026 AT SEA -- --Mon, Dec 07, 2026 AT SEA 3:00 pm --Tue, Dec 08, 2026 MIAMI, FLORIDA 6:00 am --Tue, Dec 08, 2026 MIAMI, FLORIDA 6:30 am --
Port
Arrival Port
WE'LL CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE THE WORLD.
Once upon a time, and not so very long ago, an ocean liner was the only way to see the world. Well, here at Azamara, we believe it still is.
In the span of one vacation, you can journey to multiple destinations with no packing or unpacking...or leaving items behind in the process. You don''t have to worry about missing a connecting flight or extra transportation costs, let alone finding a parking spot. (And on Azamara's smaller-sized ships, we can drop you off at the doorsteps of great cities like Nice, Seville, and Hong Kong.)
With the added convenience of "a floating hotel" that follows you all over the world, your accommodation costs are already covered. So you can spend more time enjoying your vacation, and a lot less time -and money- on figuring out where you are going to stay. When you go cruising, not only do you have a variety of restaurants to choose from, but your meals are also included along the way (and on Azamara ships, your drinks are, too).
And while planes, trains, and automobiles offer less than spacious seating and practically nothing to entertain you, on a cruise you'll be able to unwind in between ports with a wide choice of complimentary activities, nightly shows, and enrichment programs, or enjoy a little "me time" with spa treatments and personal training sessions. Finally, at the end of the day, you can fall asleep in a wonderfully comfortable stateroom with all the amenities of a boutique hotel, complete with 24-hour room service, and then wake up in a new town or country...or even continent.
So really, when you think about it, the question shouldn't be, "Why cruise?" but "Why not?"
The Pool
While spending daytime sun-drenched and relaxed by the pool,
don’t think of missing Azamara’s famous White Night party held at least once on
every cruise (weather permitting). Colorful decor and linen-draped tables, a
fabulous buffet feast, and boutique wines on the house make this an event like
no other. Not to forget the fun and fast-paced show our entertainment team puts
on.
Card room & in touch
On the starboard side of the Living Room, guests will find
the Card Room for those who love a round of Bridge or other games. Four
computers and interactive table tops are available for guest use during the
voyage.
The living room
The idea of the Living Room is just that. It’s the perfect
space for guests throughout the day and evening to engage in lively
conversations, take in interesting speakers, peruse art, play a game of cards,
enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, wines & tapas, delightful music, or simply
relax with a good book.
Sun Deck
This deck is available for guests enjoying the sun and views from high up. It is also a beautiful vantage point for sunsets (or sunrises), and a quiet stroll at night. For those who love shuffle board, this is the place to go.
Pool bar
Our Pool Bar serves refreshments while enjoying the Pool
during the day, and cocktails of your choice in the evening.
Discoveries Bar
Located just outside Azamara’s main restaurant, this
congenial bar is a favorite gathering place for pre- and post-dinner
conversation and drinks. Bar service includes a full selection of fine wines,
mixed drinks, and premium spirits.
Sunset bar
Adjacent to Windows Cafe, the Sunset Bar is a welcoming outdoor patio with covered and open-air seating, and a bar. It’s the perfect place for dining alfresco, enjoying a refreshing drink, taking in the sights of your favorite port, or simply watching the world sail by.
Spirits
And for all you sports fans, the Spirits bar adjacent to the Casino features a flat-screen TV and full bar, making it a very pleasant place to keep up with your favorite teams.
Fitness center
Keep up your fitness routine or embark on a new one in our
onboard Fitness Center. Take part in yoga at sunset or toning Pilates; our
onboard wellness consultant is there to assist you every step.
The sanctum spa
Let our Spa transport you to a whole new world with
treatments inspired by rituals from exotic cultures. You'll also find a hair
salon, the Sanctum Terrace with a Thalassotherapy pool, and an assortment of
the finest spa products. The Sanctum Spa also includes a nail bar and pedicure
area, and dedicated stations for barber services, teeth whitening, and hair
services, along with the Medi-spa and acupuncture clinic.
Cabaret Lounge
Enjoy live performances of professional full-stage musical
revues, classical soloists, bands and other entertainment in our Cabaret Lounge
featuring a full bar. You could see as many as four distinctly different shows
while onboard. And considering the cost of theater and entertainment tickets
back home, isn’t that nice?
