Western-Mediterranean Cruise from BARCELONA to MIAMI aboard Crystal Cruises - Crystal Serenity

Mediterranean - Western Cruises Mediterranean - Western Cruises on Crystal Cruises
Your Cruise Discount Code: 2005-999
Cruises : Crystal Cruises : Crystal Serenity : Western-Mediterranean Cruise

64 Day Western-Mediterranean Cruise aboard Crystal Serenity

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Pricing for Crystal Serenity 64 Day Western-Mediterranean Cruise

 
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Itinerary for Crystal Serenity 64 Day Mediterranean - Western Cruise

Day Port Arrive Depart
11/1/2009 Barcelona, Spain 12:00 AM
11/2/2009 Barcelona, Spain 12:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/4/2009 Malaga, Spain 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
11/5/2009 Cadiz, Spain 8:00 AM 9:00 PM
11/6/2009 Casablanca, Morocco 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
11/8/2009 Lanzarote, Spain 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/9/2009 Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/10/2009 Funchal, Madeira Islands, Portugal 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/12/2009 Lisbon, Portugal 6:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/14/2009 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/20/2009 Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/22/2009 Miami, Florida 8:00 AM 9:00 PM
11/24/2009 Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
11/26/2009 Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
11/28/2009 Key West, Florida 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
11/29/2009 Miami, Florida 8:00 AM 9:00 PM
12/2/2009 Saint Peter Port, United Kingdom 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/3/2009 Saint Barthelemy (Gustavia), Guadeloupe 8:00 AM 11:59 PM
12/4/2009 Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
12/6/2009 Curacao, Netherlands Antilles 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/8/2009 Panama Canal, Panama 6:00 AM 7:00 PM
12/10/2009 Caldera, Costa Rica 5:00 AM 9:00 PM
12/12/2009 Panama Canal, Panama 6:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/14/2009 Oranjestad, Aruba, Netherlands Antilles 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/16/2009 Saint Barthelemy (Gustavia), Guadeloupe 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/17/2009 Saint Maarten (Phillipsburg), Netherlands Antilles 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/19/2009 Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
12/21/2009 Miami, Florida 8:00 AM 9:00 PM
12/24/2009 Tortola, British Virgin Islands 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/26/2009 Bridgetown, Barbados 8:00 AM 11:59 PM
12/27/2009 Saint Lucia 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/28/2009 Saint Maarten (Phillipsburg), Netherlands Antilles 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
12/29/2009 Saint Barthelemy (Gustavia), Guadeloupe 8:00 AM 11:59 PM
12/31/2009 Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
1/2/2010 Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
1/4/2010 Miami, Florida
Area Map
Mediterranean - Western
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Crystal Serenity Cruises on Crystal Cruises by Cruise Departure Date

2008 Western Mediterranean Cruises 2009 Western Mediterranean Cruises 2010 Western Mediterranean Cruises
 
 
 


Ports of Call for Crystal Serenity 64 Day Mediterranean - Western Cruise

Barcelona

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to 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.

Malaga

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to 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.

Cadiz

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Cadiz

Beautiful Cadiz is the ideal spot for a peaceful vacation. The Atlantic Ocean surrounds the city on three sides, making it magnificently temperate and scenic. The view from virtually anywhere in the region is marvelous. In February, Spaniards flock to Cadiz for the famous Carnival. However, during the rest of the year the city is fairly quiet and subdued, and most tourists have not yet discovered the wonder of Cadiz. It is for this reason that it is in our best interests to see this exquisite city before it gets discovered.

Phoenician traders founded the region in 1100 B.C. and named it Gadir. It is claimed that Cadiz is the oldest constantly inhabited city in the entire Western World. Julius Caesar lived here and held office, and Hannibal resided here for a time, as well. During the Middle Ages, while controlled by the Moors, Cadiz was forced into a steady decline. Finally, after the discovery of the Americas, the city's commercial importance was rediscovered. Columbus set sail from Cadiz on his second voyage to the New World. In the 18th century, the New World trade was monopolized by Cadiz, and it developed into the most lucrative port in all of Western Europe. The majority of the buildings in the city date from this time period. Built from gold and silver brought from the New World, the cathedral in Cadiz is a breathtaking structure.

