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ACAPULCO, MEXICO
As the "Grand Dame" of Mexico's sunny resorts, Acapulco actually seems to recline gracefully along the shores of Acapulco Bay. The day is yours to resort-hop, or wander in search of traditional Mexican silver, the ultimate ceviche, or a multi-colored hammock for lazy days back home.

ADEN, YEMEN
Whitewashed houses, adorned with ancient bas-relief designs, punctuate the city's parched skyline. Throngs of Yemeni men line the waterfront, their heads wrapped with yards of colorful fabric, turban-style, to protect them from the desert's mid-day sun. Shrouded women, their already-dark eyes blackened with antimony, bargain in the bustling marketplace for beads and spices typical to this Biblical land of Sheba.

ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT
The powerful Macedonian king, Alexander the Great, founded this important Egyptian seaport in 332 B.C., naming it the capital of Ptolemies. Later, Alexandria became revered as the leading center of Jewish and Hellenistic cultures. Roman, Byzantine and Napoleonic forces all marched through this historic land. Today, impressive remnants still stand as testimony to these glory days. View them, or pass through Alexandria bound for the teeming city of Cairo.

ALGHERO, SARDINIA, ITALY
Italy's Sardinia hold the distinction of being the most isolated island in the Mediterranean. And as such, the local Sards have protected their history, language, culture, and cuisine. Sardinia's seaport of Alghero is surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and nuraghes - stone towers which date back to ancient times.

ALTER DO CHAO/ SANTAREM, BRAZIL
Early settlers staked their claim to this vine-choked land as far back as 1661 - and with good reason. For it is near here that the bountiful waters of the Rio Tapajos and the Amazon River meet with a colorful swirl. Today the people of the Amazon fish these rivers, search for gold, and reminisce about the glory days when Henry Ford's nearby rubber plantations prospered. Your itinerary calls for you to visit the jungle-draped village of Alter do Chao and the town of Santarem on the same day.

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, USA
Alaska's biggest city blends this state's colorful history with a contemporary lifestyle. Established as a railroad tent-city in 1914, Anchorage today is home to more than half the state's residents. Located at the head of Cook Inlet, her past is a faint reflection in the city's skyscrapers and high rises.

ANTIGUA (ST. JOHN'S)
Washed by the warm waters of the Caribbean as well as the Atlantic, Antigua is a sun worshipper's paradise. Ease down into the warm sands of one of the island's 365 beaches, or absorb a bit of Antigua's British history. Yachts from around the world today have replaced Spanish, French and British mariners who once anchored in English harbor.

APIA, UPOLU, WESTERN SAMOA
Upolu Islanders smile easily for they're convinced they live in paradise. Jagged green peaks, watered faithfully by gentle showers, provide a dramatic backdrop that eases into hillsides ripe with breadfruit trees and taro plants. The surrounding transparent seas unfailingly serve up firepits full of fish. Thatched-roof fales provide shelter. And breezy lavalas and muumuus are all these island people wear in this most gentle, tropical climate. Find a shady spot under a rustling palm and read about this utopian life in Michener's novel "Tale of the South Pacific."

ARUBA (ORANJESTAD) NETHERLANDS ANTILLES
Part of the Netherlands Antilles, Oranjestad, Aruba is as Dutch as the name implies. Enjoy the dry winds that sweep across her rocky interior, spinning windmills in their path. Snap photos of the colorful Dutch architecture or try to break the bank in a glittery resort-casino.

ASHDOD, ISRAEL
Cup in your hands the golden Israeli sands which have long blown on the parched winds of time. Each grain speaks of a day when prophets roamed this desert preaching and performing miracles, so it is written. Across this Holy Land walked Moses and Abraham, Muhammad and Jesus. Trace their glorious paths along cobbled walkways, in cool temples, and atop fabled mountains.

ATHENS, (PIRAEUS) GREECE
Sit on a smooth stone bench high atop the Acropolis and recite the words of Plato, Aristotle, or Socrates. Feel their powerful presence here in the dark shadows of one of the world's most recognized monuments. Athens, today is a treasury of antiquities.

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand's largest city sprawls over seven volcanoes and around two picturesque bays. You can buy Polynesian crafts on Karangahape ("K") Road or sweaters and knitwear on Queen Street. The best views of this lively city and the blue Pacific are from atop Mt. Eden.

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BALI, INDONESIA
Beauty is synonymous with Bali, an island of active volcanoes and lush, terraced mountainsides. Bali's special charm is evident in the spectacle of its festival dances, in the woodcarvings and paintings of its artisans, and most of all, in the smiles of its children.

BAMDAR SERI BEGAWAN, BRUNEI
The Sultanate of Brunei is one of the world's most exotic destinations where vast oil fortunes have financed this unique, yet tiny, country. The capital city of Brunei is often simply called Bandar or BSB. Her people are mostly Malay, the weather is generally warm, and the scenery is a combination of modern streets, screeching jungles, and twisting waterways.

BANGKOK (LAEM CHABANG), THAILAND
As dawn awakens Bangkok's backstreets, saffron-robed monks are already chanting in the temples, small boats are plying the klong waterways, devout Buddhists are making offerings at their spirit houses, and tiny three-wheeled tuk-tuks are zipping in and out of busy traffic. Journeying inland from the port of Laem Chabang to Bangkok, you have in store for you such treats as Thai folk dancing, wonderful spicy cooking, and a buzzing city decorated with fluted spires and golden domes.

BARBADOS (BRIDGETOWN), WEST INDIES
Barbados wears its British heritage in places with names like Yorkshire and Trafalgar Square. It is famed for its rum. powdery sand beaches and coral reefs. On Bridgetown's Broad Street you can purchase sea island cotton shirts or imported tweeds.

BARCELONA, SPAIN
Trace the steps of the illustrious and fanciful architect Antonio Gaudi who left his unmistakable mark on this Catalonian seaside showcase. Stroll the Ramblas in search of a fabulous paella, or shop the exquisite boutiques for the softest leather Spain has to offer. Then stand triumphantly atop Montjuic, site of the 1992 Olympic Games.

