Barcelona
Barcelona has always been a prosperous city , thanks to an exquisite harbor, fertile soil, and a population of hard working, caring citizens. This great city was a strong, incredibly diverse region when Madrid was still a fledgling town with basically no landmarks or significance. The numerous Mediterranean empires that had at one time or another conquered the area brought tremendous influences, much more so than the Iberian presence to the west. Barcelona was most influenced by Rome, Carthage, and France during the Charlemagne era.
The monuments of Barcelona open a book into the rich history of the area. These include the intricate and beautiful Gothic Quarter from the medieval times, the series of Catalan art nouveau, and the surreal artwork of Picasso and Miro. But if you are searching for a little excitement and outdoor fun to mix in with your education and culture, look no further than Barcelona.
In 1992, Barcelona was given a huge boost by serving as home to the Summer Olympic Games. This race to the 21st century was quite beneficial to Barcelona and the neighboring areas, and the restructuring program that became everyone's focus was given the name Post Olympic. As a result of all of this hard work and dedication, Barcelona has recently developed into one of the premier port cities in all of Europe. There are so many fascinating sights and wonderful events; you will be awed by your choices and so much to do. Extraordinary museums and landmarks can be found everywhere in this ancient city with a rich heritage and culture. The Museu Picasso is one of the greatest art exhibits anywhere, and through the center of the old quarter of Barcelona is the gorgeous tree-lined promenade, a visual splendor. The nightlife is truly something, and the shopping is fantastic.
Cairns
Cairns is a naturalist's heaven. The city has everything you're looking for, from perfect beaches to a pristine rain forest. And of course, just offshore is the truly awesome Great Barrier Reef. You will find that the day passes much too quickly in Cairns (pronounced cans).
The emphasis in Cairns is clearly placed on nature and natural wonders. You'll find that most activities in town are geared towards getting you out to the reef or to exploring the nearby Wet Tropics Rain Forest. The sights here grace most Australian tourism brochures, and you'll be left wondering how you will be able to pull yourself away from here.
It's difficult to recommend an itinerary for your stay in Cairns, especially because cruise passengers are on such a limited time budget. As a result, you will have an impossible time fitting everything mentioned in this guide into such a short time. Your best course of action is to plan out your day in advance, deciding whether you would rather spend your time admiring the splendor of the Great Barrier Reef, gazing at the natural beauty of the rain forest, or enjoying an adrenaline high from any of Cairns excellent outdoor adventure activities. No matter what you choose, one thing is certain after you visit Cairns. You will want to come back!
Tenerife
The Canary Islands are culturally and geographically Spanish, but these islands are all unique and each offers tourists a different flavor. The Canaries have long served as a retreat off the coast of Africa; a place for Europeans to enjoy respite. However, today they are able to stand alone as tourist destinations and trading meccas where visitors from around the world come specifically to enjoy the way of life here.
Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands. This is a classic tropical island where the climate is always spring-like. Mild, balmy air drifts across the shores and invites tourists to spend their time outdoors soaking up the warm, moist air and sunshine. Tenerife has fertile ground that is especially conducive to agriculture and botany. For that reason, you will find countless different types of plant life, fruits and vegetables growing all over the island. From its banana plantations to its lush tropical gardens to its rocky coast and dramatic cliffs, the natural elements of Tenerife will undoubtedly overwhelm your senses. Diversity is key to the island's scenic charm. You may spend the morning touring a humid botanical garden inland and the afternoon hiking in the cool wind along the stunning coast.
You will be amazed at the friendliness that this island exudes. The people of Tenerife are known for their eagerness to share their colorful cultures and traditions with outsiders. It is not uncommon for locals to invite tourists to outdoor festivals and performances. And certainly, tourists are encouraged to participate in the festivities that happen year round. Music, dance, food and sporting events play into everyday life in a way that makes each moment here feel like a true tropical celebration.
Funchal
In 1419, Tristao Vaz Teixiera and Joao Goncalves Zarco discovered the island of Madeira, on which was established the exquisite city of Funchal. This is a city of incredible lights and sights, a place of dreamy sunsets and gorgeous scenery. The wildlife is remarkable, and the museums are outstanding. Although Funchal is quite built up, the surrounding area is remote and made up of dense jungle. Madeira is an architecturally diverse city with many interesting landmarks.
The island itself is located in the Madeira archipelago and belongs to Portugal. Madeira is 530 miles southwest of Portugal, and is only one of two inhabited islands in the region. Funchal is a coastal city, and is definitely the most active city on Madeira. Nearly all the fun and exciting activities on Madeira are located in Funchal, and the restaurants here are splendid. You are sure to be pleased by the fine dining facilities, good shopping, and active nightlife. There are a number of very nice stores, lively bars, and nightclubs. One of the world's highest ocean cliffs is found on Madeira, and there are plenty of places to hike, explore, and see all kinds of terrain. Madeira redefines the word vacation, as there are so many leisure spots laced throughout Funchal. The Golfe de Madeira golf course is outstanding; the course itself is actually outdone by the fabulous scenery that encompasses the greens. The hills and coastline of Madeira are extraordinarily beautiful, and the climate on the island is lovely. Funchal is bordered by sparkling blue waters that only get more beautiful the more you look at them.
Malaga
Malaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, is home to 550,000 residents and is a marvelous city for visiting and sightseeing. The weather in Malaga is fantastic, and the wide array of activities and interesting features will have you begging for more. No stay is too long in Malaga, and the diversity of the city is magnificent. The port area is comprised of ancient streets and gorgeous foliage, and at the center of the city is a mass of high-rises and government buildings.
The climate of Malaga is subtropical, and the region averages 324 days of sunshine every year. Talk about a prime vacation spot! About a decade ago, crime in Malaga reached an all-time high, as unemployment rates and drug use skyrocketed. Thanks to government programs and aid from nearby cities and countries, the area has improved greatly. Tourism has certainly benefited Malaga. The drug peddling that was occurring on the streets ten years ago has thankfully been virtually eliminated. However, like anywhere, it is still wise to be conscious of your surroundings at all times, and do not leave valuables lying around. As mentioned, taking such care should be the norm whenever traveling, no matter where you are.
The Plaza de Merced, cathedrals, and museums of Malaga make it a remarkable site for studying the history and culture of Spain. The coastline that borders the city is magnificent, and it creates a wonderful backdrop to the ancient land.
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