Black Sea and Turkish Splendours - 24 nights, September 2013

The United Kingdom's premier passenger ship port, Southampton was home to the great transatlantic liners of yesteryear. The port serves as your gateway to Southern England’s magnificent historic sites, national landmarks, charming villages as well as the great metropolis of London. Southampton is the ideal starting or ending point for a memorable voyage.

Portugal’s capital spreads its ancient sites on seven steep hillsides that overlook the Tagus River. Feast your eyes on St. George’s Castle which overlooks the city atop the highest hill, or the countless balconies ablaze with geraniums and wrought iron lamps that light up the medieval Alfama quarter. Wonder up to the Bairro Alto where you may hear the sorrowful fado singers ring out from cafés.

Sir Walter Scott’s declaration that Valletta is ‘A city built by gentlemen for gentlemen’ is epitomized by the superbly landscaped parks and palaces preserved within the imposing16th century sand-hued fortifications that loom out of the blue waters. Take a visit to the fascinating National War Museum where you can view the George Cross awarded to the island for Malta’s remarkable role in World War II.

Prepare for an incredibly preserved snapshot of life two thousand years ago as you visit the inspiring remains of Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsius. The port, Kusadasi, is not without interest or charm. Her medieval walls still stand, and whitewashed stone houses rise in tiers behind the market district. The palm-lined boulevard is the centre of town life with thousands of merchants offering wares to rival the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.

The largest city in Turkey, draped mysteriously across two continents, Istanbul is a heady blend of East and West. Lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar whose 4,000 stalls bombard the senses. Experience the legendary invigorating hamam or the traditional Turkish bathhouse. For some unforgettable sight-seeing don’t miss the minarets of the wondrous Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, whose bejewelled treasures reflect the extravagance of powerful sultans.

The largest city in Turkey, draped mysteriously across two continents, Istanbul is a heady blend of East and West. Lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar whose 4,000 stalls bombard the senses. Experience the legendary invigorating hamam or the traditional Turkish bathhouse. For some unforgettable sight-seeing don’t miss the minarets of the wondrous Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, whose bejewelled treasures reflect the extravagance of powerful sultans.

Known as ‘The Pearl of Crimea’, Yalta truly is enchanting with its fairy-tale Swallow’s Nest Castle and the spectacular views of the Crimean Mountains. No wonder the lofty elegance attracted aristocrats and inspired writers like Chekov, who spent his last five years here. Take a wander through the winding streets and broad promenade or gaze at the White Palace of Livadia.

A major seaport on the North-Western shore of the Black Sea, Odessa is all imperial extravagance. Witness the opulent summerhouses, terraces and the splendid opera house of gilded friezes and plush red velvet. For a little culture delve into the museum dedicated to the exiled poet Alexander Pushkin, or explore the city’s fascinating catacombs.

Welcome to the “Birthplace of Modern Democracy”, a city whose architectural, art and political triumphs are a universal legacy. Discover the perfectly proportioned Parthenon built during the Golden Age of Peracles. Stroll through the ancient columns of the Stoa, where Plato once lectured or for lighter fare explore the twisting lanes and lively tavernas of the Plaka.

Sail to the beautiful island of Mallorca and soak up the views of the gothic grandeur of the Cathedral and its golden sandstone, flying arches and countless pillars and spires. Stretch your legs on a palm-lined promenade, have a peek in the stylish shops, or settle back in a seafront bar for some people-watching. Bliss!

An important fishing and commercial port, Vigo’s shaded squares and cobbled streets make for a delightful amble around this old fishing town. First settled by Celts circa 600 BC, the Celtic legacy lingers on in Galicia’s old legends and in the bagpipes played on festive occasions. Seafood is definitely on the menu here in one of the plentiful restaurants in the harbour.

The United Kingdom's premier passenger ship port, Southampton was home to the great transatlantic liners of yesteryear. The port serves as your gateway to Southern England’s magnificent historic sites, national landmarks, charming villages as well as the great metropolis of London. Southampton is the ideal starting or ending point for a memorable voyage.