BAY OF ISLANDS (PAIHIA), NEW ZEALAND
Some 150 small islands lie sprinkled about this famous bay like freckles on a schoolboy. Many of these islands are nothing more than uninhabited boulders rising just above the waterline. Others are larger, criss-crossed with footpaths, and populated. Among the residents are New Zealand's Maori and British descendants who came as missionaries. In a spot nearby, the Waitangi Treaty was signed in 1840 signifying the birth of this great nation.

 BEIJING (XIGANG), CHINA
Beijing, like no other city on earth, creates a sense of excitement and awe for even the most veteran traveler. As you wander about this massive city, you'll pass parks filled with elder Chinese practicing Tai-Chi, or shadow boxing. A sea of bicycles will whir past you at every street corner. And the people will eagerly introduce you to this, the centerpiece of all China. Your in-depth exploration of this bustling capital will include a two or three- night stay, at no additional charge, in a leading Beijing hotel.

 BELEM, BRAZIL
Charles Darwin viewed the tangled reaches of Brazil as a "fertile climate, teeming with life, the attractions so numerous, one is scarcely able to walk at all." As Brazil's most important port city on these "teeming" banks of the Amazon's Rio do Para, Belem lies 80 miles inland from the Pacific shores. The city was founded in 1616 by Portuguese explorers and named for the holy town of Bethlehem.

BOMBAY, INDIA
The rhythms of classical sitar music float on cool Arabian Sea breezes. Saffron and curry scent Bombay's night air. Dhouti-clad men and sari-draped women all jostle along the busy walkways at a determined pace through the crowded streets of Bombay. Despite the din, this city of six million afforded a peaceful home for 17 years to Mahatma Gandhi, India's spiritual leader. The traffic never seems to bother the sacred cows either who amble along amazingly undisturbed.

BORA BORA, FRENCH POLYNESIA
Brilliant green volcanic peaks seem to rise from the blue Pacific as your ship sails toward the island of Bora Bora, the "Sister of the Wind." Captain James Cook, the intrepid British navigator, and his crew plied these friendly waters more than 200 years ago. Later, Captain Bligh and his mutinous men sampled a few of this island's many pleasures.

BORDEUX, FRANCE
Award-winning. World-renowned. Wine capital. These oft-spoken words refer to that region of France inland from the port of Bordeaux known for its glorious chateaux, incomparable wineries, mouth-watering cuisine, and a lifestyle to complement the tastes of even the most discerning bon vivant. Even the local Gascons, with heroes like Cyrano de Bergerac and d'Artagnan, will boast of their dedicated independence over a slice of fois gras and a glass of Bordeaux.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS
Relive nearly four hundered years of history as you explore myriad sights of Boston, a city that exudes pride in its past and furture.Superb shopping abounds and sightseeing attractions are legendary. You'll revel in exploring the Freedom Trail, the Old North Church and the Boston Common. A few miles away lie Lexington and Concord where the momentous events that began in 1775 come alive.Boston has not been content to rest on the laurels of its glorious past. Progress is everywhere. Glazed high-rises soar skyward and the colorful. waterfront area hs been artfully renovated.Your visit to this thriving metropolis is bound to impress.

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CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO
Baja California's 800-mile-long finger of sand is Mexico's sunsplashed playland. Fishermen troll Baja's warm waters in search of the "big ones." Other visitors are thrilled to simply sail out to Cabo's famous arch where the blue waters of the Pacific meet the Sea of Cortez. Lucky sea lions cavort in this bountiful sea named for the famous Spanish conquistador, Herman Cortes. In 1535, Cortes and his men journeyed to Baja, for they believed, wrongly, that lovely senoritas passed their days here diving for pearls.

CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA
Set in the dazzling blue waters of Trinity Bay, Cairns is known as the "Queensland Playground." This resort city offers a host of water activities including big game fishing and diving trips to the Great Barrier Reef. Sample delicious Pacific seafood at bayside eateries, shop for resort wear, or pop into a pub for some lively conversation with an Aussie mate.

CALDERA, COSTA RICA
From the port city of Caldera you can look for arts and crafts in the local shops, bask in the sun on black or white sands beaches, or tour the tropical forests that lie just beyond the city. Best of all, you'll meet the "Ticos," Costa Rica's charming and friendly citizens.

CANNES, FRANCE
Seeing the French Riviera is like dying and going to heaven. The weather couldn't be nicer. The cuisine is as fine as you'll sample in Europe. The parade of bronzed beautiful people strolling along the Croisette is endless. Oh, there's much more to Cannes than the annual hoopla of the Film Festival and the Palme d'Or awards. You'll discover great treasure troves of art in this area...much more than Picasso alone could create during his stay in this famed region.

CANTON, CHINA
The bustling seaport of Guangzhou, as Canton is officially known in Chinese, has served as one of southern China's most important commercial ports for over two centuries. Therefore, her people are master merchants offering everything from hundred-year-old eggs to silk screens, from lavender jade to bicycle parts, and from bamboo to baskets.

CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA
Costenos, as coastal residents are known, speak with pride of their early history, for it is one of heroism, valor and sacrifice. Constructed in 1533 by the Spaniard Pedro de Heredi, today's popular getaway of Cartagena was once the defensible port through which the colony's slaves, gold, and soldiers passed. Fortifications sprang up. Cannons roared. Even the likes of Sir Francis Drake passed through, sailing away with a sea chest of dazzling gemstones and a treasury of pesos. Peaceful days and playful nights are today's main attraction.

CASABLANCA, MOROCCO
Morocco's largest city is centuries old but looks new, with its wide boulevards, public parks and white Art Deco architecture. Shop at the old medina or spend the day at one of Casablanca's trendy beaches. Bogart fans won't find Rick's, but they can watch life go by from an outdoor cafe.

CATANIA, SICILY, ITALY
The towering slopes of Mt. Etna loom above Catania, an important Sicilian commercial port city. Greeks, Romans, Arabs Normans, and Spaniards have all come before you to make camp, repair their ships, and leave behind a colorful tapestry of descendants and cultures.

 CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND
The scrubbed city of Christchurch is perched on the eastern shores of New Zealand's South Island. Winding its way through this ever-so-British of towns is the willow-lined River Avon which is flanked with ivy-covered Gothic stone manor houses. Cricket is cricket here, and so is a proper afternoon tea. Tip your hat to this "garden city of New Zealand."

CHRISTMAS ISLAND, KIRIBATI
Fewer than 1000 gentle people, known as Gilbertese, call Christmas Island home. 'Tis a pity too, for their island is one of the Pacific's largest coral islands. Found just near the equator, it measures 140 square miles. Her curious name comes from the fact that Captain James Cook, the legendary British mariner, boated ashore her on Christmas Day 1777 - the first European to do so. Many American servicemen also passed through Christmas Island. That was during the difficult days of World War II when an important American airfield here serviced flights across the Pacific.

CONSTANTA, ROMANIA
The spectacular Black Sea port of Constanta, Romania has served as a sundrenched getaway for a host of invading powers for more than two thousand years. Local mud baths and spas soothed the aching bodies of Genoese and Greeks, Romans and Turks. Today, visitors from around the world take the curative waters in this Romanian Riviera, then dance till dawn. Others read Ovid's poem of exile for he. poor fellow, was banished to Constanta in A.D.8.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Hans Christian Andersen's magic is sprinkled like fairy dust throughout this Danish city. Even his "Little Mermaid" seems to wink at all who come to view her perched atop her wave-lapped stone. You're certain to be swept up in the enchantment and come away humming, "Wonderful, Wonderful Copenhagen."

CURAGO (WILLEMSTAD), NETHERLANDS ANTILLES
Willemstad's pastel-colored houses, typical of 17th Century Dutch architecture, stand shoulder-to-shoulder like fantasy soldiers on parade. It is said that an early island governor suffered blinding headaches from whitewashed buildings and ordered residents to paint the town red, as well as pink, yellow, blue, and green. This colorful tradition lives on to this day, much to all visitors' delight. Beyond the visual wonderland of Willemstad lies the island's interior which is stark and scattered with thirsty cacti.

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DI NANG VIETNAM
Da Nang witnessed the powerful presence of war during the turmoil-filled years from the 1950's to the 1970's. As a strategically important port on the South China Sea, Da Nang was the site of a large U.S. military base. Today, the streets are thankfully quiet except for the buzzing scooters and bell-ringing pedi-cabs zipping about, not to mention the animated banter in the marketplaces. Pause for a moment in the cool shade of a paper parasol to reflect on this city's historic past.

DALIAN, CHINA
Buildings that reflect Chinese, Japanese and Russian architectural styles attest to Dalian's strategic importance as a northern ice-free port. The city's artisans reproduce pictures with shell fragments, while glassblowers fashion fanciful crystal animals. Dalian also sports several popular beaches and a large seaside park.

DARWIN, AUSTRALIA
Australia's northern gateway has grown from a roguish frontier town to a modern city complete with casinos and museums. This tropical city at Australia's "Top End" is surrounded by white-sand beaches, yacht harbors, and a lively waterfront. There's little left, except in the museums, to remind visitors of the early pioneers and the naturalist Charles Darwin for whom this city was named.

DEVIL'S ISLAND (ILE ROYALE), FRENCH GUINA
An almost eerie calm has settled over the infamous Salvation Islands which lie just off the coast of French Guiana. Among them, Devil's Island where French prisoners were sent to languish on long steamy days, and longer dreamless nights in cells designed to make them pay for their crimes, real or trumped-up, against humanity. Among these hapless souls were Dreyfus, who was falsely condemned for treason, and Papillon - the only man the world believes to have escaped from these islands.

DUBROVNIK, YUGOSLAVIA
Dubrovnik's ancient red-tile roofs sag with the weight of centuries. Thick and roughly-hewn medieval walls which surround the city still protect her citizens. And the clear waters of the Adriatic still cool the popular beaches. Dubrovnik today retains her honor as the "Jewel of the Adriatic" and a gem in the crown of the Dalmatian coast. Ramble down the worn-with-time walkways of Old Town in search of traditional dolls and delicate lace, mementos of your day in Dubrovnik.

 DUTCH HARBOR, UNALASKA ISLAND, USA
Dutch Harbors sits in Unalaska Bay in tiny Amaknak Island, part of the Aleutian chain. These islands form a natural boundary between the North Pacific and the Bering Sea where fur seals migrate to beat their young. Formerly the headquarters for the Russian-American Company which harvested sea otter fur in the 1700s, this area grew when ships heading to the Nome gold fields stopped here for provisions. Shop for Aleut baskets, wood-block prints, and carvings.

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ENSENADA, MEXICO
Once a sleepy fishing village, Ensenada and its sheltered bay are popular as a haven for weekend sailors and a site for "Gringo" vacation resorts. Its dusty streets bustle with the promise of duty-free shopping that features Mexican crafts and folk art.

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FLORENCE (LIVORNO), ITALY
The 500-year-old port city of Livorno is your gateway to the artistic riches of Florence. Marvel at the eternal treasures in art and architecture created in Florence during the Renaissance by Michelangelo, da Vinci, Donatello and Raphael.

FT. LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA, USA
Begin or end your cruise in Fort Lauderdale, a city of ocean inlets that serves as a gateway to such south Florida attractions as Miami Beach and the fascinating Everglades. Dine on regional seafood specialties and learn about local wildlife at nearby Flamingo Gardens.

FUNAFUTI, TUVALU
Truly off the beaten tourist path, Funafuti, Tuvalu, lies just eight degrees south of the equator and is reputed to be the world's second most isolated state. Only a few hundred people visit Tuvalu each year where the tropical days are long and the nights are a cool guest. Before independence, the islands were a British colony known as the Ellice Islands. Funafuti, the capital of Tuvalu, served as a large American base during World War II. Today, Tuvaluans number fewer than 10,000 and are Polynesian in heritage and spirit. Sip a lemon squash and salute the islands' historic past.

