6 Night Pacific Coastal
Cruise

Los Angeles, California

Millions of visitors arrive each year in Los Angeles, eager to
experience first-hand the famed land of modern mythology, wondrous
optimism and immense creativity. The fantasy worlds of Disneyland
and Hollywood, the extravagance of Beverley Hills and Malibu, and
the sun-soaked beach culture are just some of the attractions
within the 'City of Angels'.

Los Angeles is not really a city but rather a sprawling
metropolis constituting more than 80 smaller city areas woven
together by a daunting network of traffic-congested freeways
without a clearly defined centre. LA is just one of these cities
with Downtown at its heart, and lying outside the city limits is
the surrounding conglomeration of cities that comprise LA
County.

Los Angeles offers a dazzling variety of attractions and
world-famous amusements. Downtown is a mixture of cultures and
local communities: the traditional herbalists of Chinatown's Bamboo
Lane; Little Tokyo with its sushi bars and Japanese gardens; and
the narrow Latino-influenced Olvera Street. Los Angeles County is
endowed with a rich diversity of backgrounds and a mix of people
from 140 countries speaking 96 different languages.

West Hollywood: the focal point of gay and lesbian culture, the
posh beachside resort of Santa Monica, body-builders at Muscle
Beach and the childhood fantasy of Disneyland all add to LA's
diversity. There are exciting museums, cinemas featuring every
conceivable production, fashionable boutiques, comedy clubs, poetry
readings and coffee house recitals, and music of every kind played
in various venues throughout the city.

Underneath the huge 'Hollywood' sign on the crest of the
Hollywood Hills, the high energy and pleasure-seeking atmosphere,
bold billboards, beautiful sun-bronzed people, bright lights and
fancy cars are images of a city that everyone loves to hate; but
whether one likes what one finds or not, Los Angeles must be
experienced at least once in a lifetime.

Astoria, Oregon

Astoria, located on the picturesque Oregon Coast in the United States, is a charming and vibrant small town with a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. With its unique blend of coastal vibes, art scenes, outdoor activities, and historical landmarks, Astoria offers something for every traveler.

One of the main attractions of Astoria is its stunning location at the mouth of the Columbia River, where it meets the Pacific Ocean. This prime location makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking along the rugged coastline to kayaking, boating, and fishing on the Columbia River, there is no shortage of activities for adventure seekers.

Astoria is also home to several beautiful and expansive parks, including the Astoria Column. This iconic landmark stands tall on Coxcomb Hill and provides visitors with panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Climb to the top for an unforgettable experience and don't forget to bring your camera!

For history buffs, Astoria is a goldmine. As the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, the town is steeped in history. The Columbia River Maritime Museum is a must-visit, offering a fascinating insight into the region's maritime heritage. The museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and even allows visitors to step aboard a real Coast Guard cutter.

Another historical gem in Astoria is the Flavel House Museum. This beautifully restored Victorian mansion was once the residence of Captain George Flavel and his family. Step back in time as you explore the opulent rooms filled with period furnishings and learn about the Flavel family's influence on the local community.

Astoria's downtown area is a vibrant hub filled with art galleries, eclectic boutiques, and cozy cafes. Stroll along the charming streets, admire the vibrant murals adorning the buildings, and discover unique treasures in the local shops. Every second Saturday, the town hosts an Art Walk, where local artists showcase their work, making it the perfect time to soak in the creative energy of the community.

Food lovers will delight in Astoria's culinary scene. From fresh seafood straight from the Pacific Ocean to farm-to-table eateries serving up locally sourced ingredients, there is a wide range of dining options to satisfy any palate. Don't forget to try the famous fish and chips or sample some craft beer from one of the town's breweries.

Astoria is also a gateway to other stunning coastal destinations in the area. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the charming beach town of Seaside, with its iconic promenade and sandy shores. Cannon Beach, famous for its impressive Haystack Rock and miles of pristine coastline, is also within reach and shouldn't be missed.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, a taste of history, artistic inspiration, or just a peaceful coastal getaway, Astoria captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest. With its unique charm and warm hospitality, this coastal gem is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

Seattle, Washington

Rated as one of the world's most liveable
cities, the Emerald City boasts among its citizens three out of the
world's ten richest men, including IT mogul Bill Gates The city's
emergence as a trend-setting and fashionable metropolis with
sky-high property prices has occurred in less than 200 years, since
it was founded in 1869.

Sitting at the extremity of the United
States' northwest, at the gateway to Canada, Seattle reaches for
the sky with its landmark soaring Space Needle. Built in the 1960s,
this modern monument epitomises the city's image as a high-tech,
dynamic and young community.

Seattle sits on the shores of two large
lakes and Puget Sound, with remote wilderness less than an hour
away, and it is flanked by two major mountain ranges (Olympics and
Cascades), with Mount Rainier in full view from the city. It is
also within easy reach of the San Juan Islands, Pacific Ocean
beaches and major rivers. Visitors and locals alike revel in the
outdoor activities the city's situation provides for.

This active city lends itself to walking
tours, particularly around the two main tourist areas, the
waterfront and Pike Place Market. In addition, 80 percent of the
city limits are surrounded by water, so tour boats also abound. To
fully enjoy Seattle be prepared to go boating and bring a
comfortable pair of shoes.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia is a beautiful and historic city located on the southeastern tip of Vancouver Island. Founded in 1843 as a Hudson's Bay Company fort, Victoria quickly grew into a prosperous city and became the capital of the British colony of Vancouver Island in 1866. Today, Victoria is a popular tourist destination known for its mild climate, Victorian architecture, and beautiful natural setting.

While there are many things to see and do in Victoria, some of the most popular attractions include the Royal BC Museum, the Butchart Gardens, and Beacon Hill Park. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to nearby Vancouver or take a day trip to the nearby Gulf Islands.

No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to love in Victoria, British Columbia.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is bustling, vibrant and diverse.
This gem on Canada's west coast boasts the perfect combination of
wild natural beauty and modern conveniences. Its spectacular views
and awesome cityscapes are a huge lure not only for visitors but
also for big productions, and it's even been nicknamed Hollywood
North for its ever-present film crews.

Less than a century ago, Vancouver was
barely more than a town. Today, it's Canada's third largest city
and more than two million people call it home. The shiny futuristic
towers of Yaletown and the downtown core contrast dramatically with
the snow-capped mountain backdrop, making for postcard-pretty
scenes.

Approximately the same size as the downtown
area, the city's green heart is Canada's largest city park, Stanley
Park, covering hundreds of acres filled with lush forest and
crystal clear lakes. Visitors can wander the sea wall along its
exterior, catch a free trolley bus tour, enjoy a horse-drawn
carriage ride or visit the Vancouver Aquarium housed within the
park.

The city's past is preserved in historic
Gastown with its cobblestone streets, famous steam-powered clock
and quaint atmosphere. Neighbouring Chinatown, with its weekly
market, Dr Sun Yat-Sen classical Chinese gardens and intriguing
restaurants add an exotic flair. For some retail therapy or
celebrity spotting, there is always the trendy Robson Street.

During the winter months, snow sports are
the order of the day on nearby Grouse Mountain. It's perfect for
skiing and snowboarding, although the city itself gets more rain
than snow. Vancouver's ethnic diversity and ideal combination of
mountains, sea and city offer visitors an endless supply of things
to see and do, no matter the budget.