Los Angeles to Civitavecchia (Rome)

Spectacular natural surroundings combined with the vitality of a creative and artistic community make Los Angeles one-of-a-kind. Sunshine, majestic palm trees and the sandy beaches of the Pacific share the spotlight with L.A.’s glamorous movie industry and its world-famous celebrities. Formally founded in 1781, it is now one of the world’s largest metropolitan centers.

Kauai is better known by its well-deserved nickname, the “Garden Isle.” Fewer people live here than on the larger neighboring islands, but Hawaiian residents and out-of-state visitors alike are attracted to its acclaimed beaches, rugged emerald-colored cliffs, cascading waterfalls and magnificent sandy shores. Secluded coves are found all along the island’s irregular coastline and a luxuriant rainforest flourishes on the “wet” side of the island, Kaui being one of the wettest spots on earth.

Create your own magic on Hawaii’s great “gathering place”.

Lush, rolling green hills, exquisite black and white sand beaches, stoic stone tikis and dramatic waterfalls inspired Herman Melville’s “Typee” and they remain virtually unchanged today.

Lush, rolling green hills, exquisite black and white sand beaches, stoic stone tikis and dramatic waterfalls inspired Herman Melville’s “Typee” and they remain virtually unchanged today.

The second largest atoll in the world, beautiful Rangiroa is a renowned dive destination with turquoise waters and a fascinating world of colorful fish who fearlessly swim next to their human visitors. On land, working pearl farms, quiet villages and secluded resorts entice guests to become a part of a culture that values neighborly friendliness and relaxation.

James Michener called it the most beautiful island in the world, for Bora Bora fulfills your every fantasy of how an island paradise should be. Majestic 2,000-foot-high peaks tower over its tranquil lagoon, their reflections mirrored in glassy waters. Thatch-roofed huts lie cradled beneath shady palms on sugar-white beaches as the scent of exotic flowers wafts through the air. Colorfully decorated le trucks wait ashore, ready to take you on a discovery of the island’s awesome beauty. Nearby, glass-bottom boats lie poised, awaiting the opportunity to introduce you to an undersea world that is rich with vibrant sea life.

Experience why ancient Polynesians chose Mo’orea as their island of pleasure. This exquisite island is home to groves of pineapples, vanilla, coffee, and pristine beaches. Off into the distance, marvel at the lush mountain peaks surrounded by crystalline waters.

Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, is by no means a sleepy town. With an international airport, wide waterfront-boulevard and new buildings, it boasts all the modern trappings of civilization. Its engaging atmosphere is vibrantly alive, a marvelous potpourri of European manner and carefree island ways. A few steps from our pier, boutiques and galleries abound as Tahitian shopkeepers dressed in bright paréos greet customers with a welcoming iaorana. The nearby open-air market is a bustle of activity. Away from the clamor of town are peaceful fern grottos, tiny villages tucked in verdant valleys and ancient sacred maraes.

Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, is by no means a sleepy town. With an international airport, wide waterfront-boulevard and new buildings, it boasts all the modern trappings of civilization. Its engaging atmosphere is vibrantly alive, a marvelous potpourri of European manner and carefree island ways. A few steps from our pier, boutiques and galleries abound as Tahitian shopkeepers dressed in bright paréos greet customers with a welcoming iaorana. The nearby open-air market is a bustle of activity. Away from the clamor of town are peaceful fern grottos, tiny villages tucked in verdant valleys and ancient sacred maraes.

Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, is by no means a sleepy town. With an international airport, wide waterfront-boulevard and new buildings, it boasts all the modern trappings of civilization. Its engaging atmosphere is vibrantly alive, a marvelous potpourri of European manner and carefree island ways. A few steps from our pier, boutiques and galleries abound as Tahitian shopkeepers dressed in bright paréos greet customers with a welcoming iaorana. The nearby open-air market is a bustle of activity. Away from the clamor of town are peaceful fern grottos, tiny villages tucked in verdant valleys and ancient sacred maraes.

