Portugal, Morocco & Spain
Cruise: Lisbon, Tangier &
Tenerife

Lisbon

Lisbon has somewhat rediscovered itself in recent years,
reclaiming its rightful place as the 'golden city' of southern
Europe. Much of this is due to the officials of Lisbon having
elected to rejuvenate the city during the 1990s. This ongoing focus
on the future has meant making the most of the attractions, both
old and new.

One day can span centuries as visitors move between the
picturesque medieval section of the Alfama district and historic
São Jorge castle to being amazed by the spectacle of the futuristic
Oceanarium of Lisboa.

Infrastructure has also been improved, with additions like the
impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge across the River Tagus, which links
the city's airport to a network of national motorways and has
facilitated access to other parts of Portugal. There is also a new
showcase railway hub, the Gare de Oriente, which is the pride of a
new modern suburb on the east bank of the Tagus, creating an even
better link between Lisbon and the rest of Europe. But if tourists
really want to see the city in style, they must be sure not to miss
a ride on the famous Tram 28, which winds its way through the
oldest parts of the city and gives visitors a feel of the history
and rich culture Lisbon has to offer.

Cádiz

Cadiz is a captivating city located on the southwestern coast of Spain. It is the capital of the province of Cadiz and holds the title of being the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Iberian Peninsula. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, Cadiz is a destination that has something to offer to every kind of traveler.

One of the main attractions of Cadiz is its historical significance. The city dates back to around 1100 BC, making it not only one of the oldest cities in Spain but also in Europe. As you stroll through the narrow winding streets of the Old Town, you can immerse yourself in the centuries of history that the city has to offer. The Cadiz Cathedral, built between the 18th and 19th centuries, is a beautiful example of baroque and neoclassical architecture and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Cadiz is also known for its incredible beaches. Playa de la Caleta, located right in the heart of the city, is a picturesque beach with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It is the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the sea. Another popular beach, Playa de la Victoria, stretches for more than three kilometers and offers a variety of water sports activities such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.

In addition to its fascinating history and stunning beaches, Cadiz is a city that is alive with culture and entertainment. The annual Cadiz Carnival is one of the most famous in Spain and attracts visitors from all over the world. During this time, the city transforms into a hub of vibrant costumes, music, and dancing. The carnival is a celebration of joy and freedom, and you can join in the fun by participating in the street parades or attending the numerous concerts and shows that take place throughout the festival.

Food lovers will also find themselves in paradise in Cadiz. The city boasts a diverse culinary scene that showcases the best of Andalusian cuisine. From freshly caught seafood to traditional tapas, you will find a wide variety of dishes to tantalize your taste buds. Be sure to try local specialties such as fried fish, gazpacho, and the famous Cadiz yellow rice with seafood.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Cadiz offers plenty of opportunities to explore its natural beauty. The Tarifa coastline, located just a short drive from the city, is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. You can go windsurfing, kitesurfing, or even take a boat trip to spot dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar.

Getting around Cadiz is convenient and easy. The city has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it simple to explore both the city and its surroundings. Cadiz is also a great base for day trips to nearby attractions such as the charming town of Jerez de la Frontera, famous for its sherry wine production, or the ancient ruins of Baelo Claudia in the nearby town of Tarifa.

In conclusion, Cadiz is a fascinating and beautiful city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and stunning beaches to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, it is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you are a history buff, a beach lover, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Cadiz is the perfect place to visit.

Tangier

For decades, between 1920 and the late 1950s, Tangier was a
playground for the rich and famous as well as artists and
adventurers from all walks of life. Tangier attracted those seeking
a tax haven or a mystic destination, from authors and artists, to
spies and aristocrats. Regular visitors included the likes of
Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, and Woolworth heiress, Barbara
Hutton.

When Spain relinquished Tangier back to Morocco in 1960, its
duty-free status went with it, and the city lost a great deal of
its flair. However, tourism is on the up once more, with visitors
succumbing to the city's proximity to Europe and discovering that
its decayed grandeur still has much to offer, from its palm-lined
promenade and sandy beach, to the old town and its outlying
villages and resorts. Despite its fall from glory, a stylish cafe
society has once again begun to build up in modern day Tangier's
boulevards, and the merchants in the medina (old quarter) are doing
good trade with tourists exploring its maze of narrow streets, all
of which are within sight of the Spanish coast across the straits
of Gibraltar.

