Empires & The Empire
State

Abu Dhabi

The brash, bold city of Abu Dhabi is a modern marvel, capital of
the wealthy United Arab Emirates and headquarters of the world's
richest oil operating companies. The pulsating city, with
futuristic skyscrapers and wide tree-lined boulevards, is
capitalising on its sophistication, amazing duty-free shopping
zone, luxury hotels and top-class transport and communication
infrastructure to attract tourists. They come not only for the
'retail therapy' and glitz, but also to explore the fascinating
culture of the vast Abu Dhabi Emirate itself (it is the largest of
the seven Emirates), with its miles of desert and interesting
oases.

The city juts out into the Persian Gulf, with land having been
reclaimed from the sea to make way for a long seafront Corniche
lined with lush gardens and gushing fountains. It is a relatively
young city, the area having been first settled by nomadic tribesmen
in the mid-18th century. It remained little more than a fishing
village until oil was discovered in the 1950s and the financial and
trading boom began.

Today the international airport and deep water port bring in
visitors from around the world, most clutching credit cards and
cash, set on spending as much as possible in the enticing shopping
malls and buzzing souk (market). Limousines are a common sight in
the congested streets, and restaurants that offer the cuisine of
many nations do a roaring trade, especially along the waterfront.
Shopping fever is at its height during the annual Shopping
Festival. Those taking a break from modern luxury can escape to the
desert for a Bedouin feast under the stars, or a camel ride through
the dunes.

Cruising the Gulf of Oman

Cruising the Arabian Sea

Salalah

Salalah, located in the beautiful country of Oman, is a hidden gem that boasts natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Nestled along the Arabian Sea, Salalah offers visitors a unique experience unlike any other destination in the Middle East. With its pleasant climate, lush landscapes, and welcoming locals, it's no wonder that Salalah has become a popular destination among travelers seeking an authentic Arabian experience.

One of the main highlights of Salalah is its stunning natural beauty. The city is blessed with a unique microclimate known as "khareef," which creates a lush green landscape during the monsoon season. The rolling hills, waterfalls, and a network of wadis or valleys, give Salalah a refreshing and picturesque charm. Visitors can explore the famous wadis such as Wadi Darbat and Wadi Shuwaymiyah, where they can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature by taking a walk, having a picnic, or even swimming in the crystal clear waters.

Salalah is also renowned for its pristine beaches, stretching along the coast for miles. The beaches offer visitors a chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy the warm Arabian sun. Popular beach destinations include Al-Mughsail Beach, which is known for its blowholes and rock formations, and Ayn Razat Beach, known for its tranquil turquoise waters. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or indulge in adrenaline-pumping water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving, Salalah's beaches have something for everyone.

In addition to its natural beauty, Salalah is steeped in cultural richness and history. The city is well-known for its annual Salalah Festival, which showcases traditional Omani music, dance, and folklore. Visitors can witness vibrant performances of the famous "Ardah" dance, traditional music concerts, and camel races. The festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant culture of Oman and interact with locals.

For history enthusiasts, Salalah is home to numerous historical sites that showcase the city's ancient past. The most notable among them is the ancient ruins of Al-Baleed, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you wander through the impressive remains of the ancient port city, you can envision life in the past and explore the museum that houses artifacts from the region's rich maritime history.

Salalah also offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. From hiking in the impressive Dhofar Mountains to exploring the vast desert landscapes, there is no shortage of thrilling experiences in this region. Visitors can embark on a 4x4 journey to the stunning Qara Mountains, home to charming villages, frankincense trees, and breathtaking views. The nearby Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve is a nature lover's paradise, offering the opportunity to spot wildlife such as Arabian leopards, gazelles, and a wide variety of bird species.

Lastly, no visit to Salalah would be complete without indulging in its exquisite cuisine. The city is known for its delicious Omani dishes such as Shuwa, a traditional slow-cooked lamb dish, and Majboos, a spiced rice dish with meat. Visitors can also savor freshly caught seafood delicacies and enjoy Omani coffee, known as "kahwa," along with dates and halwa, a traditional Omani sweet treat.