Delight in richly covered in mountains that soar more than 2,000 feet above clear-blue seas, coral reefs, and nearly untouched lagoons. Warm smiles greet you all around the island as you experience different ways to immerse in the traditional hospitality and culture of Rarotonga

Tonga is a member of the Commonwealth, and it shows in Nuku’Alofa, the capital, with its Victorian Royal Palace, impressive chapel, and Royal Tombs of the local monarchs. Yet Tonga teems with South Sea beauty as well, including exotic Talamahu Market, wave-swept coastal cliffs, and idyllic Fafa Island.

To the east of the International Date Line lie the islands of Fiji, where smiling people bid you “bula,” or welcome, to their unspoiled homeland. The bustling port town of Lautoka lies cradled on the western shores of Viti Levu, with marketplaces filled with shell jewelry, wood carvings, woven mats, basketry and masi, and exquisite Indian saris. Not far from the pier are endless fields of lush sugar cane, traditional villages and an orchid wonderland.

Port Vila is the harborside capital and main hub of Vanuatu, on Efate island. Its small downtown is home to colorful market stalls selling produce and local handicrafts. The National Museum of Vanuatu, inside the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, displays artifacts such as slit-gong drums and outrigger canoes. The town is a base for diving and trips to Mele Cascades, a multi-tiered waterfall with rock pools in a rainforest.

Having served as the South Pacific headquarters for the U.S. military during World War II, the main island of New Caledonia, called Grande Terre, has played a prominent role on the world stage. These days, the island’s sunny weather and natural beauty have taken the spotlight, bringing people to its shores for relaxation and outdoor pursuits. The island’s French-influenced capital, Nouméa, dubbed the Paris of the Pacific, has a distinctly French flair with fine restaurants and designer boutiques. Off shore are the vast barrier reefs, home to 350 species of coral and 1,500 species of fish. New Caledonia’s protected lagoon covers almost nine thousand square miles, making it the largest lagoon complex in the world. At nearly one thousand miles long, the barrier reef is the world’s second largest, behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Having served as the South Pacific headquarters for the U.S. military during World War II, the main island of New Caledonia, called Grande Terre, has played a prominent role on the world stage. These days, the island’s sunny weather and natural beauty have taken the spotlight, bringing people to its shores for relaxation and outdoor pursuits. The island’s French-influenced capital, Nouméa, dubbed the Paris of the Pacific, has a distinctly French flair with fine restaurants and designer boutiques. Off shore are the vast barrier reefs, home to 350 species of coral and 1,500 species of fish. New Caledonia’s protected lagoon covers almost nine thousand square miles, making it the largest lagoon complex in the world. At nearly one thousand miles long, the barrier reef is the world’s second largest, behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Trace the history of New Zealand on the gorgeous island of Waitangi. Along with its vibrant past, find spectacular coastlines, abundant forests, and a world of natural wonders.

Situated astride a narrow, jade-green isthmus between the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau, is Auckland. This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges, sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities, and, not to be forgotten, plenty of sheep and rolling farmland.

Situated astride a narrow, jade-green isthmus between the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau, is Auckland. This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges, sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities, and, not to be forgotten, plenty of sheep and rolling farmland.

The spectacular Bay of Plenty on New Zealand’s North Island is home to the resort town of Tauranga. Known for its fine restaurants, boutiques and galleries, the city is also a hot spot for water sports and a gateway to nearby attractions, such as the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. At the southern end of Tauranga’s harbor lies the relaxed beach town of Mount Maunganui, named after its distinctive peak, Mauao, which towers 750 feet above the town’s white-sand surf.

The historic port of Lyttelton serves as the gateway to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island. Traditionally considered the most English of New Zealand’s cities, there is much to explore in vibrant Christchurch, from its neo-Gothic stone buildings and beautiful botanical gardens, to its picturesque Avon River lined by graceful willows. Further afar, the Canterbury Plains, snow-capped Southern Alps and numerous rivers beckon with their enchanting beauty and wildlife.

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria – and a global capital of trend-setting cool. Dynamic, sporty and arty, it still maintains an air of old-world grace with spacious tree-lined boulevards and expansive parks. The prosperous lifestyle of its people is both cosmopolitan and sophisticated. The heritage of more than 100 different cultures has contributed to Melbourne’s richly international character – exemplified by its range of 15,000 dining venues offering more than 50 different kinds of cuisine.

