Civitavecchia (Rome), Genoa, Marseille (Provence), Barcelona, Gibraltar, Casablanca, Mindelo-, Salvador de Bahia, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires

Our gateway to the Eternal City, Civitavecchia has served as Rome's seaport since the 13th century, boasting a long and venerable history. Its location near the modern city, made it a perfect vacation resort for emperor Trajan, who built a pleasure villa. while Bernini and Michelangelo designed the harbor fortifications. Yet the Eternal City, the ancient capital of the Western World and the center of Christianity for nearly 2.000 years, is our main reason to be here. YYou can visit the ruins of the Forum and the Colosseum, throw a coin in Fontana di Trevi to make sure you return to Rome one day, take a photo in front of the Vatican, view the splendors of the Sistine Chapel or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter and enjoy a delicious gelato, in the glamorous area.

Today we are visiting Genoa, the capital of the Province of Genoa and of the region of Liguria, a powerful commercial center seaport and city-state. It was the birthplace of the great adventurer Christopher Columbus and its maritime roots have fostered a dialect that has absorbed elements of Neapolitan, Calabrese and Portuguese over the centuries. Genoa's harbor is a bustling swarm of activity, hosting a museum and an aquarium and has a magnificent medieval flair, ideal for a nice stroll. This port is our launching point for the sprawling metropolis of Milan.

Marseille is the largest port on the Mediterranean, France's second largest city and a virtual melting pot of peoples and cultures. It is a unique city with a feel and culture all its own. It is also a place of striking contrasts, from the fishing boats of the picturesque Vieux Port to the modern Canebiere. Dominating the harbor is the infamous Chateau d'If, the rocky prison from which Alexandre Dumas' "Count of Monte Cristo" escaped. If you have time, explore the countryside around Arles and Avignon, immortalized in the canvases of Van Gogh, Cezanne, Matisse and Picasso, try the renowned bouillabaisse or tour the lovely towns and vineyards of Provence. 

Barcelona is one of the world's greatest treasures, a global capital of commerce, fashion, culture and sunshine. Cruise visitors should start with a walk down Las Ramblas, the glorious tree-shaded thoroughfare at the heart of the city, enjoy a dive in the wonderful beaches nearby, but, most of all, see what visionary architect Antoni Gaudi wrought. Seven of his creations have been honored as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including La Sagrada Familia, the Park Guell and Casa Mila. Time provided, you can also visit the former Olympic Ring on the hill of Montjuic, home to world-class parks, fountains and museums. Barcelona, which nurtured such artistic giants as Picasso, Dali, Miro and Casals, is definitely a traveler's paradise.

Gibraltar is an amazing co-mingling of past, present and future.The Rock of Gibraltar was considerred by the Ancient Greeks as the pillars of Hercules, marking the end of the world. It is at the Top of the Rock where you begin to understand and appreciate Gibraltar’s strategic geographical location and the important role it has played throughout history. The journey to the top of the Rock rewards you with a truly breathtaking view. From a height of 426m you will see the African coastline, where the waters of the Atlantic meet the Mediterranean, Spain’s Costa del Sol and a panoramic view of the City far below, the quays, marinas and bays. Stand on top of the Rock of Gibraltar and you feel as if you were on top of the world.

Casablanca is Morocco's largest city and port. Its most notable sights are Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the Islamic world and is known for its majestic 200-metre-high minaret, Place Mohammed V, flanked by majestic white government buildings constructed in the distinct French colonial style, Parc De La Ligue Arabe, the city's largest public park and La Corniche, the main beach area with lots of waterfront restaurants. From the city of Bogart and Bergman, take a tour to Rabat, Morocco's serene capital and to Marrakech, city of souks, storytellers, snake charmers and the famed Koutoubia Minaret.

Mindelo is located on the volcanic island of São Vicente, in Cape Verde. Mindelo is the cultural capital of the Cape Verde Islands which lie off North Africa's tropical coast. It is a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant night life and Afro-Portuguese influences. On the waterfront, near the fish market, there is a replica of Lisbon’s Belem Tower. The Cape Verdean singer Cesaria Evora started her career singing in Mindelo.

Salvador da Bahia is the largest city on the northeast coast of Brazil. The Historic Centre of the city is renowned for its Portuguese colonial architecture and it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The beaches are ideal for swimming, sailing, diving, surfing and underwater fishing.

Rio de Janeiro is the capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil's primary tourist resort. The landmarks of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Christ statue, the spectacular beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, the sensual rhythm of samba dance, the Carnival and the passionate and friendly people are only some of the reasons that Rio is such a favorite destination.

Rio de Janeiro is the capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil's primary tourist resort. The landmarks of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Christ statue, the spectacular beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, the sensual rhythm of samba dance, the Carnival and the passionate and friendly people are only some of the reasons that Rio is such a favorite destination.

Buenos Aires is the capital of Argentina, located on the western shore of the estuary of the Río de la Plata, on the southeastern coast of the continent. Buenos Aires is known as one of the street art capitals of the world, with huge murals covering its tall buildings. La Boca area offers the tourists some authentic Argentine sights. If you travel to Buenos Aires you must definitely get some experience of the Tango, the national dance of Argentina.

Buenos Aires is the capital of Argentina, located on the western shore of the estuary of the Río de la Plata, on the southeastern coast of the continent. Buenos Aires is known as one of the street art capitals of the world, with huge murals covering its tall buildings. La Boca area offers the tourists some authentic Argentine sights. If you travel to Buenos Aires you must definitely get some experience of the Tango, the national dance of Argentina.