Crystal Serenity - February 3, 2024

Famed as a year-round vacation resort, San Diego also carries huge economic clout as California's second largest city. With magnificent beaches and two world-class zoos, the city enjoys a dazzling Mediterranean climate and a rich multicultural heritage. The surrounding county embraces forested mountains, vast desert lands, and miles of sunny beaches. It just doesn't seem fair to the rest of us.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Honolulu offers many wonderful attractions. Aloha Tower is famous for greeting all who arrive in the port of Honolulu, and has the best views of the city. The Bishop Museum has the world's largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts, and the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil, has served as the residence of the last two Hawaiian monarchs.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Rangiroa is the largest atoll of the Tuamotu Archipelago which comprises 78 coral atolls, scattered over several hundred miles of the eastern Pacific Ocean governed by French Polynesia. Life on these remote atolls is simple, quiet and peaceful. The interior lagoons are a haven for black pearl farms, fish breeding farms, snorkeling and scuba diving.

James Michener called it the most beautiful island in the South Pacific. You may confirm his opinion, either by the local "Le Truck" transport, 4-wheel-drive van, or in a helicopter overhead. And the offshore beauty is accessible by a glass-bottomed boat or by snorkeling.

The largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti held a magical attraction for artist Paul Gauguin and writer Robert Louis Stevenson. To understand why, simply listen to the winds whistling through casuarina trees on a secluded black-sand beach, or stroll through beautiful botanical gardens and marvel at island flora.

Here, you'll find the real South Seas' experience -- a casual, barefoot existence amidst white sand beaches and multi-hued lagoons surrounded by jagged mountains and volcanic spires that reach into the clouds, while below, valleys are blanketed with the colors that one only finds when tropical climates and rich, volcanic soils meet.

The largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti held a magical attraction for artist Paul Gauguin and writer Robert Louis Stevenson. To understand why, simply listen to the winds whistling through casuarina trees on a secluded black-sand beach, or stroll through beautiful botanical gardens and marvel at island flora.

The largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti held a magical attraction for artist Paul Gauguin and writer Robert Louis Stevenson. To understand why, simply listen to the winds whistling through casuarina trees on a secluded black-sand beach, or stroll through beautiful botanical gardens and marvel at island flora.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Capital of the Cook Islands, Rarotonga is an exquisite slice of paradise. Only 20 miles wide and home to under 10,000 inhabitants, the island offers spectacular beauty without crowds or compromise. Visit a 19th-century trading post. Sample the delicacies at an Umukai feast. No snakes, poisonous insects, or wild animals live on Rarotonga, so your hikes are sure to be as safe as they are enjoyable.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

The Kingdom of Tonga is the oldest, and last remaining Polynesian monarchy. See the place where Captain Cook landed in 1777, along with the now huge tree that was planted on that occasion. Visit the ancient tombs of Tongan kings. Then view local crafts at the Tongan National Centre.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Lautoka is a very clean city and environmental concerned. It has a wonderful botanical garden and children's park. The main street of the city, Vitogo Parade, has been decorated with the planting of royal palm trees on one side. The city's municipal market, which has a floor area of about 58,000m, is another attraction for both residents and tourists.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila, is an exciting, bustling town that curves around Vila Bay and creeps up its steep hillsides. You will find interesting shops, bars, and restaurants featuring the islands' specialty, flying fox, or coconut crab. The rugged island offers horseback riding, hiking to waterfalls, river canoeing and kayaking, plus snorkeling and scuba diving trips in Port Vila.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.

New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.

Tauranga is located in the Bay of Plenty and is the region's largest residential and commercial area, boasting profuse sunshine and a fertile landscape. The township is the center of a large kiwifruit and citrus growing area and houses a population of approximately 91,000 people, including those residing in Mount Maunganui.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Picton is in one of the sunniest parts of New Zealand, the upper South Island. One of Picton's attractions (besides the port) is the fact that it sports what may be the only remaining miniature golf course in NZ.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Say 'G'day' to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Stroll along the world-famous Bondi and Watsons Beaches. Tour the Sydney Opera House on Bennelong Point, shop for Aboriginal art, or go on a photographic safari. This diverse land is home to crocodiles, koalas, emus, and, of course, kangaroos.