Sydney is an energetic and exciting metropolis where nightlife, shopping and fine restaurants compare favorably with the finest the world has to offer. Despite its modern advances, Sydney has lovingly cherished its heritage, for this was the birthplace of the Australian nation, defined by the billowing profile of the Opera House and the dramatic arch of the Harbour Bridge.

Nestled between the Gold Coast to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north, laid-back Brisbane makes the most of its magnificent beaches, offering an ideal blend of Aussie ease and urban energy. Wander the lush Botanic Gardens, shop the Queen Street Mall, or enjoy the countless cafés along the banks of the Brisbane River.

Bordering the Whitsunday Passage where famed British explorer James Cook sailed in 1770, today this thriving resort town is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday isles. A relaxed, tropical vibe fills its palm-fringed lagoon, beachfront parks, and assorted shops, restaurants and cafés. Situated nearby is Conway National Park, home to a lush, tropical rainforest and pristine waterfalls.

Welcome to Cairns [cans], where the weather and hospitality are warm. Tropical Cairns is Queenland’s most northerly city, and is framed by two features of such pristine beauty and incomparable value that they have been listed by the World Heritage Society. Located at the point where the Great Dividing Range and Great Barrier Reef curve gently to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and grazing farmlands fed by freshwater streams. Above all, two of the most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. Cairns, the colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, is alive with life and charm. At hand and beckoning for your discovery are elegant boutiques, markets, art galleries and museums.

Welcome to Cairns [cans], where the weather and hospitality are warm. Tropical Cairns is Queenland’s most northerly city, and is framed by two features of such pristine beauty and incomparable value that they have been listed by the World Heritage Society. Located at the point where the Great Dividing Range and Great Barrier Reef curve gently to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and grazing farmlands fed by freshwater streams. Above all, two of the most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. Cairns, the colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, is alive with life and charm. At hand and beckoning for your discovery are elegant boutiques, markets, art galleries and museums.

One of more than 100 Torres Strait Islands, Thursday Island, aka Waiben, sits at the northern tip of Queensland off the Cape York Peninsula, home to 4,000 residents. The vibe here is decidedly tropical paradise, while the island’s history holds some serious high points, as T.I. (as it’s affectionately known by locals) served as Australia’s defense center during World War II. Wartime remnants remain for visitors to explore, and the colorful reefs beyond the shoreline call to adventurers.

Australia’s northernmost city lies between the sun-bleached Outback and the Arafura Sea on Australia’s “Top End,” as tropical northern Australia is familiarly called. Chic yet casual, the Northern Territory capital has grown into a modern, mellow mini-metropolis, with a comfortable tropical climate and some of Australia’s most fascinating natural highlights – the abundant wildlife and many waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, and beautiful Adelaide River and its famed jumping crocodiles.

Many of Komodo Island’s residents are descendants of convicts, who like the early inhabitants of Australia, were sent to the island to live in exile. And, like Australia, Komodo Island has a population of strange and wondrous wildlife, the most renowned of which is the Komodo dragon. The world’s largest lizard, this ferocious predator enjoys full protection on the island. Both Komodo Island and nearby Rinca Island are part of a national park system that allows the dragon to sunbathe on the river banks and amble past curious visitors without fear of being harmed. Actually, it is the human that should be wary: in spite of their clumsy stride and apparent nonchalance, the Komodo dragon can run as fast as a dog and is capable of killing and eating a human being. But visitors to the island need not worry. Calm and capable park service guides are on hand to escort onlookers to a kind of reverse zoo, where the people gather in a protective enclosure while the dragons patrol the area, making themselves available for safe observation.

Bali is so beautiful that the natives believe heaven will be just like home, and touring this island paradise, it’s easy to see why. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.

Bali is so beautiful that the natives believe heaven will be just like home, and touring this island paradise, it’s easy to see why. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.

The sights and sounds of wildlife that can be found virtually nowhere else in the world permeate the air and every adventure in this lush forested region. Orphaned orangutans thrive in the treetops of the rehabilitation center, long-nosed proboscis monkeys perch in the jungles, and elephants meander along the Kinabatangan River, Malaysia’s second-longest waterway. Also look for the Bornean sun bear and birds that comprise the entire rainbow as you explore these wild wetlands.

