Barcelona to Montreal

One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.

There is something for everyone in Alicante. The historic Mediterranean port city is located in renowned Costa Blanca, within the region of Valencia. From outdoor cafés to white-sand beaches to museums that house rare masterpieces, this town has everything one would expect of a Mediterranean escape. Be sure to visit the picturesque town of Guadalest, one of the most unique destinations in all of Spain.

Cádiz, Andalusia’s world-renowned capital, has undergone major restoration in recent years. Palm trees, gracious squares, flower-filled parks, ubiquitous red-tile roofed buildings, and bustling street markets make this a most delightful port. The old town, on the tip of the peninsula, is buzzing with beautiful, lively plazas. To get there, you pass through the new town, an elegant metropolis with excellent beaches. Cádiz is also a good starting point for a day trip to nearby Seville, where you can visit the Alcazar, a beautiful medieval Islamic palace showcasing a unique fusion of Christian and Moorish architecture surrounded by lovely gardens; majestic Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Sevilla); and Giralda Tower, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Madeira is described as the “Island of Eternal Spring.” Entirely volcanic in origin, the soil combines with the mild climate to produce an abundance of green as well as multicolored vegetation. The rugged landscape, scenic fishing villages, magnificent vistas and ideal climate bring the island fame as a year-round resort. Before leaving this panoramic Atlantic isle, be sure to sample a glass of the famous Madeira wine.

Savor the unparalleled natural wonders of this splendid volcanic island located at a crossroads in the Atlantic. See its stunning landscape, thermal pools, natural steam vents, volcanic lakes, subtropical flora, plantations and picturesque towns filled with perfectly preserved 17th and 18th century buildings.

The volcanic islands of the Azores create a natural aquarium in the middle of the Atlantic between Europe and North America. Whale watching, sport fishing, paragliding, and yachting are popular pastimes. Stroll by the beautiful marina and stop in to legendary Peter Café Sport – a restaurant, scrimshaw museum, post office and necessary stop for all sailors.

St. John’s, a city on Newfoundland island off Canada’s Atlantic coast, is the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador province. Its harbour was settled by the British in the 1600s. Downtown is known for its colourful row houses. Above the city is Signal Hill with walking trails and the site of the first transatlantic wireless communication, Cabot Tower, which commemorates John Cabot’s discovery of Newfoundland.

Start by taking in the breathtaking view from the monument honoring Captain James Cook, the first to map the area in 1767. More history awaits you in the Corner Brook Museum and its marine artifacts, forestry exhibits and collections from aboriginal people. The breathtaking Humber Valley is just outside the city, an ideal location for skiers, hikers and anglers.

Prepare to be thoroughly charmed by this great historic city. The only walled metropolis in North America provides a taste of authentic, profoundly French culture. Stroll the cool cobbled streets of Basse-Ville with its outstanding 17th- and 18th-century architecture, graceful parks and delightful sidewalk cafés. Head over to the Rue du Trésor where many local artists display and sell their artwork. Discover Place Royale, a beautifully restored market square and the green-turreted castle of Château Frontenac, Québec’s most celebrated landmark. Stop for spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans and the Laurentian Mountains at Dufferin Terrace.

The diversity and rich cultural heritage of Montréal never ceases to captivate the traveler. Take a horse-drawn carriage through the Vieux-Montréal, the largest collection of historic buildings in North America. Browse the shops and boutiques along the 19-miles of neon-lit corridors of the Underground City. Explore the exquisite works on display at the Musée des Beaux Artes or walk part of the Jardin Botanique, the largest Chinese garden in North America.