Say 'G'day' to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Stroll along the world-famous Bondi and Watsons Beaches. Tour the Sydney Opera House on Bennelong Point, shop for Aboriginal art, or go on a photographic safari. This diverse land is home to crocodiles, koalas, emus, and, of course, kangaroos.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

The vast majority of South Australia's 1.4 million people live in this capital city. Adelaide enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and is home to miles of fine sandy beaches. Sample the fine wines and the fresh seafood. The surfing in the Adelaide region is legendary as well. The region is also home to countless gardens, parks, and nature reserves.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Fremantle, the main port of Western Australia, was once a major whaling center. Today, Fremantle boasts a splendid climate, a huge fishing fleet, and warm people. Freo, as the city is known to the locals, is a great place for food lovers, with its many restaurants, cafes, and al fresco dining opportunities. Watch the sidewalk entertainment on South Terrace, a street known as Cappucino Strip.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

With its sparkling beaches, gorgeous wilderness, and ideal location on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Broome is truly the jewel of Western Australia. Feast your eyes upon the pearl-encrusted altar of Beagle Bay Church. Dare to feed the residents of Broome Crocodile Park, or search for the rumored treasure at Buccaneer Rock--but watch out for the pirate ghost who is said to return nightly for it!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

The exotic island of Bali is marked by the natural beauty of the island and the strong artistic community and history of the Balinese. Divided by a string of volcanoes through the center of the island, Bali's fabulous beaches and offshore reefs offer numerous opportunities for scuba diving, surfing, sailing, and windsurfing. Or visit the temple and museum of Pura Jagatnatha, with exhibits of prehistoric and modern art.

The exotic island of Bali is marked by the natural beauty of the island and the strong artistic community and history of the Balinese. Divided by a string of volcanoes through the center of the island, Bali's fabulous beaches and offshore reefs offer numerous opportunities for scuba diving, surfing, sailing, and windsurfing. Or visit the temple and museum of Pura Jagatnatha, with exhibits of prehistoric and modern art.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

One of Asia's great success stories, this island republic has merged diverse cultures into a dynamic and thriving nation. Clean, modern and full of green gardens, its neighborhoods reflect the Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arab and European backgrounds of its past. After sampling the legendary shopping, retire to Raffles Hotel's famous bar and toast Maugham, Kipling and Noel Coward with a Singapore Sling.

One of Asia's great success stories, this island republic has merged diverse cultures into a dynamic and thriving nation. Clean, modern and full of green gardens, its neighborhoods reflect the Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arab and European backgrounds of its past. After sampling the legendary shopping, retire to Raffles Hotel's famous bar and toast Maugham, Kipling and Noel Coward with a Singapore Sling.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka means "Resplendent Land," an apt description for this beautiful island. Sri Lanka lies fifty-five miles north of the equator, just off the southern tip of India. With its unique beauty, warm climate and near-perfect beaches, Sri Lanka is one of Asia's most adored destinations. Since the sixteenth century, the Portuguese, Dutch and British have all left their architectural and cultural marks in Sri Lanka's capital of Colombo. Yet despite its colonial architecture, Sri Lanka has always remained Oriental in spirit, with colorful bazaars, dancing elephants, graceful women in saris, and many Buddhist shrines and temples.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Mormugao is located in Marmagao in Goa state. Mormugao Harbour is one of the most striking natural ports on the west coast of India. Tourists are attracted by the liberal atmosphere, the colonial Portuguese feel, the splendid beaches, and the fabulous sunsets. The seafood of the area is also said to be excellent.

Mumbai (also called Bombay), the capital of the state of Maharashtra, is the Gateway to India, signified by the Apollo Bunder, Mumbai's most famous monument and landmark. Visit the Hanging Gardens for a great panoramic view of Bombay. The ancient Mahalaxmi Temple, the shrine of the goddess of wealth, is also a popular destination.

Mumbai (also called Bombay), the capital of the state of Maharashtra, is the Gateway to India, signified by the Apollo Bunder, Mumbai's most famous monument and landmark. Visit the Hanging Gardens for a great panoramic view of Bombay. The ancient Mahalaxmi Temple, the shrine of the goddess of wealth, is also a popular destination.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Like a magic carpet spread before the sea, Oman's coastal plain is one of the most fertile areas of Arabia. Famous since antiquity as the source of frankincense, Salalah was already a prosperous town when Marco Polo visited it in the 13th century! Inland rise the forbidding Al-Quara Mountains, and the desolate "Empty Quarter" of central Saudi Arabia.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Sail down the Nile River to the ancient city of Safaga, the gateway to the magnificent antiquities of Luxor and Karnak. Site of the ancient metropolis of Thebes, Luxor has a history that dates back 2,000 years. Marvel at the ancient columns and statues. Stroll down the avenue of the Sphinxes to the ceremonial gateway of the temple of Amon-Ra, or sail across the Nile to the Valley of the Kings.