Enter the subterranean world of Puerto Princesa’s Underground River – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders located in the Philippines – surrounded by ethereal rock formations and lush forest where monkeys and monitors casually greet guests. The Palawan capital is also a bustling gateway to El Nido and the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago, surrounded by limestone cliffs and soaked in sunshine.

Lush and green, surrounded by impossibly blue waters ranging from turquoise to a deep azure, this tiny island is big on water play. From moment to moment, Boracay gives you an array of options: swim in the coral protected lagoon, try windsurfing or kiteboarding, snorkel the quiet cove of Baling Hai Beach or go shopping the bustling White Beach.

Set amid the forest-green splendor of Luzon Island is bustling Manila, the second largest city in Southeast Asia, with its towering skyscrapers and remarkable joie de vivre. Yet amid the big-city excitement are oases of calm: lush tropical parks, magnificent cathedrals and dramatic Spanish forts. North of the city, mountains beckon with their spectacular rice terraces, while across Manila Bay stands Mount Mariveles, a dormant volcano studded with scenic hiking trails.

Set amid the forest-green splendor of Luzon Island is bustling Manila, the second largest city in Southeast Asia, with its towering skyscrapers and remarkable joie de vivre. Yet amid the big-city excitement are oases of calm: lush tropical parks, magnificent cathedrals and dramatic Spanish forts. North of the city, mountains beckon with their spectacular rice terraces, while across Manila Bay stands Mount Mariveles, a dormant volcano studded with scenic hiking trails.

Although Hong Kong has returned to its original Chinese roots, it still remains a cosmopolitan city with influences, languages and accents from around the world. Here East meets West and the result is electric. Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style commerce into perfect harmony.

Although Hong Kong has returned to its original Chinese roots, it still remains a cosmopolitan city with influences, languages and accents from around the world. Here East meets West and the result is electric. Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style commerce into perfect harmony.

“In Singapore, at Saigon, one exists; at Hanoi, one lives.”-Joleaud-Barral, French geographer. One of the great natural wonders of Asia, the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, or the “Bay of the Descending Dragon,” is outstanding. Speckled with over 3,000 karst mountains bursting from the calm water, is Ha Long Bay. Local myths hold that when the forefathers of the land were fighting foreign invaders from the north, the gods from heaven sent a family of dragons to help defend their land. The dragons descended upon what is now Ha Long Bay and began spitting out jewels and jade, which turned into islands and islets upon hitting the sea. The islands functioned as natural barriers against the invaders and the local people survived and vowed eternal honor to the dragon’s mercy. Not only is Ha Long Bay’s landscape spectacular, but Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, is easily within reach. Hanoi lies in sometimes stark contrast with its southern sister city. While in Saigon, one sees Vietnam’s future; in Hanoi, one sees its past. In a city with a population of 2.6 million people and approximately 2 million motorbikes, the downtown intersections represent a free-for-all between pedestrians and cyclists. Surprisingly, Hanoians aren’t rushed and scrambling as are the Saigonese. Instead, they stroll and linger, converse and reflect. Old-fashioned in style, Hanoi is a city of lakes and parks, tree-lined, bicycle-filled boulevards, elegant colonial mansions and villas, all of which testify of its French legacy. Venturing into the city is a must and will provide you with a microcosm of Vietnamese culture and a truly memorable experience.

Beyond the majestic Marble Mountains, caves and pagoda of Da Nang itself, this fascinating city also leads you to the UNESCO-listed imperial city of Hue and its Royal Citadel near the Perfume River. The city’s bamboo-framed houses, water buffalo-powered produce carts and busy rice fields portray an ongoing spirit of tradition.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s eventful past and its hopeful future. The city has a prosperous air of thriving activity, as rice boats float down the waterways and streets bustle with flavorful markets. Explore the sacred temples, French colonial buildings and vestiges of pivotal events.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s eventful past and its hopeful future. The city has a prosperous air of thriving activity, as rice boats float down the waterways and streets bustle with flavorful markets. Explore the sacred temples, French colonial buildings and vestiges of pivotal events.