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GIBRALTAR, UNITED KINGDOM
Protecting the entrance to the mighty Mediterranean like a crouching lion, Gibraltar boasts one of the world's most recognizable profiles. Though linked to Spain by land, Gibraltar's allegiance has long been to the British. Sip a proper cup of tea in a cozy tea room or shop the narrow streets for duty-free treats from abroad.

 GRAND CAYMAN (GEORGETOWN), BRITISH WEST INDIES
Once the refuge of plundering pirates, plucky privateers and shipwrecked sailors, Grand Cayman today is a haven for pleasure-seeking visitors from afar. Stroll leisurely past colorful shuttered, clapboard houses or take part in a lively discussion, over an icy lemon squash, on the impact of Sir Francis Drake's visit here in 1586.

GRENADA (ST. GEORGE'S), WEST INDIES
Enjoy the influence of both the French and British explorers as you sip a frosty, nutmeg-laced rum punch in the shade of a rustling palm. While on Grenada, known as the Caribbean's "Spice Island," you might slao sniff a whiff of cocoa, cloves or cinnamon drifting in from plantations on the afternoon trade winds.

GUERNSEY (ST. PETER PORT), CHANNEL ISLANDS
British by law; French by proximity. Guernsey lies a mere 29 miles from the French mainland. St. Peter Port is the main town in Guernsey. This city is quite lovely with its tiny streets stretching from the waterfront to the higher crest. You'll find it easy to imagine the island's historic past when you pass by Regency-style houses, Elizabethan castles, and the home of Victor Hugo, France's leading literary figure of the 19th century.

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HAIFA, ISRAEL
Known as the world center for the Bahai religion, Haifa is Israel's gateway to the country's historic north. Nearby are Nazareth and Acre. Tiberias, the Sea of Galilee, and the Jordan River lie to the east of Haifa. And surrounding you is more memorable history than could be recounted by a learned master of this subject in his long lifetime.

HAINES, ALASKA, USA
This historic town occupies a breathtaking setting on a peninsula along the deep blue waters of the Lynn Canal. Her Tlingit Indians enjoy the rare beauty of nearby glaciers while sharing in the bounty of the fertile landscape. Their heritage is painstakingly preserved through their art and dance which is often performed at the Chilkat Center for the Arts.

HAIPHONG, VIETNAM
The busy city of Haiphong sprawls along the muddy banks of the Red River Delta quite near the Gulf of Tonkin. The French recognized this important waterway and developed the area, in 1874, into one of Southeast Asia's leading ports. It remains today a leading commercial port for Vietnam and serves as a gateway to the country's capital of Hanoi, some 65 miles away.

HELSINKI, FINLAND
Despite a history that dates back some 500 years, Finland capital city of Helsinki is a decidedly modern city. Influenced by both Russia and Sweden throughout time, today's cosmopolitan Helsinki is dotted with eateries and shops offering Finnish-made specialties and traditional crafts from Lapland.

HERAKLION, CRETE, GREECE
As the principal port for the Island of Crete, Heraklion bears witness to an historic past in its archaeological sites and Venetian churches. Early Minoans left their mark in the architecture, fine arts, and treasured artifacts which are now on view in the island's major museums.

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
Two decades have passed since the Americans left Vietnam. And today's Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) has returned to a life bustling with activity. Rice boats float down the waterways, scooters speed through the streets, and a sense of history fills the air. The city's people extend a warm welcome and firm handshakes to all visitors from afar.

HOBART, AUSTRALIA
Australia's second oldest capital, Hobart, is steeped in history. Its cool climate and small-town feel sets Hobart apart from other Aussie capitals. To appreciate Hobart, walk around the Battery Point, a maze of uneven streets lined with quaint shops, cozy restaurants, historic homes.

HOMER, ALASKA, USA
Perched on the tip of a jagged Kenai Peninsula and washed by the waters of Cook Inlet, Homer enjoys some of the region's mildest weather. In winter, the city is protected from freezing storms by the Kenai mountains. Early Russian settlers often referred to this area as "Summerland" because of these unique conditions. But nearby glaciers remind visitors they're only seven degrees from the Arctic Circle.

HONG KONG
Sampans and walla-wallas paddle rhythmically through the water-ways of the world's single greatest shopping city. Neon lights up the sky. Sizzling woks fill the air with an aroma of ginger, Peking duck, and sweet and sour pork. And all the while this tiny nation is moving toward its date with destiny when she lowers the British Union Jack and rejoins mainland China for a challenging future.

HONOLULU, OAHU, HAWAII, USA
Sunrise over Diamond Head's stately profile welcomes you to Honolulu, a city that blends high-rise sophistication with the languid lure of the tropics. This pacific crossroad features America's only royal residence, many unique museums, dazzling beaches, and the historic waters of Pearl Harbor.

HUATULCO, MEXICO
Mexico's ingenious tourist authorities selected Huatulco as the country's next hot spot, and with good reason. There are nine marvelous bays, the Sierra Madre Mountains in the distance, and, because Huatulco is such a new destination, her greatest attractions are her uncluttered beachfront and unaffected citizens. Like Acapulco, but thirty years ago.

HURGHADA, EGYPT
The town of Hurghada, hugging the western bank of the Red Sea some 230 miles south of the Suez, has long been known to the world's adventurous scuba divers. These devotees marvel at the parade of colorful fish and clear, clear waters which combine to create an underwater wonderland. Landlubbers visiting Hurghada must be content to simply explore dusty streets, scan the miles-of-desert horizon, and smile back at curious Egyptians.

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ISTANBUL, TURKEY
Domes, mosques and minarets punctuate Istanbul's distinctive horizon. And the waters of the Bosphorus are alove with an armada of vessels crisscrossing from the Asian shores to the European. Christian and Islam stand side-by-side in this crossroad of civilization. Enter this swirl of activity in the alleyways of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar in search of hand-knotted rugs, exotic spices, and Turkish Delight candies.