The Den
Azamara Pursuit and Quest’s newest lounge exemplifies our dedication to Destination Immersion experiences. The Den inspires you with tools to travel to all corners of the world with travel books, guides, and destination-focused activities.
Aqualina Restaurant
At Aqualina, you’ll find some of Italy’s most authentic
dishes. Pastas made from scratch, traditional recipes, and scrumptious
vegetarian dishes that make sure there’s something for everyone. Plus our
famous desserts: Sorrento lemon liqueur mousse, hazelnut chocolate souffle and
more.
Prime C Restaurant
Your choice of steak, cooked to perfection. Herb-coated rack
of lamb, duck confit and Chilean sea bass—all paired with savory sides. At
Prime C, you’re in for more than delectable dining. Expect an great evening
with stunning views and lush decor.
Windows Cafe
Our daily themed dinner often takes its inspiration from the
region we’re visiting-Indian, Mexican, Spanish, Italian. We also create an
extra live station made from local ingredients purchased in port: Greek salad
made with local feta (Greece), pasta prepared with local mushrooms (Italy),
fresh Mussels served with garlic bread (Netherlands).
The Patio and Swirl & Top
Casual "pool grill" by day. A sit-down al fresco
dining experience by night. Taste your way around the world with exclusive
personalized dishes using local flavors of the places we visit. Plus a
self-serve frozen yogurt station-Swirl & Top. With a variety of flavors and
your choice of toppings, it’s the perfect way to cool off.
Discoveries Restaurant
Discover the world through dishes and flavors from the
places we visit. Of course, you’ll also enjoy a wide variety of nightly
selections such as filet mignon with black truffle sauce. Reservations are not
accepted. Choose being seated at a table for two or as part of a larger group
of fellow guests.
Mosaic Cafe
Stylish and cozy, Mosaic offers your favorite coffee drinks
exactly as you like them. Relax in a comfortable seat and enjoy. It’s the
perfect spot to start or end your day, and it just might become your favorite
place on the ship.
Indulgences
Aptly named, Indulgences will satisfy your desires for the
finer things in life. If you are looking for designer jewelry, it's the perfect
place to window shop or to find that extra special purchase.
The Quest shop
It's one-stop shopping in The Quest Shop. Apparel, sundries,
handbags, candies, souvenirs and lots more await. If you find that you forgot
to pack something, chances are you'll find it in The Quest Shop.
Photo shop
Our photographers capture both fun and professional photos
throughout the voyage, whether it is your portrait, or photos of the
destinations you visit. You can also find an assortment of supplies for your
own photographic endeavors.
This library is one of the quiet jewels of Azamara, a
peaceful and beautifully appointed space for reading or relaxing after dinner.
Browse the collection and feel free to borrow the library books.
Club Crooner
Step into a swanky nightclub as the great songs of the most
magnificent artists come alive on stage. From classic crooners such as Frank
Sinatra and Tony Bennett, to current songbirds such as Natalie Cole and Michael
Buble, there’s a song for every time and everyone. Enjoy a beverage, sit back,
and be serenaded by the melodies of our lives with CLUB CROONER!
Wanderlust
Get ready to be transported to the world’s most beloved
travel destinations in one exhilarating night. As we explore all four seasons
in a new city, travel along with our dynamic Signature Singers & Dancers as
they sing and dance their way through an eclectic mix of music from around the
world. Come and experience WANDERLUST!
Take Two
Get ready to grab your clicker and turn up the volume as we
take a trip down memory lane celebrating the most cherished movie soundtracks
of all time. As we flip through the channels together, you will be taken back
to a time when stars were born, the ring is open, and yes... ghosts really do
exist. We invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy the music of the movies!
Lights... Camera... ACTION! TAKE TWO!
Britrock!
Join your Signature Singers and Dancers, along with your
Azamara band, to celebrate the music that includes famous British musical
artists such as Adele, Dusty Springfield, Elton John, George Michael, The
Beatles and more! Azamara invites you to sing along, as we hit the playback
button and take a stroll down memory lane to relive the music that is BRITROCK!
