Cultural Crossing with London & Brugge

There is an abundance of things to see and do in the Ft. Lauderdale area: visit the newly redesigned Ft. Lauderdale Beach and cafes, stroll the historic Riverwalk, shop the luxurious stores on Las Olas Boulevard or adventure to the Everglades for an intriguing air boat excursion.

Near the port city of Hamilton, King’s Wharf offers a visit to the Royal Navy Dockyard, with its Georgian-style fort and the Bermuda Maritime Museum. Set your watch by the town’s clocktower – but be aware: one face tells the time, the other indicates the time of high tide.

Southampton, England, is a surprisingly happening city (don’t miss the Pig in the Wall deli bar and hotel within its medieval walls), but few places can contend with London and its sights for sheer energy, atmosphere and variety. London’s vibrancy—in art, in music, in architecture—is inimitable. It’s a city made up of not just multiple attractions, grand structures and great cultural institutions (though there are plenty of those), but also scenic parks, walkable villages and striking modern additions.
Culinary pioneers are reviving traditional techniques and introducing food that can be found at the forefront of the world’s premier restaurant experiences. Leg-powered sightseeing exploration (by bike or on foot) around London maximizes opportunities for stumbling across tiny old pubs serving fresh British ales, secret alleys and courtyards housing quirky art galleries or fantastic shops—from famous retail emporiums known the world over to diminutive boutiques stocking unique souvenirs to take home.

From this busy port city tour to canal-laced Brugge; Brussels, home of the European Union; and Ghent, mecca for chocolate lovers. Sample shore excursion: Antwerp, City of Diamonds.

Often called the gateway to Europe, the port city of Rotterdam is full of old-world charm. The harbor offers amazing views and a maze of wharves and canals, along with towering spires make for a beautiful sight. Take a stroll and duck into one of the pubs or eateries along the way.
Only three pre World War II buildings in the city centre have survived and are worth a look – city hall, St. Laurence church and the White House. Explore the Museum Boymans van Beuningen, which houses a unique collection dating from the 14th century, or the Museum Voor Volkenkunde – home to ethnological exhibits. Exquisite architecture can be seen in many areas of Rotterdam, most notably in the Delfshaven quarter of the city – where 18th century houses are on display. For a laugh, check out Kijk-Kubus, an upside-down house.