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JUNEAU, ALASKA, USA
Nestled at the bases of Mt. Juneau and Mt. Roberts, Juneau is protected from chilled winds which sweep over neighboring glaciers. This modern capital city faithfully maintained the trappings of its 1880's gold-rush era when two prospectors discovered gold in a nearby creek. Much of Juneau's historic downtown area remains intact including the infamous Red Dog Saloon.

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KAGOSHIMA, JAPAN
Tucked into the protective arms of a large sea inlet, Kagoshima is on the southern flank of Kyushu Island. The city has long enjoyed a pleasant climate and productive crops due to a warm marine influence. And her towering Sakurajima volcano causes visitors to compare Kagoshima geographically to the Italian city of Naples.

KATAKOLON, GREECE
On the western flank of the Northern Peloponnese, where the Ionian Sea washes ashore, is the tiny port of Katakolon. Not far from this coastal town is the famous Greek city of Olympia. In ancient times, it was the focal point for the worship of Zeus. In fact one of the seven wonders of the world, an impressive statue of Zeus, was found in this Greek city. But, the world remembers Olympia best as the site of Greece's Olympic games.

KETCHIKAN, ALASKA, USA
Built on an island along the watery Inside Passage at the southern end of Alaska, Ketchikan exudes a frontier spirit. It is known for its many totem poles, dramatically carved by Indian artists. Visit the quaint houses and shops on historic Creek Street, built on stilts along a stream.

 KOTA KINABALU, SABAH, MALAYSIA
Once the province of pirates and warlords, the northern coast of Borneo is relatively unspoiled by tourism. The bustling port city of Kota Kinabalu boasts gardened homes and busy shopping districts with colorful native handicrafts. Just beyond the city limits lie the tropical jungle and the shrouded peak of Mount Kinabalu.

KUALA LUMPUR (PORT KELANG), MALAYSIA
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.

KUANTAN, MALAYSIA
The Malaysian port city of Kuanan is warmed by the waters of the South China Sea. It is the growing capital of the state of Pehang, the largest Peninsular Malaysia. Travelers searching for unspoiled destinations journey here for the deserted beaches. Others come in search of colorful batiks and delicate silver, both cottage industries passed from mother to daughter, father to son.

KUSADASI, TURKEY
Kusadasi is a busy tourist port on Turkey's Aegean coast. Try the excellent seafood at a local cafe or tour any of several nearby ancient cities. Best preserved of these cities is Ephesus, with its imposing amphitheater, Temple of Hadrian and marble-slabbed main street.

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LAHAINA, MAUI, HAWAII, USA
The old wooden buildings of Lahaina's Front Street lend and historic feel to this former capital of the Yankee whaling fleet. Today they house boutiques, restaurants and art galleries, but the town's raucous seafaring heritage seems to lie just below its spruce-up surface, especially at the Pioneer Inn.

LAUTOKA, FIJI
Fijian islanders, dressed in traditional sarongs with blossoms in their hair, shout a welcoming "Bula" as you step ashore in the port city of Lautoka. These gentle island people are eager to show you wonderful white-sand beaches, massive vine-draped shade trees, productive sugar cane fields, and their easy island life. Perhaps a traditional earthen-roasted pig feast will be on your agenda.

LIMASSOL, CYPRUS
This graceful crescent-shaped island was once a gift from Mark Antony to his beloved Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt. Centuries later, Byzantine forces ruled the land. So, too did Richard the Lion-Hearted who opened the doors to Crusaders fighting their way across the Mediterranean. The Turks and the British followed. Today, a multi-national melange of revelers drinks Limassol wine in open-air tavernas, and answer to the call by friendly Cypriots shouting, "Kopiaste!" Join us!

 LIBSON, PORTUGAL
The Tagus River, the main waterway approaching the port of Libson, is lined with monuments, statues, and powerful old fortresses. And the streets are filled with pastel buildings, iron balconies, and swirling mosaic sidewalks.

LONDON (TILBURY), ENGLAND
Tilbury is your gateway to London, where history comes to life in daily pageantry. Sample London's culture at a famous theater or at one of its renowned museums. For sheer spectacle, join the crowd at Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, USA
Larger than most thriving metropolises, Los Angeles is blessed with year-round sunshine, an endless stretch of beaches, lavish boutiques to weaken the most hardened nonshoppers, and starlets here and there. Begin or end your cruise in this vibrant city.

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MAGAPA, BRAZIL
Overlooking the northern shores of the great Amazon Delta, where this powerful river reaches out to the sea, is the waterfront town of Macapa. Search the lively marketplace for colorful manganese-painted pottery, handcrafted leather goods, and traditional wood carvings created by local artisans. But do stroll at a lazy pace, a frosty beverage in hand; you'll be virtually walking on the equator where the days are ever so warm and the nights are like a balmy embrace.

MADEIRA (FUNCHAL), PORTUGAL
Closer to African shores than to the coast of Europe, Funchal is Portuguese in every way - in its dress, culture, and delicious cuisine. Though local Madeirans mirror the looks of many early seafarers who called on this volcanic island, they nevertheless stand as one in greeting visitors from afar. Once ashore, shop for delicate handmade lace, award-winning wines, and traditional wicker baskets.

MADRAS, INDIA
Lapped by the tepid of the Bay of Bengal, Madras is the capital of the prideful State of Tamil Nadu. Her dark-skinned people amble barefoot in rainbow saris along the miles of beachfront called the Coromandel Coast. Holy men, their bodies painted in magnificent patterns and free from worldly woes, wander crowded city streets. Ancient Indian traditions flourish in Madras like nowhere else in this vast and varied land.

MALAGA, SPAIN
Northern European snowbirds, and others, have long flocked to Spain's celebrated Costa del Sol where sunshine is as predictable as a Spaniard enjoying paella. The Phoenicians were the first to arrive. They constructed fortifications, established trade, and enjoyed good life. Toast to your predecessors with a glass of sweet malaga wine, then enjoy the parade of pretty people along the waterfront.