A grouping of narrow streets opens into a series of lovely, small squares, and this makes up the forefront of Cadiz. The older portions of the city have an African appearance to them, and the cathedral's golden cupola towers above low, off-white homes. Outstanding parks are scattered throughout Cadiz, and the sparkling bay can be seen from the center of this wonderful city. Plaza de Mina is the perfect starting point to begin your explorations. This square features grand, shady palm trees and an abundance of warm beaches. Everywhere you go, the locals will greet you with a pleasant smile and a kind word, epitomizing the inviting nature of Cadiz, Spain.

Casablanca

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Casablanca

Casablanca means white house in Spanish, and the reason for the city's name will become quite obvious as you explore the city's landscape. White houses and white office buildings are the norm here in Morocco's busiest city. The Hassan II mosque stands out above the white landscape, a green tiled edifice that catches your eye no matter where you are.

The city has a history of occupation, with many different rulers claiming the city as their own over the centuries. The Berbers traded at the Port of Anfa with Carthaginians and Phoenicians. Later on, the Portuguese came and destroyed Casa Branca, in retaliation for Berber pirate attacks. Sultan Mohammed Ibn Abdellah rebuilt the town, but it soon came under French control. It was only in 1956 that Morocco gained its independence from Spain and France. The evidence of this occupation is everywhere. French is as widely spoken as Arabic, and street names still carry the words rue and boulevard before them.

The drive along Morocco's western coast, from Rabat to Casablanca, is replete with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. This area, known as La Corniche, is truly exquisite, and is well worth the time it takes to get there. But if you are on a tight schedule, the bustling pace of Casablanca will offer you plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and fine dining.

It's the people of Morocco who will make your time here memorable. The country stands where Europe and Africa meet, and a legacy of European imperialism has transformed Morocco into a unique combination of Eastern and Western worlds. Moroccans are proud of their country, and they will go out of their way to show you its best face.

Tenerife

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to 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

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to 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.

Lisbon

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Lisbon

Lisbon is a diverse and outrageously enjoyable city that demands a look. It is already a very popular tourist destination, but it will no doubt continue to have an increasing amount of visitors as the years go by. It is not a quiet town, but it is not as sprawling or congested as some of the neighboring capitals. Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, and with a population that hovers right around one million, most of the other famous European cities are much larger. This is just fine with the citizens of Lisbon, who prefer their city remain somewhat secluded and protected. This is one of those places to which you must be sure to bring all of your high performance photography gear. But even if you aren't a seasoned shutterbug, buy a disposable camera and snap as many shots as you can! The landscape, horizon, and glorious sunsets here are unparalleled, and the unique architecture will not be seen anywhere else on earth. Even the cobblestone streets are remarkable, built on hillsides, making for a roller coaster-like view of the city or the river at any given time.

In 1755, an earthquake and tidal wave completely destroyed the city, and after that a complex of parallel streets was constructed in between the two main squares. The Alfama is a Moorish sector that is found to the east of Lisbon, and Bairro Alto is located to the west. Lisbon is full of tremendous sights and a fantastic array of top-notch museums. The squares are ideal locations for picnicking and people watching. The weather here is excellent, with hot summers, warm springs and autumns, and cool winters. The more time you spend in Lisbon, the more you will fall in love with it, so keep that picture of the kids handy to remind you of home or you may never want to leave!

Miami

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Miami

A destination of vast diversity, Miami's year-round warm weather attracts visitors from all over the world to its beautiful beaches, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Two million people call Miami home, but another 10 million come to visit every year.

