MONTE CARLO, MONACO
Saturday, June 21
History, luxury, and tranquility overwhelm the latticed streets of Monte Carlo, where remnants of the Old World shine through palaces, cathedrals, and museums amidst vibrant casinos, restaurants, and celebrity top-picks. Visit the Palais du Prince, home to the royal family, and catch the daily changing of the guard before exploring the breathtaking shorelines, rich in history and culture.
SAINT TROPEZ, FRANCE
Sunday, June 22
Revel in the hilly countryside views of Saint-Tropez, set in sloping cobblestone streets lined with high-end boutiques and restaurants serving fresh lobster and chilled white wine from neighboring pastures. Drive the coast or explore the intimacies of local life in this picturesque Provençal town.
TOULON, FRANCE
Monday, June 23
Toulon’s rich maritime history manifests itself in naval ship fleets, yachts, and colorful boats passing through this city’s sparkling harbor, banked by Old Town attractions and markets selling fine herbs, oils, perfumes, and ceramics. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Faron or visit the Museé de la Marine and the Museé Memorial du Debarquement to explore the past and savor the present before discovering designer fashions and fine jewelry to take home with you.
BARCELONA, SPAIN
Tuesday, June 24
One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.
CASTELLON, SPAIN
Wednesday, June 25
Expect the sweet smell of citrus to accompany your arrival in this capital city along the Costa del Azahar (Orange Blossom Coast). Quieter than other Spanish coastal destinations, Castellón offers high hinterlands and verdant landscapes to complement its popular stretches of sand. Look for Fadri Tower and Gothic Cathedral in the city’s historic quarter, with squares beckoning you to stop for a drink and tapas. The medieval walled town of Peñíscola dominates a stretch of Castellón’s north coast, its 13th-century castle a frequent movie setting. Set amidst the craggy mountains of the nearby Maestrazgo are the ruins of an ancient castle and medieval buildings of Ares del Maestre, another scenic wonder.
PALMA DE MALLORCA, SPAIN
Thursday, June 26
Mallorca, also known as Majorca, is a wind-swept island with steep jagged cliffs and olive groves more than a thousand years old. Mallorca is an island of contrasts. To the south is a busy tourist area with hotels, bars, restaurants, shopping and dazzling night life. To the north are rocky valleys, sleepy villages shrouded in bougainvillea, and breathtaking views. Palma is dominated by the breathtaking Gothic Cathedral, located high above the waterfront on the site of a former mosque.
SEMINARS-AT-SEA
Friday, June 27
While onboard, along with enjoying the many amenities and countless shipboard activities aboard the ship, you’ll participate in insightful and enlightening seminars and panel discussions with your distinguished faculty.
LA GOULETTE, TUNISIA
Saturday, June 28
Resting on a sandbar between Lake Tunis and the Gulf of Tunis, this gateway city was a popular summer destination in the 19th century. Today, the bustling village harbor offers coastal views and shops with traditional clothing, watches, and jewelry. Visit one of this city’s several UNESCO historical sights to appreciate the art, culture, and history of La Goulette’s Hispano-Turkish past.
SEMINARS-AT-SEA
Sunday, June 29
While onboard, along with enjoying the many amenities and countless shipboard activities aboard the ship, you’ll participate in insightful and enlightening seminars and panel discussions with your distinguished faculty.
VALLETTA, MALTA
Monday, June 30
Malta’s major port and capital, the entire city of Valletta was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. The centerpiece is the impressive 19th century Mosta Dome, visible from anywhere on the island, with its inlaid marble floor and the gilded, carved stone flowers set around the interior dome. For a tranquil afternoon, stroll the San Anton Palace Gardens, artistically laid out in Three Villages - Attard, Lija and Balzan. Or, for spectacular vistas, take a day tour to Dingli Cliffs, which offer striking views of the sea and rugged coastline. Valetta is also a portal to day trips to nearby Mdina, with its landmark Baroque Cathedral of St. John; and Rabat, the provincial township that was once part of the Roman city of Melita, where you can explore several fascinating archaeological digs.
SORRENTO/CAPRI, ITALY
Tuesday, July 1
Sorrento is surely one of the world’s most beautiful towns, built on a coast with breathtaking views and landscapes. Yet it is far from a frivolous vacation destination. The houses, people and the entire region are filled with a history and culture so deep that it can be traced back to the 11th century BC. Overlooking the bay of Naples, the town is the key point on the Sorrentine Peninsula and is one of the most popular destinations of the entire Campania region. Make sure to plan a day trip to Capri, one of the most celebrated Italian islands, noted for its natural beauty.
ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA), ITALY
Wednesday, July 2
Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors are spoiled for choice in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter’s Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill, which provides you with a grand view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, of Ben Hur fame.