Ports of Call
155 articles
Riyadh: The Birth of Saudi Arabia
What were once small settlements in the desert have transformed into a thriving metropolis, Riyadh, which has managed to preserve its historic spirit. The capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is located in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, on the Najd plateau. It is a political and economic hub of great importance, […]
Marmaris: Turkey’s Gem to Discover All Year Round
Among the most enchanting bays of the Mediterranean, Marmaris is a little-known jewel that never fails to capture the hearts of those who visit. Nestled on Turkey’s southwestern coast, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, this elegant seaside town is a perfect blend of natural beauty, tradition, and modernity, a safe and welcoming haven for […]
Uruguay: among vineyards and the scent of Tannat
Arriving at the port of Montevideo, you immediately begin to sense the unique character of Uruguay, with its blend of history, culture, and landscapes waiting to be explored. The city combines history and modernity: Ciudad Vieja, with its historic buildings, and the Rambla along the ocean offer a first taste of its distinctive atmosphere. For […]
Puerto Plata: The True Essence of the Caribbean
Puerto Plata is one of the most captivating cities in the Dominican Republic — a destination that blends colonial charm with Caribbean vitality, turquoise seas with lush green mountains. The name, meaning Silver Port, was given by Christopher Columbus in 1493, inspired by the silvery reflection of sunlight on the water. Since then, this city […]
South Georgia: A Paradise of Untouched Nature
South Georgia, a remote archipelago located in the South Atlantic Ocean, is one of the most fascinating and pristine destinations on the planet. Situated about 1,400 kilometers east of the Argentine Patagonia coast and part of the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, this region is considered one of the […]
Uruguay’s Hidden Beaches: Where Nature Meets Charm
When talking about Uruguay as a beach destination, it’s impossible not to think immediately of Punta del Este. This is the country’s most iconic seaside resort, often compared to Saint-Tropez or Miami for its glamorous lifestyle, manicured beaches, luxurious villas, and lively nightlife. Set on a peninsula dividing the Atlantic Ocean from the Río de […]
Deception Island: The Mysterious Heart of Antarctica
In the heart of the South Shetland Islands archipelago, just a few hundred kilometers from the Antarctic Peninsula, lies one of the most surprising and fascinating places you can encounter during an expedition cruise: Deception Island. At first glance, it looks like one of the many remote islands of Antarctica, but as you approach, it […]
Ascension Island: between ocean, volcanoes & nature
In the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, halfway between the coasts of Africa and South America, lies Ascension Island—a remote, wild, and little-known volcanic island, yet rich in charm and surprises. For those embarking on an expedition cruise in search of unconventional destinations, Ascension represents an ideal stop: off the traditional tourist routes but full […]
Kimberley: Between Tides and Legendary Waterfalls
The Kimberley region, located in the far northwest of Australia, is one of the most remote, inaccessible, and geologically ancient destinations on the planet. Covering over 400,000 square kilometers and with an extremely low population density, this vast territory preserves an unspoiled natural environment, made even more extraordinary by its rugged topography, the power of […]
Punta Arenas: Where the Adventure Begins
Southern gateway to Chile, overlooking the legendary Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas is far more than just a stopover for expedition cruises. It’s a place that captures the spirit of exploration—with multicultural heritage, unique wildlife, remote landscapes, and bold flavors. Here, at the edge of the world, the far south becomes a true starting point. […]
Régua and Pinhão: The Heart of the Douro Valley
Nestled among the enchanting landscapes of northern Portugal, Régua and Pinhão represent the soul of the Douro Valley, a region recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Steeped in history and natural beauty, these two towns are the birthplace of the renowned Port Wine and the beating heart of Portuguese wine culture. Régua, considered […]
Hellesylt: A Peaceful destination with a Majestic Waterfall
Tucked away in the heart of Norway’s fjord country, Hellesylt is more than just a pit stop—it’s a place where nature takes the lead, enveloping every visitor in an atmosphere of serene grandeur. Though small in scale, this charming port at the head of Sunnylvsfjorden serves as a breathtaking introduction to Norway’s raw beauty, where […]