The Spanish were first to arrive, and it is understandable that their influence should be felt first and foremost. Miami was colonized by the Spanish in the 1500?s, then used as collateral in negotiations with the English that ended the Seven Years War. Spain gained Havana back in exchange for Florida. In 1783, England traded Florida back to Spain for the Bahamas, and Spain ruled Florida as a colony until 1821, when Florida became a state.

Miami now is world famous for its beaches, 35 miles worth, from South Beach to Sunny Isles. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or just people watch, there are enough different beaches to suit your fancy.

But there is so much more to the city. A wide range of museums and parks can be found here. They add a refined sense of culture to the glitz and glamour of Miami's world-renowned nightlife.

Of course, if shopping is your main objective, Miami has more than enough shops and boutiques to suit your needs. That's without even mentioning the many upscale shopping malls and sidewalk stores that dot the map

What sets Miami apart from most other tourist destinations is the blend of people who call it home. Nowhere else in the world will you see so many people from so many different cultures. Large communities of Cubans and Haitians mix with retired "snowbirds" from New York and Canada.

It's hard to take in all that Miami has to offer in one day, but here are some of the highlights.

Key West

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Key West

Key West's reputation has certainly undergone a makeover over the years. When Ernest Hemingway called the island home from 1931-1961, Key West was a quiet, laid back port town with its own character and a unique charisma. To visit Key West now is to find an island that has been almost completely commercialized, with small pockets of the old Key West disappearing fast.

Not that this is a terrible thing. The confluence of people into Key West makes for a more diverse atmosphere and a fun-loving destination 365 days a year. Key West still embodies a true "laid back" spirit and a quirky self-deprecating humor; even the cemetery is a source of offbeat amusement. Think about it, how many places have you visited that actually celebrate the sunset?

Key West has been an inspiration to countless authors and artists. Among those who have called the island home, besides Hemingway, are John James Audubon, Tennessee Williams, and John Hershey.

While over 1.2 million people visit Key West annually, only 30,000 people call it home on a permanent basis. But those 30,000 are fiercely loyal. Nicknamed "The Conch Republic," Key West even has its own flag! Most permanent residents have called Key West home for generations, and many would confess that they have never left the island. Can you blame them?

Festivals and celebrations dot the calendar year-round in Key West. From Hemingway Day in July to Fantasy Fest in October, your visit has a good chance of coinciding with a local event.

Of course, over time, the secret of Key West has gotten out. The amount of hotel rooms has tripled, and the delicate balance of natural beauty has been threatened. The only living coral- reef in North America is found here, and steps have been taken to ensure its continued survival.

What will never change is the beautiful weather and breathtaking scenery you will find in Key West. The island is only twelve square miles, easily covered on foot or bicycle. With all its commercialization, Key West has managed to maintain a unique flavor all its own.

Antigua

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Antigua Situated in the sun-drenched Caribbean, Antigua is a gorgeous hideaway with spectacular beaches, inspiring coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere that separates this cruise destination from the hustle and bustle of many other Caribbean ports of call. The largest of the British Leeward Islands, Antigua is a land rich in history and culture, and sure to delight anyone who ventures onto its welcoming shores.

Once a British colony, Antigua has gained independence and is now part of the nations of Antigua and Barbuda. Its vibrant capital, St. John's, still possesses many reminders of its linkages to the United Kingdom, especially in a tour of its unique architecture, agricultural institutions, and artistic culture.

The transformation from an economically challenged land of sugar plantations to a popular cruise destination has been gradual. This is beneficial in many ways to those visiting Antigua, for you won't find tremendous over-development and miles and miles of high-rise hotels dotting the coastal landscape. Instead, you will be treated to ample dining, shopping, and local activities, albeit at a scale that invites you to soak in the natural beauty of the area, which there is certainly no lack of.

