Iceland & Ireland

Amsterdam is an eclectic mix of old and new, historical charm and cosmopolitan flair. It’s a blend of cultures, but still quintessentially Dutch. The people-watching is rewarding, and the quest for rich history is even more so. Take a boat tour along the canals to enjoy the distinct and beautiful personalities of the many bridges you’ll see.

Navigate Cork’s hilly streets and discover the melody of Ireland’s most talkative citizenry, who have a way of making conversation. Visit local artisans and witness their skills in the arts of weaving and cutting crystal.

Belfast has undergone an enormous transformation in recent years and thanks to a focus on expansion and regeneration, the city is now experiencing a tourism renaissance. Today, free from the mayhem that once was, this major Northern Ireland city has done a terrific job in both disassociating from her past and creating a thriving positive public perception. With new cultural quarters—the Cathedral Quarter, the Gaeltacht Quarter, the Queen’s Quarter and the Titanic Quarter—the former linen and shipbuilding epicenter is a flourishing community that blends industry with culture. Here, where the Titanic was so carefully built, you can see beautifully restored Victorian architecture, indulge retail therapy at a fabulous shopping center, and enjoy the quintessentially Irish experience at the lively waterfront, which is a friendly hub of live music, overflowing pubs and modern art.

Iceland’s capital and largest city is located on the country’s southwest coast at the head of Faxafloi Bay. Settled in 877 AD, Reykjavik has grown into an important seaport and center of government and education with theatres, museums and observatories. Interestingly, this modern city still chooses to use water from nearby hot springs to heat all of its buildings.

Iceland’s capital and largest city is located on the country’s southwest coast at the head of Faxafloi Bay. Settled in 877 AD, Reykjavik has grown into an important seaport and center of government and education with theatres, museums and observatories. Interestingly, this modern city still chooses to use water from nearby hot springs to heat all of its buildings.

Ísafjörður is a town in the Westfjords region of northwest Iceland. It’s known for its dramatic landscapes. The old town has wooden houses with corrugated tin roofs built by fishing merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Westfjords Heritage Museum has exhibits on the town’s maritime history, including a collection of old fishing boats. The old hospital, now a cultural center, contains archives and photography.

Akureyi, Iceland’s second largest city—affectionately known as the Capital of North Iceland—is one of the country’s most important ports and fishing centers. Today, Akureyi is creating something of a buzz for its cool café scene, growing gourmet movement and bustling nightlife. But don’t let that fool you. The atmosphere here is always laidback. From a fabulous summer festival program (energized by the near 24-hour daylight), to some of the best winter skiing you could wish for, Akureyi is a great base for exploring Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, all year round.

Located in the northernmost part of the British Isles, cruises to Shetland Islands provide travelers with an easy way to access this remote and rugged part of Scotland that’s made up of nearly 100 small islands. European cruises visiting this fascinating destination stop in Lerwick, the only town in the region.

Lerwick offers a lively and welcoming ambiance with plenty to see and do, and it’s just a short boat or ferry ride away from some of the more remote islands. While exploring the Shetland Islands, you’ll find miles of pristine beaches surrounded by towering cliffs, where bright blue waves crash around impressive rock formations. The archipelago is unlike anything you’ve seen before, making cruises that stop in the Shetland Islands a great way for travelers to get off the beaten path.

Inverness is the Scottish Highland’’ major city. Literally it means “mouth of the River Ness,” and this is the ‘urban’ hub for international visitors who come hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous—yet elusive—Loch Ness Monster. While you are here, be sure to take a cruise down the Loch and a stroll along the riverbank to take not only take in this picturesque spot but work up an appetite for dinner in one of the city’s excellent restaurants, too.

Amsterdam is an eclectic mix of old and new, historical charm and cosmopolitan flair. It’s a blend of cultures, but still quintessentially Dutch. The people-watching is rewarding, and the quest for rich history is even more so. Take a boat tour along the canals to enjoy the distinct and beautiful personalities of the many bridges you’ll see.