MANUAS, BRAZIL
The landed aristocracy literally put Manuas on the map in the 1800s as one of the world's richest cities. Found deep within the heart of the Amazon, one of the last great frontiers, this city's wealth virtually dripped as sap from the rubber trees. Manuas' opulent past, which crashed to a halt due to the demise of the rubber trade, comes to life in the city's magnificent multi-tiered theaters and gilded Baroque churches.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES
The teeming city of Manila is the political center of the Philippines' 7,000 sun-drenched islands. Colorful jeepneys carry citizens up and down the boulevards past cricket fields, yacht harbors, historic forts, impressive statues, and lively neighborhood marketplaces. Not far from Manila are excellent snorkel and scuba opportunities.

MAZATLAN, MEXICO
Anglers have long pulled prized marlin and sailfish from the warm waters off Mazatlan. And shrimpers claim this to be the most bountiful spot in all of Mexico's waters. Add to this tempting combination the magnificent Bahia de las Olas Atlas, miles of sandy beaches, colorful arana horsecarts, a waterfront promenade known as the Malecon, a wealth of historic sights, and you've got an award-winning destination.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
As one of the country's few cities carved out by enterprising merchants rather than convict laborers, Melbourne's prosperity was fueled by the great Gold Rush of 1851. Local residents boast about their city as the "cultural capital of Australia." In addition to all this wonderful culture, you'll discover that Melbourne offers a water-front promenade, popular sports facilities, high-rise buildings, and restaurants serving the country's finest cuisines.

MILFORD SOUND, NEW ZEALAND
Carved by glacial ice thousands of years ago, Milford Sound is a living travel poster. Sheer granite cliffs rise hundreds of feet above the water. White plumed waterfalls tumble from mountain valleys into the gorge below. Seals sun themselves on rock islands and penguins swim in the icy blue water.

MOMBASA, KENYA
Not long after Christ walked the earth, wooden-hulled dows sailed in and out of Mombasa harbor laden with hand-knotted carpets and exotic spices from faraway places like Zanzibar and Roman Egypt. Weathered sailors brought with them the Moslem faith, bui-bui shrouds for their women, and a language that later became Swahili. Search the Old Town stalls for hand-carved dolls and Masai swords, or kikoi sarongs and ankle-length kanzus in a range of vibrant colors.

MOOREA. FRENCH POLYNESIA
Pretty, bronzed island women, wrapped in breezy pareu sarongs, welcome you to Moorea with a gentle smile and a colorful hibiscus blossom. This island's pace, as you'll soon discover, is easy...almost lazy. Savor you time on a powder-fine sandy beach, swimming in a picture-perfect lagoon, or dining on Polynesian delicacies including suckling pig.

MYKONOS, GREECE
The narrow passageways of Mykonos are a twisted maze of whitewashed houses, miniature churches, lazy windmills, and tiny cafes serving up Greek specialties. Sample the freshest squid or lobster just snatched from the blue Aegean Sea, or shop for typical flokati rugs.

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NAGASAKI, JAPAN
Puccini's 1904 opera, Madame Butterfly, portrays the tender love story between Nagasaki's sad but beautiful Cho-Cho-San and the man she adored, Lt. Pinkerton. All that's left today of this celebrated romance is the famous musci and a touching monument in Nagasaki's Glover Garden, dedicated to their love. Another of the city's stirring monuments is the famous 30-foot-high statue to peace in the well-known and moving Peace Park. Pause here to reflect on those long-ago events that shaped Nagasaki's history.

NASSAU, BAHAMAS
Nassau has long served as a popular playground for pirates, buccaneers, privateers, playboys and pretty people. Walk in the sandy footsteps of such luminaries as Blackbeard and the Duke of Windsor, then sip a frosty fruit punch before sampling some of the Caribbean's finest shopping.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUSIANA, USA
Steamy. Spicy. Spilling into the streets of Mardi Gras. This is New Orleans, home to the music world's famous Preservation Hall where jazz greats make their long-awaited pilgrimages. The city swings with a French flair, remembering its early days as a French colony - the days when Caribbean slaves were brought into carve our the wilderness, and "casket girls" arrived to provide the land with "proper" women. Savor some jambalaya on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, Al Hirt jamming in the background.

NOUMEA (AMEDEE ISLAND), NEW CALEDONIA
New Caledonia's capital, Noumea, is sometimes known as the little "Paris of the Pacific." It is a touch of France in the South Seas where chic European influences blend with relaxed Melanesian style. It holds a special place in the memory of those servicemen who visited the island during W.W.II.

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ODESSA, UKRAINE
Built originally in the 18th Century for Catherine the Great, Odessa today is recognized as Ukraine's "Pearl of the Black Sea." Many famous Russian figures have passed through this seaport, including Alexander Pushkin and Maxim Gorky. The world's finest opera stars, and those who adore them, have also visited Odessa.

OKINA (NAHA), JAPAN
The most southern of Japan's main islands, Okinawa is a tapestry of age-old traditions and modern 20th century influences. The people of Naha welcome you to their island which offers the efficiency of freeways and neon-covered skyscrapers along with the symbols of their past including the Naminoue Shrine, dedicated to three ancestral gods. Ponder it all over a cup of steamy rice noodles and shrimp.

OPORTO, PORTUGAL
Also referred to as "Porto" this port city, north of Libson, was the birthplace of Henry the Navigator. When Libson resembled nothing more than a Moorish enclave, Oporto was firmly established as a center of trade through which passed, among other commodities, the wine for which this region became famous. Famous too is its very name "Porto" meaning "port." Combine with that the name "Cale" (the actual town on the port), and it forms the country's original name of "Portucale."

OSLO, NORWAY
The capital of Norway, Oslo lies in a beautiful setting at the head of the breathtaking Oslofjord. Known for its art galleries, Olso also boasts a 12th century medieval castle, parks full of sculpture, and the museum of famed explorer Thor Heyerdahl.

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PALMA DE MALLORCA, SPAIN
The largest of the Baleares Islands off Spain's Mediterranean coast, Mallorca, is a popular European resort. Enjoy the cosmopolitan charms of the city of Palma or use it as a base to explore Mallorca's Roman ruins, picturesque villages, beaches and spectacular caves.