The capital city of St. John's is ideally located on the beautiful northeast coast of the island. From there, you can branch out in all directions to explore this fascinating island. Just south of town are the beautiful beaches of Darkwood, Driftwood, and Johnson's Point. Marvel at the inspiring Boggy Peak as it rises from just beyond the crashing waves.

Southeast of the capital is the beautiful Nelson's Dockyard National Park, located at Pigeon Point. Calm waters and pristine white-sandy beaches await you at this southern terminus of the island.

For the water sports enthusiasts among you, be sure to take along your scuba and snorkeling gear. Antigua is well known for its wonderful diving spots, including the reefs at Half Moon Bay, and the snorkeling haven of Long Bay, northeast of St. John's.

Curacao

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Curacao The "C" of the ABC Islands of the Dutch Caribbean (Aruba & Bonaire comprising the A & B), Curacao is located just 35 miles north of Venezuela, and is the most populous island in the Netherlands Antilles. It is famous for its charming European culture, lack of over-development, friendly and hospitable residents, and inspiring natural beauty.

The island itself was first discovered in the 15th century on one of Christopher Columbus's expeditions. The Spanish empire ruled the island until 1634, when the Dutch took over and transformed this land into the charming getaway it is today.

Curacao, and the capital city of Willemstad in particular, has been transformed in recent decades into a complete tourist haven. Restored colonial landmarks, ritzy hotels, and wonderful shopping are all at your fingertips here, thanks to a revitalization phase on the island that has restored many prime tourist sites to world prominence.

A popular story told amongst residents of the island concerns a former governor of Curacao who supposedly suffered from intense migraines. Especially irritated by the color white, he ordered many of the buildings painted into the diverse pastel colors that we see in Willemstad and the surrounding cities to this day. You will delight in strolling through the colorful streets of Dutch style homes and buildings, creating a truly unique Caribbean cultural experience.

Be glad to know that once you have seen your share of the local architecture, there is much more to discover on this fascinating island. Terrific restaurants and nightclubs, world-class casinos featuring all your favorite games, diving and snorkeling outfitters, and scenic national parks all await you as you spend your sun-filled days in unforgettable Curacao.

St. Martin

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to St. Martin

St. Maarten & St. Martin are two fascinating Caribbean countries that share a single island of only 40 square miles in size. In the year 1649, this Caribbean nation split in two; with the Dutch inhabiting the southern portion of the island, and the French inhabiting the north. Today, a peaceful coexistence between the two governments make both nations a charming getaway that welcomes all visitors to bask in their ample beaches, fabulous duty-free shopping, terrific nightlife, exciting casinos, and world-class dining.

If you are looking for a destination to enjoy the quiet and tranquility of the Caribbean, then you might be tempted to look elsewhere, for in recent years, especially after the massive and impressive rebuilding projects on the island following Hurricane Luis in 1995, St. Maarten/St. Martin has become a tourist mecca. But locals are stilly friendly, attractions are plentiful and affordable, and if you are drawn to a variety of water-sports and sport fishing opportunities, then the island is perfect for you.

There are two capital cities on the island, one for the Dutch side, and one for the French. Phillipsburg, St. Maarten is by far the largest city on the island, and the number one destination for cruise-ship passengers. Founded in 1763 by John Phillips, the city has evolved into a major port of call. Stroll through the town and visit Front Street, where you can shop for everything under the sun and enjoy some of the very best bargains anywhere in the Caribbean. The city is a hustling and bustling capital that is the epitome of the progress this island has made in recent years. As you head north to the French side of the island you will come across Marigot, St. Martin. Here you will be treated to a far more serene town that will remind you of a small French seaside village.

If time permits, then a small drive to Grand-Case is well worthwhile. Here you will find a quaint fishing village that has escaped the over-development of other parts of the island. Instead, you can soak in the beauty of the Caribbean surroundings in relative tranquility and dine on some of the best local cuisine available.