In conclusion, Salalah is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and historical significance. With its year-round pleasant climate, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality, it is an ideal getaway for those seeking an authentic Arabian experience. Whether you're exploring its lush wadis, relaxing on its pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in its lively festivals, Salalah will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Oman.

Cruising the Arabian Sea

Cruising the Gulf of Aden

Red Sea Seas

Jeddah

Red Sea Seas

Safaga

On the coast of the Red Sea is the port town of Safaga, Egypt. It offers a range of ancient historical sightseeing, water sports and a dip in its healing mineral waters. This picturesque landscape has all kinds of adventures to offer. The town is best known for its phosphate mines, diving opportunities and beautiful reefs and also attracts tourists year round with its warm climate and attractive landscape.

'Aqaba

As Jordan's only outlet to the sea, the tourist resort of Aqaba
is known for its fantastic diving opportunities, mild winter
climate and sandy beaches. Situated on the tip of the Red Sea in
southern Jordan on the Gulf of Aqaba, the town's greatest
attraction lies offshore in the colourful coral reefs that are
rated as the best in the world. These boast an incredible marine
life and provide wonderful opportunities for divers and snorkelers
in the clear waters year-round.

Besides underwater escapades, Aqaba is an ideal location for
swimming, water-skiing, parasailing, fishing or sunbathing. For the
history enthusiast, Aqaba contains sites dating back to 4000 BC,
including the recent discovery of what is believed to be the
world's oldest church (3rd century), the remains of the medieval
walled city of Ayla and a Mamluk fort. These are proof of Aqaba's
strategic position as the main port on the trading route to the Far
East from Africa in ancient times, which made it a thriving town,
and it is this same location today that makes it an important
tourist centre. It is also conveniently situated for excursions to
the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum and the ancient rock
city of Petra.

Suez Canal Transit

Haifa

Haifa is an attractive seaport and one of the most culturally
mixed cities in the country. The Israeli saying 'Haifa works,
Jerusalem prays, Tel Aviv plays' hints at the destination's
blue-collar roots.

Regarding culture, the Haifa Theatre, the Krieger Centre for
Performing Arts, and the Ein Hod artists' colony are all
well-established and worth visiting. Haifa also hosts an annual
(and well-attended) International Film Festival.

There are many interesting attractions in the city, including a
wealth of museums, gorgeous temples and mosques, and sunny,
child-friendly beaches. For those fascinated with biblical history,
Tel Megiddo, the supposed site of the end of the world, is located
about 20 miles (32km) southwest of Haifa.

The majority of Haifa's visitors go there for the amazing
gardens of the Baha'í World Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
once known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa. This magical place has
a golden shrine and lovingly maintained terraces, and is deemed by
Baha'i followers as a 'gift to all humanity'. The beauty of the
gardens and the amount of care that goes into their upkeep is both
palpable and inspiring. They're one of Israel's most-visited
tourist attractions, welcoming over half a million visitors every
year.

Limassol

Then known as Lemesos, Richard the Lionheart visited
Limassol during the Crusades to free his betrothed from the
Byzantine sovereign. The subsequent wedding party remains
legendary, probably why modern Limassol is still a centre of
. This lively ambience is aided and abetted
by the fact that Limassol is the centre of winemaking on the
island.

Today, it's Cyprus's second-largest city with around
200,000 inhabitants. Many people travel to Limassol to enjoy its
lovely beaches, sidewalk cafés, and lively nightlife. Visitors can
take an evening stroll on the seafront Akti Olympion, followed by a
visit to a traditional
tavern for live music. The Old Town radiates from
the fishing harbour, with narrow streets lined with shops and
boutiques.

The foothills of the Troodos Mountains lie north of
the city and offer charming country walks that meander through
friendly villages. A quick drive to the Kourion, only nine miles
(15km) away, also offers historic sites such as The House of
Achilles, the Altar of Apollo, and Curium Beach.

Rhodes

Knights once used Rhodes to protect the Christian west from the
east. Today, the island remains subject to invasion, though from
tourists rather than intruders.