Sail down the Nile River to the ancient city of Safaga, the gateway to the magnificent antiquities of Luxor and Karnak. Site of the ancient metropolis of Thebes, Luxor has a history that dates back 2,000 years. Marvel at the ancient columns and statues. Stroll down the avenue of the Sphinxes to the ceremonial gateway of the temple of Amon-Ra, or sail across the Nile to the Valley of the Kings.

It is the only Jordanian port with direct access to the Red Sea; it remains the trade entrepot to Iraq. Aqaba is also a popular winter and summer seaside resort. Since at least 1000 B.C., a port has existed continuously on the site to handle trade between Palestine and Syria.

It is the only Jordanian port with direct access to the Red Sea; it remains the trade entrepot to Iraq. Aqaba is also a popular winter and summer seaside resort. Since at least 1000 B.C., a port has existed continuously on the site to handle trade between Palestine and Syria.

The Suez Canal is an artificial waterway running across the Isthmus of Suez in northeastern Egypt. It connects the Mediterranean Sea with the Gulf of Suez, an arm of the Red Sea. The canal, about 101 miles long, has no locks because the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Suez have roughly the same water level. Most of the canal has only a single traffic lane, with several passing bays.

Limassol is the major port of the island republic of Cyprus. Atlthough it began as a small market town, Limassol today is a bustling commercial center for fruits, vegetables, wine, and manufactured goods. It is also home to many restaurants and taverns. Visitors should explore the Archaelogical and Folk museums. The annual Wine Festival and Carnival Celebration are also very popular.

Legend has it that Apollo blessed this isle with sunshine and beauty. True to the myths, the "Island of Roses" is rich in magnificent scenery and umbrella-lined beaches. Take an excursion to Lindos, where high on a hill rises an ancient acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena. You will also want to see the medieval Old Town, once home to the Crusading Knights of St. John, and tour the Grand Master's Palace, an Italian restoration famed for its superb mosaic floors.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Once called Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire is the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia. This is the Golden Horn, the door between East and West, and your first vision of its domes and minarets is unforgetable. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace await - as does the Grand Bazaar, laden with carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar.

Once called Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire is the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia. This is the Golden Horn, the door between East and West, and your first vision of its domes and minarets is unforgetable. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace await - as does the Grand Bazaar, laden with carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar.

The capital of Macedonia, a rich experience awaits you in this wealthy, energetic and youthful Greek city. Revel in cosmopolitan pleasures: sophisticated shops and cafes, markets hidden away beyond historic city squares, and the superlative Archaelogical Museum are but a few. Explore the castlebound Old City and a sampling of fine Byzantine churches. Or, spend the day touring the ruins of the ancient city of Pella, birthplace of Alexander the Great, or Vergina-where the intact tomb of Philip II, Alexander's father, was recently discovered.

The capital of Macedonia, a rich experience awaits you in this wealthy, energetic and youthful Greek city. Revel in cosmopolitan pleasures: sophisticated shops and cafes, markets hidden away beyond historic city squares, and the superlative Archaelogical Museum are but a few. Explore the castlebound Old City and a sampling of fine Byzantine churches. Or, spend the day touring the ruins of the ancient city of Pella, birthplace of Alexander the Great, or Vergina-where the intact tomb of Philip II, Alexander's father, was recently discovered.

Thanks to its privileged position at the foot of Mt. Pelion on the Pagasitic gulf, Volos is a good base for enjoying the sea, wooded slopes and green valleys that surround it. With 71.000 inhabitants, is a cheerful, lively town, soundly laid out with pleasant broad streets. The waterfront is an ideal spot for a stroll. A modern coastal avenue bustling with life, it is lined with pastry shops, cafes and restaurants

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

This charming, picturesque resort where Antony and Cleopatra used to vacation is best known as the port for the ancients ruins of Ephesus - one of the world's most wondrous archaeological sites. Explorations should include such masterpieces as the Great Amphitheatre, where St. Paul addressed the Ephesians, the Library of Celsus, and the temples of Athena and Apollo - all connected by marble streets rutted by the wheels of countless chariots.

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.

Paros Island has a lot to offer its visitors! It has many beautiful sandy beaches for all tastes. Some are hidden, tiny little bays, enclosed by extraordinarily "sculptured" rocks, others are long and wide. The lovely countryside with gentle, terraced hills and magnificent rock formations, endless vineyards, olive groves and fruit trees is heart-warming. In the spring, the island is completely green, with flowers growing everywhere!