Tortola/Virgin Gorda

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Tortola/Virgin Gorda

The British Virgin Islands, located in the northeast Caribbean, are a collection of gorgeous islands that used to be inhabited by pirates and sailors. Lying 60 miles east of Puerto Rico, they are exquisite tropical destinations, visited by tourists from all over the world. These islands are comprised of hidden caves and fascinating inlets, and for the most part they are incredibly small in size. Only Tortola and Virgin Gorda are of reasonable stature in geographic terms. The colony of Tortola itself is only 24 square miles, and its capital, Road Town, has emerged as a haven for yacht chartering. This came about after the development of Wickhams Cay, a 70-acre marina and landfill. The southern coast of Tortola mainly consists of great mountains, and the northern coast a fabulous white-sand beach with beautiful bays and banana trees.

Virgin Gorda, only a 12-mile ferry ride away, is equally glorious, with just as rich a history. Both Tortola and Virgin Gorda are controlled by the British , but are controlled loosely, and they are basically free to do as they please. They are governed well, and you will find yourself safe and comfortable in both of these destinations. The locals are friendly and eager to assist you, and for being such tiny locations, there are a wonderful amount of activities to choose from, and plenty of tremendous sightseeing locations and fun to be had.

A wonderful array of water sports is available to the tourists of Tortola and Virgin Gorda, and the restaurants are quite pleasant as well. Taking a ferry or motorboat to any of the other 40 islands in the vicinity is also a great way to spend an afternoon. There are plenty of relatively unexplored, uninhabited regions for you to jaunt around and see what you can find. Taking guided island tours are very enjoyable, as they are both informative and exciting.

The boulder-covered beach known as The Baths has made Virgin Gorda famous with travelers. Christopher Columbus actually named the island, translated to read "Fat Virgin." He thought that the mountain framing of Virgin Gorda looked similar to a protruding stomach. One of the most private and solitude tourist centers in all of the world, Virgin Gorda became slightly more bustling after Little Dix Bay Hotel opened there and started to thrive in the 1960?s. One thing for sure, Tortola and Virgin Gorda remain tranquil yet lovely and are wonderful locations to visit.

Barbados

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Barbados

Barbados is a gorgeous tropical paradise set far away from most other Caribbean islands. It is nearly 1000 miles east of the Netherlands Antilles chain. In 1536, during a quest for fresh water, the Portuguese "discovered" Barbados. They gave the island its current name, which translates to "the bearded ones." This name was derived from their observation of local fig trees that have roots resembling thick beards. Despite the Spanish name, there is virtually no Spanish influence that remains. The British landed a century later, and ruled the island until 1966. It was at that time when Barbados claimed its independence. The English culture, however, is alive and well, and this can be observed by the sport of choice on Barbados. Cricket is the featured game, and, in per capita terms, there are more Barbados born world-class cricket players than any other country in the world.

The capital, Bridgetown, is a marvelous city full of bustling activity and breathtaking surroundings. The island itself is 21 miles long and 14 miles wide. Barbados is quite flat, and the highest point is Mount Hillaby at 1,115 feet. Sugarcane is the crop that has sustained Barbados for decades. The valleys and hills are blanketed by acres of this sweet plant. The people in the city of Bridgetown are especially friendly and hospitable, and they had better be, because tourism is the island's most profitable industry. Unlike some of the other Caribbean islands, the government of Barbados is stable and the business community sophisticated. The population is 260,000, and a great number of them live in or around Bridgetown. The perimeter of Barbados is gorgeous white-sand beach, and the interior is comprised of exquisite rolling hills and flat grasslands.

All of the facilities on Barbados, and particularly in Bridgetown, are fabulous. The city of Bridgetown and all of the luxurious west coast has been named the Platinum Coast by British vacationers. Fine dining, scuba diving, sea excursions, and festivals are only the beginning of the fabulous activities of Barbados. Museums and archaeological sights highlight the rich heritage of the island, and so many of the locations combine education and entertainment. The miles of exquisite beach offer every water sport imaginable, and Barbados has a terrifically active nightlife. A combination of European and strictly Caribbean influences create a diverse and fascinating ambiance everywhere you go.