Said to be Greece's sunniest island, Rhodes has a well-preserved
and picturesque old city. The legendary Colossus of Rhodes, one of
the Seven Wonders of the World, guarded its harbour in antiquity.
Present-day visitors will find statues of deer. Nevertheless, the
old city has plenty of wonders to offer.

The rest of the relatively large island offers miles of beaches,
interesting archaeological sites and natural beauty spots. The best
beaches are on the east coast. Lindos is especially attractive.
Faliraki, on the other hand, is a developed resort area, bustling
with young visitors.

Kusadasi

Kusadası is a large resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast, and the centre of the seaside district of the same name within Aydın Province. Kusadası is 95 km (59 mi) south of İzmir, and about 60 km (37 mi) from Aydın. The municipality's primary industry is tourism. Kusadası is a hugely popular tourist destination due to its perfect combination of culture, amazing beaches and fantastic things to eat and do. The area features several well-known local beaches, including Ladies Beach, the beach at the centrum, the beaches between the Batıhan Hotel and the Nazilli Site, the beach at Güzelçamlı, and the Dilek Peninsula National Park beach, referred to by locals as simply Milli Park.

Piraeus

Athens exudes a unique charm through its mix of street markets,
vine-covered tavernas, souvenir stalls, ancient monuments and
high-rise buildings. For tourists, a plus is that most of the
capital's attractions are accessible by foot.

Athens was named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom.
According to mythology, she won the city after duelling against
Poseidon, god of the sea. Indeed, Athens can chart its history back
thousands of years and is regarded as the cradle of Western
civilisation. More specifically, it's democracy's birthplace, and
where philosophy, art and architecture were refined.

The city declined after the Classical Age, dwindling to nothing
but a town in the colourful area now known as the Plaka. It emerged
as independent Greece's capital in 1834.

Today, the city is bustling. And though the pollution, frantic
gridlock and dingy buildings are a striking contrast to the open
beauty of Greece's coast and islands, Athens is truly the country's
beating heart. Ancient wonders like the Acropolis, the Parthenon,
and the Temples of Zeus and Hephaestus ensure that the city will
always lure travellers.

Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Sorrento

Sorrento is a coastal town in southwestern Italy, facing the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula. Perched atop cliffs that separate the town from its busy marinas, it’s known for sweeping water views and Piazza Tasso, a cafe-lined square. The historic center is a warren of narrow alleys that's home to the Chiesa di San Francesco, a 14th-century church with a tranquil cloiste

Civitavecchia

Rome is like a living museum, liberally
dotted with fascinating ruins, ancient relics and archaeological
sites. Centuries are peeled back from the Eternal City with each
new vista in this great metropolis of fearsome gladiators and
gorgeous art. Vespas, sports cars and nippy Fiats speed past trendy
sidewalk cafes, bistros and nightclubs, revealing the Rome of
Fellini's La Dolce Vita, while the stark facades of the Stadio
Olimpico reminds visitors of Mussolini's attempts to reinvent the
architecture of the Caesars.

For a taste of the Baroque, visitors need
only climb the famous Spanish Steps, walk through the Piazza Navona
or toss a coin into the beautiful Trevi Fountain. Renaissance
splendour is best revealed in the Vatican Palace, specifically
Michelangelo's efforts on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. From
early Christian Basilicas and the Roman Forum to the Colosseum and
the Pantheon, the sequence of history trails back to the dizzying
heights of the empire.

It may sound like a city of contrasts, but
Rome's timeless magic lies in its ability to blend the old with the
new. Empires have risen and fallen, old gods have been replaced
with the new, but Rome nonetheless remains.

Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Tarragona

Tarragona is a vibrant city located in the Catalonia region of Spain. Situated on the Costa Dorada, Tarragona offers a mix of ancient Roman history, stunning beaches, and a lively cultural scene. With its rich heritage and picturesque surroundings, it is no wonder that Tarragona is becoming an increasingly popular destination for tourists.