Tenerife

Budget airlines and affordable fares have turned Spain into a beach resort haven for northern Europeans wishing to escape their own (sometimes) damp and dreary climates. With sun-bleached beaches and a favourable exchange rate for most travellers, it's easy to see why Spain is such a popular choice for an unforgettable beach holiday in Europe. An incredible 53 million people visit Spain each year (the second most in Europe after France), and the country deserves its formidable reputation as a tourist haven.

Some may feel that the Canary and Balearic Islands have been overrun by tourists, and this is true to some extent. Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Mallorca have become synonymous with cheap package holidays and warm beer, and Ibiza's reputation has been somewhat tarnished by the revellers frequenting its famous dance clubs and beach parties. However, even in these crowded resort areas you will find many magical, unspoilt corners awaiting discovery.

Spain is comprised of numerous autonomous regions, offering great variation within one country. The hundreds of miles of Mediterranean coastline provide ample opportunity to get off the beaten track, and the country's vibrant cities and colourful festivals will amaze and delight even the most seasoned traveller. Art lovers can get lost in the Spain of Gaudi, Dali, and Picasso, of Goya and Velazquez - proudly displayed in the country's museums and galleries.

Spain's Pamplona is a unique experience of thundering streets that vibrate to the rhythm of man and beast during the annual running of the bulls, and while the whole country celebrates each February with the Carnaval, no place does it better than Sitges.

Barcelona is Spain's showcase of the unique architectural style of Gaudi's bizarre organic turrets and balconies. For a more provincial experience, the Valencian town of Buñol goes wild every year with the La Tomatina festival, a time when the region's surplus tomatoes following the annual harvest are dumped on the streets and pelted about in a friendly riot.

Spain is also a country rich in heritage, and the historic cities of Toledo, Salamanca, Seville, and Granada promise a wealth of early Christian and Moorish buildings and monuments, as well as the remains of some incredible medieval sites. Spain has six cities that have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites, more than any other country in the world.

San Sebastian de la Gomera

Known as the ‘Round Isle’, La Gomera is one of the oldest and smallest of the Canary Islands. Perhaps overshadowed by the obvious charms of its neighbour, Tenerife, from a distance this cone-shaped volcanic isle with its massive grey skyline can appear foreboding. But once ashore, a different world awaits discovery. Steep valleys and ravines hide a host of surprises such as terraced fields and laurel rain forests. The climb to the top of the island reveals breathtaking views and some rare flora and fauna in the mist-covered heights of Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a relatively modest tourist industry and less explored than its neighbouring islands, La Gomera is a fascinating place to visit. San Sebastian is the capital and main port of the island, set on the east coast and with a distinctly rural feel, with a few small plazas and colourful houses lining the hillside. The port is famous for its visit by Christopher Columbus, who stopped here in 1492 before sailing to the Americas.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The third largest but most developed of the seven
islands in the Spanish-administered Canary archipelago, Gran
Canaria has been billed as a miniature continent because of the
variety of climates and landscapes that it offers, from the big
city bustle of the capital, Las Palmas, to the serenity of its lush
woodlands.

The Canary Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean, about
125 miles (200km) from the African coast and almost 800 miles
(1,280km) from the closest European port of Cadiz. Gran Canaria is
almost circular, with a diameter of about 32 miles (50km), and is
characterised by deep ravines that radiate out from the centre down
to the coast.

The north of the island is humid and lush, with green
valleys and volcanic craters, while the south is arid and
desert-like, with vast stretches of sandy beach. The interior of
Gran Canaria has steep highlands dotted with small villages,
sporting white houses with red roofs, banana plantations, and
orchards bursting with tropical fruits.

Tourists generally favour the southern coastline,
flocking to the well-known beaches of Playa del Inglés or
Maspalomas, where the sea washes soft sands and empty dunes stretch
for miles. The capital, Las Palmas, lies on the northeast tip of
the island, between two long beaches, Las Caletas, and
Alcaravaneras.