- Refurbished: 2024
- Year Built: 2007
- Occupancy: 702
- Length: 592 feet (180 meters)
- Beam: 84 feet (25 meters)
- Cruise Speed: 18.5 knots
- Electric current: 110/220 AC
- Tonnage: 30,277
- Ship's Registry: Malta
Categories 04, 05, 06 with picture window. Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. Some staterooms feature sofa bed. 40" flat-screen TV. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet, terry bathrobes and slippers, 24-hour room service, "About Rose" toiletries sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries, welcome fruit basket at embarkation, fresh-cut flowers, tote bag, complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars, complimentary shoe-shine service, turndown treats, and daily news bulletin.
Catergory 05, picture window. Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. Some staterooms feature sofa bed. 40" flat-screen TV. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps. Stateroom door width: at least 32 inches. Bathroom door width: at least 32 inches. No doorsill to get into stateroom. Ramped bathroom thresholds. Bathroom grab bars. Lowered sink and stateroom vanity. Roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs. Fold-down shower bench. Lowered closet rod. Refrigerator in stateroom (upon request). Adjustable height commode chairs (upon request). Accessible balconies (selected staterooms).
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Category 08 with obstructed views. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed, some staterooms feature sofa bed, 40" flat-screen TV, veranda, refrigerator with mini-bar, thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe, and hand-held hairdryer.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet, terry bathrobes and slippers, 24-hour room service, "About Rose" toiletries sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries, welcome fruit basket at embarkation, fresh-cut flowers, tote bag, complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars, complimentary shoe-shine service, turndown treats, and daily news bulletin.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. 40" flat-screen television. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps. (158 square feet).
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. 40" flat-screen television. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps. Stateroom door width: at least 32 inches. Bathroom door width: at least 32 inches. No doorsill to get into stateroom. Ramped bathroom thresholds. Bathroom grab bars. Lowered sink and stateroom vanity. Roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs. Fold-down shower bench. Lowered closet rod. Refrigerator in stateroom (upon request). Adjustable height commode chairs (upon request). Accessible balconies (selected staterooms).
Sateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with elegant contemporary decor in 2016. Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom. Master bedroom with one king size bed and a 40" flat-screen television. 55" flat-screen television in living room. Marble master bathroom with shower.. Journey and Quest suites feature a tub.Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom. Spacious veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Completely refurbished with elegant contemporary decor in 2016. Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom. Master bedroom with one king size bed and a 40" flat-screen television. 55" flat-screen television in living room. Marble master bathroom with shower. Journey and Quest suites feature a tub.. Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom. Spacious veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size. Spacious and comfortable sitting area with 55" flat-screen television. Roomy bathroom with shower, some also feature a tub. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, veranda, refrigerator with mini-bar, thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe and hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size. Spacious and comfortable sitting area with 55" flat-screen television. Roomy bathroom with shower, some also feature a tub. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, veranda, refrigerator with mini-bar, thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe and hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Newly built suites in 2016 with an elegant organic decor. Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed. Spacious glass-enclosed bathtub. Separate rain shower. Comfortable sitting area. 55" flat-screen television in sitting area. In-room spa music. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. Sitting area with 40" flat-screen TV. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
- Stateroom Symbol Legend
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Wheelchair-Accessible stateroom
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Convertible Sofa Bed
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One Upper Berth
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Inside Stateroom Door Location
Deck Eleven
Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. In a single day, you can climb the hill of the Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and then find a welcoming taverna for some spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and with luck, energetic Greek dancing.
Katakolon is your gateway to Olympia, where the ancient Greeks flocked every four years for more than a millennium to celebrate the sacred games dedicated to Zeus. Visit the ruins of the Sanctuary, with its athletic quadrangles, stadium-temples and treasuries; then browse in the modern Archaeological Museum, a treasure house of Archaic, Classical and Roman sculptures, including the famous Niki "Winged Victory."
Steep, rugged Sicily had bred a race of fierce, funny and passionate people. From this important port, drive up the coast to visit Taormina. First Greeks, then Romans used this as a place of worship and reward. View the temples and the theater, Mt. Etna in the distance, or take a stroll and shop in the little village before you leave.
The port of Civitavecchia is the gateway to The Eternal City, where all roads lead. Mad traffic careens past monuments of the great civilizations of the past. You will want to see it all: the soaring inspiration of St. Peter's, the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel; the flow of life along the Spanish Steps, the Coliseum, the Via Veneto and Trevi Fountain. Be sure to leave time for la dolce vita in one of the piazzas.