The city boasts an impressive Roman legacy, with its well-preserved archaeological sites being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the must-visit attractions is the Tarragona Amphitheatre, which was once used for gladiator fights and can accommodate up to 14,000 spectators. The Roman Circus, a former chariot racing arena, is another fascinating site to explore. The Tarragona National Archaeological Museum provides detailed information about the Roman history of the region.

Apart from its Roman ruins, Tarragona has a charming old town, known as Part Alta, where visitors can wander through narrow streets lined with medieval buildings and picturesque squares. The Cathedral of Tarragona, which dates back to the 12th century, is a prominent landmark in Part Alta and offers panoramic views of the city from its bell tower.

Tarragona's location on the Costa Dorada makes it the perfect destination for beach lovers. The city has several sandy beaches, such as Playa del Miracle, Playa Arrabassada, and Playa Larga, which offer clean waters and ample space for sunbathing. In addition to relaxing on the beach, visitors can also enjoy water sports, such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and paddleboarding.

For those interested in exploring nature, Tarragona is home to the Ebro Delta Natural Park. This expansive wetland area is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds inhabiting the park. Visitors can take guided boat tours or hike through the park's trails to appreciate its diverse flora and fauna.

Tarragona is also well-known for its vibrant festivals and events. The most famous of these is the Santa Tecla Festival, which takes place every September. This week-long celebration includes traditional dances, parades, and fireworks, giving visitors an authentic taste of Catalan culture. Another popular event is the Human Tower Competition, where teams compete to build the tallest human tower, or "castell," in the city center.

Food enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to try the local cuisine in Tarragona. The region is known for its seafood, and visitors can indulge in delicious dishes like paella, grilled prawns, and fresh fish. The city also has a vibrant tapas scene, with numerous bars and restaurants offering a variety of small plates to share.

In terms of transportation, Tarragona is well-connected. The city has its own airport, Reus Airport, which offers domestic and international flights. Alternatively, Barcelona El Prat Airport is less than an hour's drive away. Tarragona is also accessible by train and bus, making it an easily accessible destination.

Overall, Tarragona offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, lounging on the beach, or immersing yourself in Catalan traditions, Tarragona has something to offer every type of traveler. Its warm Mediterranean climate, friendly locals, and abundance of attractions make it a top choice for those seeking an unforgettable vacation in Spain.

Alicante

Lying on the eastern coast of Spain, the Costa Blanca draws
millions of tourists each year to its turquoise waters and miles of
white, sandy beaches. Alicante is the capital and major city on
this stretch of coast, but it is Benidorm that attracts the most
visitors, and this is the place to go for those looking for a
lively and entertaining holiday with hundreds of bars and all-night
clubs. However there is more to the Costa Blanca than crowded beach
resorts: within the mountainous interior there are a series of
fascinating medieval towns and fortified villages which have been
largely unaffected by modern development.

Alicante is best known as the gateway to the many glittering
resorts in the region, but the city is actually an interesting
urban destination, with history and culture aplenty to offer those
who can be distracted from the beach. Those who have some time in
Alicante should head to the Catedral de san Nicolas from which the
narrow old streets of the historic quarter, El Barrio, radiate
outwards.

The most popular time to visit the Costa Blanca is between May
and October when the weather is guaranteed to be sunny and warm
most of the time. The temperature can get up to 104F (40C) in
August, with the sea at a very comfortable 77F (25C). It is too hot
and crowded for some during this busy summer season and some
visitors holiday in the spring and autumn months, when it is cooler
and there is the chance of light showers. However, many of the bars
and restaurants close outside of the peak tourist season.

Málaga

Malaga has long been a popular holiday destination for British tourists. Located on the Costa del Sol, along the southern coast of Spain, Malaga enjoys yearly warm weather and sandy beaches perfect for those looking for some relaxation.

Casablanca

Just looking at the city, there's no need to guess where the
port-city of Casablanca, meaning 'white house' in Spanish, got its
name. Made famous by the classic film, starring Humphrey Bogart,
this cosmopolitan, white-walled city is Morocco's largest and most
modern. Casablanca is not oriented towards tourists as much as
Morocco's other large cities, but under the hustle and bustle lies
a unique and charismatic history waiting to be discovered.