St. Lucia

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to St. Lucia

Just recently, St. Lucia, and Castries in particular, has become one of the most popular regions for tourists. The accommodations and facilities are top of the line, and the restaurants and activities fabulous. The majority of travelers reside between Castries, which is the capital of St. Lucia, and the northern end of the island. The entire north side of the island is comprised of white-sand beaches to dazzle even the most seasoned and experienced traveler. The water is a glorious blue-green, and the atmosphere is a majestic combination of beach and lush gardens. With the exception of the area between Castries and the northern peninsula, the island is unspoiled and a lot of it only inhabited by exotic animal life.

St. Lucia is a mountainous island of about 240 square miles, and approximately 240,000 citizens reside there. Derek Walcott, native of Castries, won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1992. He is extremely proud of his hometown, but he does not write of his bountiful homeland, out of fear that "everyone [will] go there and overrun the place." Unfortunately, others are doing the writing for him, and the area is already bustling with tourists.

Banana plantations, green-mantled mountains, valleys, wildflowers, a bubbling-volcano, and interesting fishing villages are only the beginning of this incredible paradise. The majestic Pitons, two 2,000 foot mountains that rise from the sea in dramatic and breathtaking fashion, are a one of the scenic wonders of the world.Taking a tour around the island is like watching all of the best cinematography out of your favorite movie. The sights and sounds will dazzle your senses and the beauty will boggle your mind. St. Lucia is truly an experience that is a must for any Caribbean traveler.

The beaches and wide array of outdoor sports on St. Lucia are marvelous. You could not ask for more activities and fun-filled events to occupy your time. The best part about the island is that if you do choose to have a day out of the sun, the shopping, dining, and indoor relaxation stations on St. Lucia are magnificent.

Bonaire

Mediterranean - Western Cruises to Bonaire

Bonaire is the marine life capital of the Caribbean, a "Diver's Paradise" full of deep sea treasures. For both diving and snorkeling, Bonaire is one of the premier locations in the entire world. In fact, it is said that it is easier to scuba dive in Bonaire than anywhere else on earth. Bonaire, French for "good air," is in fact not a French Island. This luxurious paradise is fifty miles north of Venezuela, and is the middle island in the ABC Netherlands Antilles chain (with Aruba and Curacao being the A and C).

The first human inhabitants of Bonaire arrived there over a thousand years ago. They were an Arawak tribe who sailed from Venezuela and lived uninterrupted for 500 years. In 1499 Europeans arrived, and then in the early 1900's oil was discovered in Venezuela, so Bonaire became a primary refining center.

Bonaire's beaches are uncrowded and intimate. The island is a mere 112 square miles, and varies between three to seven miles wide. It is shaped like a boomerang, and so comfortable that you will feel like the island is your own personal resort.

Diving is the main attraction for visitors of Bonaire, but you will find that there truly is much more. The animal and marine life alone is enough to fascinate and perplex even the most seasoned traveler. Among the most exotic creatures on the island are giant iguanas, blue-tailed lizards, wild donkeys, fluorescent lora parrots, and feral goats. Per square foot, there is more cacti in Bonaire than anywhere except the deserts of the southwest and Mexico.

The friendly locals of Bonaire are a perfect complement to the beauty and tranquility that envelops all that inhabit the island. A cornucopia of ancestries, you will find people of African, Dutch, and South American descent. Expatriates from the U.S., Australia, and Britain can be found as well. The majority of Bonaire's inhabitants live in or around the capital city, Kralendijk. Kralendijk is located on the West Coast of the island, home to the majority of the nightlife, exploratory sights, and dining facilities. Bonaire combines relaxation, excitement, and beauty, truly a marvel of nature. This miniature landscape may be geographically small but it is simply wonderful.





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