With its steep volcanic flanks looming straight up from the sea, and the tiny white village of Thira clinging high atop the cliffs, Santorini is perhaps the most breathtaking and legendary of all the Greek Isles. To the south is Akrotiri, where recent Minoan excavations support the theories that Santorini might be the fabled lost continent of Atlantis.

Spetsai Island figures prominently in modern Greek history after playing a pivotal role in the War for Independence. Surrounded by crystal-clear water and covered with verdant pine trees, Spetsai stands in contrast to most of the other Aegean Islands. The island features numerous inlets and coves for visitors to explore. In town tourists can visit many museums and points of cultural interest.

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. In a single day, you can climb the hill of the Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and then find a welcoming taverna for some spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and with luck, energetic Greek dancing.

Monemvassia means single entry - there is only one way in - through the gigantic iron doors. Throughout history this was the perfect place to live in since it was almost impossible to invade. Today as you walk through the narrow cobble stone paths you will find a lively marketplace full of cafes and restaurants, antique stores and shops full of handcrafted items and art.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Once regarded as Europe's grandest, most beautiful city, Palermo is still quite impressive. The Four Corners of Palermo, where each 17th-century Spanish Baroque facade is adorned with a statue, is one of the city's most memorable sights. The Fontana Pretoria, often called the Fountain of Shame because of its nude Florentine figures, is also worth noting. Tour the famous Norman Cathedral and Capuchin catacombs.

One of the most spectacular bays in the world lies in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius. Visit the San Carlo Opera House and the cathedral of San Janarious, or tour the ancient ruins in the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

One of the most spectacular bays in the world lies in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius. Visit the San Carlo Opera House and the cathedral of San Janarious, or tour the ancient ruins in the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Civitavecchia is just moments from Rome, Italy's Eternal City. One of the most geographically perfect ports in the world, Civitavecchia boasts a number of compelling area attractions. Stroll through the streets of the medieval town of Tarquinia. View the resplendent Madonnina at the Resort of Pantano.

Renowned as the birthplace of Napolean Bonaparte, Ajaccio is bursting with history and cultural diversity. The Greeks were the first to discover the unique beauty of the island early in the 6th century BC, calling it "Kalliste", or "the beautiful". Climbing through the foothills and the mountains, you'll be surrounded by the greenery covering the mountainside. The local term for this lush plant life is "maquis."

No introduction is needed for what is perhaps the world's best known and most fashionable resort on the Riviera. Immerse yourself in the splendid scenery of the Cote d'Azur with an excursion to the hilltop villages of Gassin and Il Ramatuelle, and the new town of Port Grimaud, built to resemble an old Mediterranean fishing village.

The world's most famous casino (a must see even if you do not gamble), glittering nightlife, first-class dining and shopping, make it one of the world's most glamorous destinations. The casino is an elaborate Italianate structure capped by four towers and a copper-tin roof.

Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family.

A major seaport and naval base, it has a fine natural harbor, protected by forts. It was founded in 225 B.C. and soon became a flourishing port: the chief Carthaginian base in Spain. The medieval Castillo de la Concepcion, whose ruins are surrounded by fine gardens, commands a splendid view of the city and harbor. No traces of the ancient city remain.

One of the "Pillars of Hercules," Gibraltar is an historic landmark with British and Spanish influences. Guarding the entrance to the Atlantic, the great rock still serves as Britain's threshold to the Mediterranean. Take a cable car to the top of the rock for a spectacular view of two continents as well as the famous Barbary apes.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Funchal is a busy port exporting wines, fish, and fruit, it is best known for its beautiful setting and balmy climate, which make it a much-frequented resort. It has a late-15th-century cathedral and a convent church containing the tomb of Jose Goncalves Zarco, who founded the city in 1421.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Nassau/Paradise Island is the capital of the Bahamas. Explore Parliament Square, the government center that dates back to the early 1800s or check out the port's vibrant night life, including more casinos, theatres, and fabulous cuisine than you could possibly fit into a short stay. During the day, there's plenty of golfing, tennis, and swimming.

Explore all that Miami has to offer, from the magnificent Port of Miami, to the world famous Everglades and Biscayne National Parks, historic Coconut Grove, and trendy South Beach. Other attractions include the Miami Seaquarium , Miami MetroZoo, and sports teams the Dolphins, Heat and Marlins. No wonder so many celebrities, such as Gloria Estefan, Madonna and Ricky Martin, call Miami home.