Afascinating city devoted to tradition and driven toward modernity, Bangkok has long been a traveler’s paradise with its heavenly weather, welcoming hospitality and mouth-watering cuisine – the vibrant city is world-renowned for its street food and impressive roster of Michelin-starred restaurants. Home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the ornate Grand Palace and the soaring Wat Arun temple, it’s also an hour away from Ayutthaya, the 14th-century ruins of the Kingdom of Siam.

This emerald isle off Thailand’s southeast coast, ringed by lovely beaches and gorgeous bays, enjoys both the fun-loving nature of the Thai people, and the peaceful serenity of Buddhism. Visit the beautiful waterfalls at Hin Lut and Na Muang, marvel at the enormous Buddha statue on Fan Isle, or just listen to the breeze whisper in the leaves of a coconut plantation.

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia’s greatest success stories. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the “Crossroads of the East.”

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia’s greatest success stories. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the “Crossroads of the East.”

Bustling Port Kelang is the principal port of entry for Malaysia. The country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a surprisingly modern city of domes, minarets and spacious, tree-lined avenues. Her symbols of faith are visible at the Jamek Mosque, the city’s birthplace.

Located on the ancient spice routes, Penang is a compelling blend of Old World Asia, Sumatra, India and influences of its various European settlers over the centuries. It has been a historical link between Europe and the Middle East, and its modern identity remains a kaleidoscope of cultures. Lively markets offer adventures for the palate, its emerging art scene adds intrigue to urban jungle, and Penang Bridge and Penang Hill afford sweeping vistas.

Residents call Phuket “The Pearl of the South,” and one visit to this green, sun-soaked island in the Andaman Sea will show you why. The coast is a succession of magnificent beaches, the forested interior boasts virgin rain forests and numerous cacao, pineapple, and rubber plantations. The culture is a distinctive blend of Portuguese, Chinese and indigenous Chao Naam: a proud, seafaring people.

The Andaman Islands float like emeralds in the Bay of Bengal, with their lushly forested interiors wrapped in ribbons of golden beach. Port Blair on South Andaman Island is the archipelago’s capital, and home to the Anthropological Museum, showcasing the history of the island’s people, and the Cellular Jail, a colonial prison turned national memorial. Nearby attractions include Mount Harriet National Park, a bird watcher’s paradise, and Havelock Island, with its iconic Elephant Beach.

This thriving port (formerly Madras) on the Bay of Bengal opens a window into the soul of Southern India. Magnificent Dravidian temples compete with monuments from the British colonial past, including the Chepauk Palace and the High Court buildings, mix with contemporary and cosmopolitan sparkle across the diverse urban landscape. Chennai also is home to a thriving university and is the epicenter of Bollywood film production.

Sri Lanka’s capital until recent times, this fascinating city is filled with an intriguing blend of cosmopolitan buildings and ancient temples. A key stop on the spice routes, Portuguese, Dutch, and British trading companies left behind churches, monuments and religions, as well as smatterings of their languages that have been incorporated into the speech and daily routine of the local Sri Lankans.

Goa has the ability to revitalize the soul, whether one craves the energy of nightlife and zest for revelry, or the rejuvenating power of meditative yoga on an endless beach. It’s all here, from the dynamic bazaars buzzing with color and spices to the curious blend of Portuguese and Indian traditions and architecture – all celebrated with zeal and joy in Goa.

Formerly known as Bombay, this city of temples where Mahatma Gandhi once lived, is home to extraordinary UNESCO treasures including the Elephanta and Ellora Caves, Agra Fort, and the Red Fort Complex. Overland journeys may be arranged to the exquisite Taj Mahal and the 2019-inscribed Jaipur Rajasthan, known also as the Pink City and revered for its colonnaded City Palace complex with royal gardens and courtyards.

Formerly known as Bombay, this city of temples where Mahatma Gandhi once lived, is home to extraordinary UNESCO treasures including the Elephanta and Ellora Caves, Agra Fort, and the Red Fort Complex. Overland journeys may be arranged to the exquisite Taj Mahal and the 2019-inscribed Jaipur Rajasthan, known also as the Pink City and revered for its colonnaded City Palace complex with royal gardens and courtyards.