Founded by Berber fisherman over two thousand years ago,
Casablanca was used by both the Phoenicians and the Romans as a
port. The Portuguese then took over but after destroying the city
and rebuilding it, they abandoned it in the aftermath of an
earthquake. The city went on to be rebuilt as Daru l-Badya (Arabic
for Casablanca) by a Moroccan sultan, and was then given the name
Casablanca by the Spanish traders who used the port, and it retains
this function today as one of Africa's largest and most important
ports.

As a centre for trade and, consequently, the mixing of cultures,
Casablanca is unlike any other Moroccan city. Many women ditch the
conservative clothing and dress themselves in the latest designer
outfits. The infrastructure is modern and the city sophisticated.
Casablanca is where Morocco's youth move to make something of their
lives and is the centre for international trade and big business.
For a glimpse of its history, downtown is the perfect place to
admire the blend of French colonial architecture and traditional
Moroccan design.

Sailing the Atlantic Ocean

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is the provincial capital of Nova
Scotia, and serves as the centre of commerce for Atlantic Canada.
It sits on one of the largest natural harbours in the world and has
long been an important maritime centre.

Founded in 1749 by the British who sought
to strengthen their presence in the North Atlantic, the city
retains its British military air. Many historic stone and wood
buildings have been preserved, particularly in the restored
waterfront area, which has become a major tourist attraction. The
metro offers shopping, exciting nightlife, eclectic restaurants and
a diversity of entertainment, and it boasts North America's oldest
yacht club, Northwest Arm.

Halifax is also the cultural hub of Nova
Scotia and the Atlantic provinces as a whole. It has a number of
art galleries, museums, theatres and other charming cultural
attractions. It's also home to the Nova Scotia Symphony, and also
hosts many cultural festivals such as the Nova Scotia International
Tattoo, Shakespeare by the Sea, the Halifax International Busker
Festival and the Atlantic Film Festival.

Visitors can find out more about the city's
culture from reading The Coast, its free alternative arts weekly
magazine which can be found online. The city also offers a range of
lovely recreational sites, such as parks, beaches, walking trails
and some living-history experiences such as the firing of the noon
day gun at the Halifax Citadel and the working locks of the
Shubenacadie Canal.

Halifax offers visitors a fascinating
glimpse into life in Canada's Atlantic provinces, and there's so
much to see and do here that tourists will hardly ever experience a
dull moment.

Sailing the Atlantic Ocean

New York, New York

The problem with visiting New York City is knowing where to begin but even if you don't immediately rush off to view the world-famous sights and landmarks of this most dynamic of cities just being there is enough: the wonder of New York is in the energy and the diversity that emanates from its densely packed multi-cultural population. The city vibrates with colliding cultures and languages; here high-life and low-life rub shoulders and whoever you are and whatever your taste there will be something to amuse and stimulate you 24-hours a day.Whether lolling on a bench in leafy Central Park watching the world go by from a French bistro in Soho or gazing up at 'Lady Liberty' from the deck of the Staten Island Ferry most visitors will feel they've done it all before simply because New York is so familiar to anyone who has ever seen a movie or watched television. There is something special however in actually seeing the familiar landmarks and experiencing the pulse of the 'city that never sleeps'.New York City is made up of five boroughs: Staten Island The Bronx Brooklyn Queens and Manhattan but many visitors never leave Manhattan. There is a lot packed into this tiny area: the 24-hour pasta restaurants of Little Italy and the bustling sidewalks of Chinatown the jazz clubs of Greenwich Village and the theatres of Broadway; and of course the iconic sights of the Statue of Liberty the Empire State Building and Times Square.New York has been described as the best three-day city in the world and that's about right. After a frenzy of museums galleries bars and clubs many visitors are ready for a break. Fortunately there's a lot of choice in excursions from the National Parks of upstate New York to the beaches of Long Island or simply the leafy oasis of Central Park. Whatever you're after New York is ready and waiting to bewitch bother and bewilder.