The achievements of the Renaissance have been preserved and lovingly cared for by the city...artists like Botticelli and Michelangelo were encouraged to produce masterpieces like the Birth of Venus and David. Advancements in architecture, the likes of which hadn't been seen before in Europe... But before you think that Florence is a city trapped in the past, know that it is a highly modernized Italian town...Florence has also emerged as one of the leading shopping and dining destinations in Italy
Known as the "Queen of the Riviera" this cosmopolitan resort city is abundant in boutiques, nightclubs and museums, including the fascinating Chagal Museum. Browse along the elegant beachside Promenade des Anglais. Or, venture further along the Cote d'Azur to witness the galleries of Vence, Monte Carlo's glamorous casino, or Monaco's royal allure.
Marseille is France's second largest city, but it often goes unnoticed and unvisited by travelers... They are missing out on one of France's most diverse cities, both in terms of people and activities... Today, Marseille faces the same problems as any growing city. Crime is an issue, as is racial tension between the native French population and the arriving North African immigrants. Twenty-five percent of the population in Marseille is of North African descent, and that number is growing. But the city has come to embrace its newfound diversity, and is eager to put its best foot forward to attract a piece of the ever-growing tourism industry.
Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family.
...The weather almost never becomes too hot or uncomfortable, and the sights and smells of the land are marvelous...It is also Spain's main naval base...The landscaped squares of Cartagena are so magnificent that you can spend hours just sitting and looking...The buildings and religious structures of the city add to its wonderful culture, and a walking tour of Cartagena is great fun.
The Plaza de Merced, cathedrals, and museums of Malaga make it a remarkable site for studying the history and culture of Spain.The coastline that borders the city is magnificent, and it creates a wonderful backdrop to the ancient land.
One of the "Pillars of Hercules," Gibraltar is an historic landmark with British and Spanish influences. Guarding the entrance to the Atlantic, the great rock still serves as Britain's threshold to the Mediterranean. Take a cable car to the top of the rock for a spectacular view of two continents as well as the famous Barbary apes.
Lisbon is many cities, from the cobbled alleys of the Alfama district to the broad Parisian style avenues at its heart. View it all from the heights of St. George's Castle. Belem's Monument to the Discoveries recalls the seafaring past, while nearby Sintra's storybook palaces, and the seaside resort of Caiscais, have different tales to tell.
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.
The port of Santa Cruz has colorful markets and fine museums, but be sure to drive through the island's lush landscapes or enjoy the amazing views from the snow-capped peak of Spains highest mountain, 11,600-foot Mount Teide.
Dutch St. Maarten is a great place to stop just to shop. Its capital is Philipsburg and fills a narrow stretch of land between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond. It is a bustling center of international trade with lively shopping streets, cafes, and hotels. Strangely enough it has two main streets called Front Street and Back Street.
On Front Street, which is the main thoroughfare, duty-free shops line the road as far as the eye can see. These duty-free shops offer everything from Italian leather goods and Japanese cameras to native crafts. Don't be afraid to venture the alleyways that will lead you to arcades and courtyards filled with flowers.
The Courthouse is the most prominent landmark on Front Street. It is a grand white wooden structure topped with a cupola built in 1793. Front Street also includes the Simartin Museum so that visitors can get and excellent introduction to local St. Maartin history. There are also historical forts that are monuments to Philipsburg's strategic importance in St. Maarten's history.
Philipsburg has not been left behind in the time, however. It has combined its historical legacy with 20th century excitement. Since its waterfront has become a popular stop for cruise ships, the shore of this town is covered with restaurants, cafes and nightclubs that offer entertainment well into the night.
Charlotte Amalie is the Danish-flavored capital where it's fun to stroll and shop, especially if you're a U.S. citizen with double duty-free allowances. Hop a ferry to the nearby island of St. John, to snorkel or walk the nature trails, or head over to Magens Bay resort, listed as one of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Discover the cosmopolitan beauty of Miami along Florida's fabled Gold Coast. Stroll through carefully preserved Art Deco neighborhoods and witness the trendy lifestyle that is South Beach. Enjoy open-air shopping in the Bayside Marketplace and shop for a bite to eat in Coconut Grove, with its harborside cafes and quaint, artistic settings.