Khasab, a city within the Sultanate of Oman, is increasingly popular tourist with tourists. Dhow cruises showcase the inspiring scenery, calm waters are ideal for diving, and dolphins are often spotted frolicking in the sea. Stunning landscapes, high mountain peaks, a picturesque coastal route and stretches of unspoiled beaches highlight the region, while manmade wonders include an old fort that dominates the harbor which, recently restored, contains examples of traditional Omani watercraft.

Abu Dhabi is a bustling city with extraordinary sky scrapers, wide, tree-lined boulevards, and some of the most elite cultural destinations. This city is considered the wealthiest city in the world, but still retains a humble charm with its central souk and artisan hub for traditional crafts.

Home to the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and dozens of ultra-glamourous luxury hotels, Dubai is truly a modern wonder. After exploring the new sites of the city, find yourself amongst traditional winding souks and local charm.

Situated on a striking cove on the Gulf of Oman, ringed by striking volcanic mountains and guarded by two ancient Portuguese forts, diminutive Muscat is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. Its architecture is a picturesque blend of Arab, Indian, African and European styles. Look for the sultan’s palace at the water’s edge, or visit the important national museum.

Like a magic carpet spread before the sea, Oman’s coastal plain is one of the most fertile areas of Arabia. Famous since antiquity as the source of frankincense, Salalah was already a prosperous town when Marco Polo visited it in the 13th century! Inland rise the forbidding Al-Quarà Mountains, and the desolate “Empty Quarter” of central Saudi Arabia.

As the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is a dynamic and cosmopolitan commercial hub. It is also an artistic one, with public art on display in its roundabouts. In fact, the collection, which includes works by Alexander Calder and Joan Miró, makes the city the largest open-air art gallery in the world. For shopaholics, Jeddah is a paradise, with Tahlia Street boasting an array of upscale department stores and boutiques carrying names such as Prada and Gucci. And for anyone who appreciates scenic beauty, there are lovely beaches and a picturesque corniche, where locals and visitors alike can be found relaxing and drinking in the views.

Situated at the top of its namesake gulf, Aqaba brings a refreshing release from the rose-colored desert to the north. Its sandy beaches and coral reefs are the most pristine on the Red Sea, and Jordanians hope to preserve them through careful planning. Beyond the modernity of Aqaba itself, the UNESCO treasure of Petra – an ancient rock-carved Nabataean city once lost to the Western world – and the wonders of the Wadi Rum await discovery.

On the Red Sea coast, this small city offers beautiful beaches and glorious weather, even snorkeling and diving among the offshore reefs. More intriguingly, it serves as the gateway to Luxor on the west bank of the Nile River, where the Valley of the Kings reveals the elaborate tombs and underground mausoleums of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramses II.

With its wide stretch of beach and modern hotels located on the shores of the Mediterranean, Alexandria seems more like an ancient Egyptian city. Once the intellectual and cultural center of Greco-Roman civilization, it is the country’s main port and was named after Alexander the Great. This bustling port serves as the gateway to Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza.

Venture through Greece’s largest port city, Piraeus, as you make your way to the cradle of Western culture and the birthplace of democracy. Athens, among the world’s oldest cities with a history spanning 3,400 years, has long been the location of myth and muse, and its ancient heritage is still an incredible source of inspiration. Here, the Acropolis crowns the city as home to the Parthenon and other legendary temples and monuments.

Naples, the center of southern Italian commerce, is located on the scenic Bay of Naples. View a moment frozen in time at the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum, ancient cities buried by an eruption of nearby Mt. Vesuvius.

Olbia sits on a large Sardinian bay, with a historic port dating to pre-Roman times and a newer ferry port connected to the city by causeway. Sardinia’s ruins are particularly interesting, remnants of the daily lives and rituals of the Nurarghic people of the Bronze Age. Glimpse more of an ancient past at an archeological museum displaying Roman and medieval ships, embellished glassware and other relics. Beyond town, sandy beaches, holm oak forests and secluded coves invite exploration.

Located on the Italian Riviera, Portofino’s brilliant bay is ringed by lush green hills serenely profiled against the sky.

Venture through Civitavecchia, noted for its fine seafood and beautiful monuments. Then, travel to the Eternal City of Rome, with more than 2,500 years of history and ancient landmarks that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.