Uruguay: The Hidden Gem of South America
In the heart of South America, nestled along the Atlantic coast between two giants—Brazil and Argentina—lies a small yet remarkable jewel that more and more travelers are beginning to discover: Uruguay. Often overlooked in traditional tourist itineraries, this country surprises visitors with its high quality of life, rich cultural heritage, authentic cuisine, and a laid-back […]
Zurich: Between Culture, Nature, and Swiss Chocolate
German-speaking Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and the major financial and cultural hub of central Europe. It is considered one of the world’s most livable cities because of its booming economy, beautiful old town and natural setting, and variety of cultural attractions. English is spoken everywhere. It is a pleasure to wander around […]
Passau: The City of the Three Navigable Rivers
Passau is a German city, also known as the city of the three navigable rivers. Here, the Danube meets the Ilz and Inn rivers. The Inn River originates in the Swiss Alps, west of St. Moritz, in the Engadin region. It flows through Switzerland, Austria, and Germany for 517 km, flowing into the Danube right […]
Avignon, the Pearl of the Rhône
In the heart of Provence, gently overlooking the banks of the Rhône and protected by the majestic Rocher des Doms, lies a city that encapsulates all the beauty, culture, and charm of the most authentic France: Avignon. With just over 90,000 inhabitants, Avignon retains a serene and relaxed pace of life, while at the same […]
Porto, the authentic city that gave Portugal its name
Porto, the city that lent its name to Portugal, attracts millions of tourists each year with its beauty, the charm of its attractions, and its rich history. It serves as a gateway and starting point for journeys through the diverse landscapes and cultures of Portugal. Increasingly, Porto is becoming a key stop on river cruise […]
Belgrade: the city where rivers tell stories
In the heart of the Balkans, where the Danube meets the Sava in an eternal embrace, lies one of Europe’s most surprising and lesser-known capitals: Belgrade. In the Serbian capital, time seems to flow differently—between ancient memories and an energetic present—in a balance that only deeply lived cities can achieve. Increasingly appreciated by curious travelers […]
Discovering Skagway: A mix of History and Adventure
Skagway, Alaska, a small town with a big history, offers visitors a fascinating blend of gold rush heritage, scenic beauty, and adventurous activities. Stepping off the ship in Skagway is like stepping back in time to the days of the Klondike Gold Rush. As you disembark from the ship, the quaint charm of Skagway greets […]
Rouen: A Mosaic of History, Art and Traditions
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, Rouen is a city that captivates visitors with its rich historical heritage, majestic medieval buildings, and an atmosphere that evokes the timeless charm of old France. If you’re lucky enough to spend a day in Rouen, you’ll be enchanted by its beauty and enduring history. In […]
Koblenz, Where the Rhine Meets the Moselle
In the heart of western Germany, where the waters of the Rhine and the Moselle meet, lies Koblenz, one of the country’s oldest and most captivating cities. For those embarking on a river cruise along the Rhine, Koblenz is an unmissable stop: a multifaceted destination blending ancient history, striking architecture, enchanting landscapes, and authentic culinary […]
Monte Palace Madeira: A paradise for the senses
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is known for its subtropical beauty – and few places embody this splendor better than the Monte Palace Madeira. This impressive garden complex is far more than just a botanical garden – it is a blend of natural diversity, artistic richness and historical heritage. This half-day excursion is recommended for […]
Lanzarote: the volcanic soul of the Canary Islands
Situated at the easternmost edge of the Spanish archipelago, off the northern African coast, Lanzarote stands out for its extraordinary landscape, shaped by intense volcanic activity. Formed around 15 million years ago, the island presents itself as a unique territory, characterized by vast solidified lava flows, jagged rocks, and stretches of black sand that give […]
Salvador: A Fusion of History, Culture and Tradition
Visiting Salvador, Brazil’s former colonial capital, is fun and interesting. Excitement pours from the historic center of this city (the Pelourinho) with the sounds of lively Brazilian music and drum corps overlapping from its squares, restaurants, and street performers. Salvador is Brazil’s third most visited location – behind Rio de Janeiro… for some good reasons. […]