PAPEETE, FRENCH POLYNESIA
The waterfront town of Papeete is Tahitian in name yet French in flavor. Enjoy a buttery croissant and a cafe au lait before easing down onto a palm-fringed beach to relax. Step into tiny shops in search of colorful pareus, black pearls, and some provocative imported French perfume.

PENANG, MALAYSIA
Warm and easy smiles greet you from a sea of faces, a rich blend of Malay, Chinese, Thai and Indian. Hop aboard a colorful tri-shaw for a whirl past gilded temples glistening in the sun, Chinese herbalist stores with walls of mysterious remedies, and Buddhist monasteries silent in their serenity. Twirl a paper parasol overhead to stifle the afternoon sun while exploring the narrow streets of the island of Penang.

PLAYA DEL CARMEN/COZUMEL, MEXICO
Like two beautiful Mexican sisters, these two resorts reflect their Mayan past. For it was in this Yucatan region that ancient Mayan civilizations built massive stone temples bold enough to withstand the passage of time. Choose to explore these ruins or sail eleven miles into Cozumel for a play day in the sun.

PORT SAID/SUEZ CANAL, EGYPT
The Frenchman, Ferdinand de Lesseps triumphed where Napoleon's engineers had failed. He successfully built the 120-mile-long Suez Canal. And, at the completion of this monumental engineering feat in 1869, a great celebration swirled throughout Port Said and Cairo's crowded streets. For this event Verdi composed Aida, which enjoyed its inaugural performance for the assembled world leaders and dignitaries.

PORTLAND, OREGON, USA
You often need look no further than your own backyard to view some of Mother Nature's mastery. Portland, Oregon, appears masterful as it meanders along the banks of the Willamette River close to the great waters of the Columbia. Founded in 1845, the city literally grew up overnight, supplying sought-after necessities for miners working the western gold fields. Today, Portland is recognized as the state's largest city and the West Coast's leading port for exported goods.

PORTOFINO, ITALY
The once sleepy fishing village of Portofino is now a Northern Italian playground that welcomes luxury yachts to its picturesque harbor. Relax at a portside cafe while enjoying the colorful watery reelections, or walk to the hillside Church of San Giorgio for a panoramic view of the beautiful bay.

PROGRESSO, MEXICO
Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is rich with ancient Mayan pyramids, vine-covered archaeological wonders, gentle people, and a fiery cuisine unlike that served in the rest of Mexico. Progresso today has evolved from the sleepy fishing village it once was to a popular resort where vacationers come to explore Mayan ruins and siesta in the midday sun. Look for traditional embroidered huipil cottons and colorful string hammocks for friends back home.

PUERTO LIMON, COSTA RICA
Found on the Caribbean shores of the Central American country of Costa Rica, Puerto Limon is one of the nation's largest cities. Columbus, sailing on his final voyage of discovery, slogged ashore in Costa Rica in 1502. Spanish explorers who followed mistakenly declared this land to be the "rich coast," then later found little gold and few Indians to exploit. Today's riches come in the form of bananas shipped from Limon to destinations.

 PUERTO QUETZAL, GUATEMALA
Pronounce "ket-ZAL" by the local people, Puerto Quetzal is named for a rare and magnificent bird of the same name who sports iridescent tail feathers three feet long. So revered by Guatemalans, this bird's graceful image has appeared on the national coins of the same name, the country's flag, stately coats of arms and prized stamps. Sightings today are rare, for man has encroached on the bird's natural environment.

PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO
Puerto Vallarta was once a sleepy little Mexican fishing village. It exploded into fame as a world-renowned, jet-set getaway when Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton passed a number of steamy nights here while filming The Night of the Iguana. Today Puerto Vallarta is a full-fledged resort with white-washed villas, smooth cobblestone walkways, and a backdrop of colorful bougainvillea.

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RAROTONGA, COOK ISLANDS
The romance of old Polynesia is alive in Rarotonga, largest of the Cook Islands. relax on white-sand beaches or explore the lush beauty of the tropical interior. Rarotonga's gentle people remain close to their legends, which give their weaving and wood-carving a special dimension.

RHODES, GREECE
An island of tree-covered mountains, fortresses weathered by time, and a wealth of beaches, Rhodes is remembered as a stepping stone in the path between the Holy Land, Europe and Egypt. Crusaders and the Ottomans left their unmistakable mark on this historic island which is yours to explore.

ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA), ITALY
The port of Civitavecchia is your gateway to Rome...Italy's "Eternal City." And like no other city in the world, it offers more romance, more religious art, more ruins, and more remarkable fashion than any one person is able to absorb. Romans have had, remember, 2,500 years to perfect their enviable lifestyle. Don't forget to throw your Lira coins into Trevi Fountain, guaranteeing your return to the city of Rome.

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SAFAGA, EGYPT
On the western flank of the blue Red Sea lies the tiny Egyptian port of town of Safaga. Known to Egyptians as "Bur Safaga," this land serves as a getaway for the world's most avid scuba divers as well as a gateway to the Nile Valley. Along that 900-mile-long elongated oasis, which resembles an open-air museum of antiquities, are tombs decorated with hieroglyphics, pillars as old as time, and the quiet drama of a civilization which dates back to the dawn of mankind.

SAN BLAS ISLANDS, PANAMA
The archipelago of almost 400 San Blas Islands stretches along Panama's Caribbean coast. Transparent blue waters and coral reefs await visitors to San Blas. The islands' inhabitants, the Cunas, are famed for their handicrafts, most notably the colorjul, intricately stitched fabric "molas."

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, USA
Sailing under the famed Golden Gate Bridge is an unforgettable memory with which to begin or end your cruise. The city's beauty and attractions are easy to enjoy on foot or by cable car. Stroll through Chinatown, shop at Union Square or hop a ferry to Sausalito.

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
One of the oldest capitals in the Western Hemisphere, San Juan is a contrast of moss-covered Spanish fortresses and modern high-rise resorts lining sunny Condado. Travel in the path of Christopher Columbus or walk barefoot on a white-sand beach in search of the perfect sunning spot.

SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA, USA
The gentle green foothills of Santa Barbara are decorated with red-tile roofed haciendas, twisted California oaks, a polo field or two, and some cool hideaways where Hollywood's hottest stars travel for a little respite from big city life. Walk in the footsteps of early Spanish Franciscan missionaries who founded Santa Barbara's magnificent mission in 1786. Its shaded courtyard and quiet chapel provide a sanctuary for many travelers.

SANTORINI, GREECE
Linked to the legend of Atlantis, Santorini (Thira) lost its volcanic core during an eruption around 1500 B.C.. Nonetheless, this Aegean island remains emblazoned in the hearts of all who come to laze in the sunshine, feast in the taverns, and wander village streets.

SEVILLE (CADIZ), SPAIN
The ancient port of Cadiz serves as your gateway capital city of Seville. Known for its flamenco dancers, Moorish architecture, and Magellan's historic circumnavigation of the globe which began in Seville, this Spanish city today is truly lovely.

SEWARD, ALASKA, USA
Founded on the dramatic shores of the Kenai Peninsula, Seward is flanked by the dark waters of Resurrection Bay on one side and the lofty peaks of Mount Marathon on the other. This pastoral setting lures fisherman searching for prize-winning trout, salmon and bullhead. Kayakers and hikers come for the adventure. History buffs are just interested in tracing Captain Cook's trail of exploration, his search for a Northwest Passage.

 SEYCHELLES, (VICTORIA)
The brown-skinned Seychellois have adapted quite well to their environment. Plaited hats, from 120-foot-tall coco-de-mer- palms, shade them from the unfailing sunshine. Bundles of fish, tied together and tossed over their shoulders, are destined to grace their evening table. Chuckle at the local Creole chatter as you lumber along in a slow-moving oxcart bound for a picture-perfect, white-sand beach where a sun-splashed spot is just waiting for you.

SHANGHAI, CHINA
Clinging to the shores of the muddy Yangtze River, the storied city of Shanghai is China's primary port as well as its largest, most cosmopolitan city. Fortunes were won and lost here by international high-rollers who established Shanghai as Asia's commercial center. The impressive spoils of their success stand in bold contrast to the tranquil serenity of Yu Garden and the city's many parks.

SINGAPORE
The confluence of many cultures - Chinese, European, Indian, Arab, and Malay - makes Singapore a singularly grand dining and shopping experience. Search Orchard Road stores for goods from around the world. Quaff Singapore Slings at the Long Bar in the famed Raffles Hotel, where such literati as Coward, Maugham and Kipling once took their ease.

SITKA, ALASKA, USA
Bounded by towering mountain peaks and the Alaska Marine Highway, Sitka boasts two pasts. The first was when this area served as an imporant Tlingit Indian village. The second was when Sitka thrived as the capital city for Russian America. To this day, the influences of both are still felt throughout this city.

SKAGWAY, ALASKA, USA
When gold was discovered in the Klondike, the settlement of Skagway blossomed overnight, growing from one cabin into a city of 20,000. This crusty lot of prospectors ultimately moved on but left behind their unmistakable false-front buildings, rattling boardwalks, and a host of tales that would make any visitor blush.

SORRENTO, ITALY
Perched on the shores of the Amalfi Peninsula like a white dove in an olive tree is Sorrento. The Bay of Naples and the romantic Isle of Capri lie before you. Mt. Vesuvius looms nearby. Join the Italian glitterati for an aqua minerale in a waterfront trattoria or shop for inlaid wooden tables, ever-popular in Sorrento.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
The distinctive Sydney Opera House greets you as you enter this most picturesque of harbors. Learn more about the birthplace of Australia with a visit to the historic "Rocks" section, or watch the street performers and shop for "Australiana" at Darling Harbor.

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TUNIS, TUNISIA
The spire-punctuated profile of Tunis ripples in the desert sun like a mirage. Colorful mosaic-decorated remnants of the ancient city of Carthage lie nearby. So, too, does Sidi Bou Said with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses and hand-tamped studded blue doors. Bargain courageously for treasures inspired by Arab merchants who utilized Tunis as the major part of killims and coins, brass and sun-baked pottery, all being shipped between the European Continent and the whole of Africa.

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VLADIVOSTOK, RUSSIA
The city of Vladivostok has long been coveted as Russia's main Pacific Naval Fleet. Early efforts were designed to develop this area into a major trading center, similar to Hong Kong or Singapore. But the curtain closed and Vladivostok was completely shut off to westerners in 1958. Through the diligent diplomatic efforts of glasnost, the curtain was drawn open in 1990 ever so slightly. Feel the intrigue as you come ashore in Vladivostok.

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WRANGELL, ALASKA, USA
A weathered old soul can tell you of Wrangell's past in a voice softened by time. He'll speak of the days when Russian forces built their fort near here. He'll tell you the Hudson's Bay Company followed as did the U.S. Army who declared this Fort Wrangell. His gnarled fingers may point out a Tlingit totem pole or two while reminiscing about the fur-trading and gold-rushing days. Today, he's content to rock and watch the fishing boats head out to sea in search of salmon and shrimp.

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XIAMEN, CHINA
Chinese watercolorists captured on rice paper the growth of the island city of Xiamen during the Ming Dynasty, mid-14th century. Tatter-sailed junks bobbed in the busy harbor at the mouth of the Nine Dragon River, their dark cargo holds heavy with delicate porcelains, herbs, and silk. Portuguese, Dutch, British and Japanese forces which followed all held Xiamen at one time or another. Today's foreigners come to visit the pagodas and palaces, temples and parks, and to purchase elegant lacquer-thread sculptures.

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YANTAI, CHINA
China's Shandon Peninsula meets the sea where the Bohai Gulf and the Yellow Sea splash together. Here you'll find the fabled city of Yantai. The name "Yantai" itself reflects a rather dark past. Translated to mean "smoke terrace," it reminds us of a time during the Opium War (1839-1842) when smoldering fires were lit to alert Chinese sailors that British ships or pirates were on the horizon.

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