Dynamic Barcelona is all about architecture, from the magnificent medieval buildings of the Gothic Quarter to the Modernist movement typified by the work of Antoni Gaudi. Though his materials were stone and metal, his forms were organic, awash in curves, swirls, and colours. His masterpiece is the amazing Church of the Sagrada Familia, colossal and as yet unfinished, though construction began in 1882.
A contemporary contribution to the scene is Ricardo Bofill’s post-modernist National Theater of Catalonia, an imaginative combination of classical and modern design, with a greenhouse-like lobby.

A trip to Sète is the perfect opportunity to embrace the concept of far Niente (or to “do sweet nothing”) that are practised in sunny southern France. A day spent doing nothing—and yet, everything—may be just what le doctor ordered.

Take a walk along the canals of “the Venice of Languedoc” to see fishermen and townsfolk on their homemade boats going to and from the market. From late spring to early autumn, the canals turn into friendly battlegrounds for water jousting competitions, a very passionate tradition in Sète’s culture that dates back to 1666.
Here, rival teams row towards one another and attempt to knock each other into the canal using a long wooden lance, while hundreds of spectators cheer them on. In fact, our very own Captain Carl has participated in one of these competitions much to the delight of our guests…and to the dismay of Captain Carl when he fell in the water!
Naturally, after all that cheering, sustenance is needed. Settle in at one of the restaurants along the Quai de le Résistance or Quai Général Durand for a meal of the freshest seafood of oysters, clams, and mussels you can imagine plus a front row seat to the full spectacle of Sète life. How’s that for dinner and a show?

An intriguing mix of modern industry and ancient grandeur, the 2,600-year-old port of Marseille can seem as if you’re on a round-the-world journey just by walking through the streets. For example, the colourful Noailles Market will have you feeling like you’ve been whisked away to North Africa, before the fragrant scent of bouillabaisse brings you firmly back to France.

Watch fishermen auction off the catch of the day in le Vieux Port area or visit the Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée for insight into the history and culture of Marseille. Wander the charming labyrinth of narrow lanes and interesting shops in La Panier, the city’s oldest neighbourhood. Stock up on Savon de Marseille (locally made soap), or perhaps purchase a complete set of santons, hand-carved nativity figures sold by talented artisans.

And don’t forget to indulge in a glass of pastis—an alcoholic beverage made with aniseed and spice that turns an enticing shade of yellow once water is added. Order it like a pro by asking for “un Ricard, s’il vous plait” and then mix to your taste (the traditional method is one part pastis to five parts water). Et voilà!

Monte-Carlo is a place with a reputation that’s far bigger than its mere 0.76 square miles. It’s the kind of place where professional athletes, royals, socialites, and Bond villains (or the actors who play them) rub elbows while searching for elusive lady luck. Come prepared to be amazed by the opulence, by the breathtaking beautiful surroundings, and for some of the finest people-watching this side of the Atlantic.
The Grand Casino is not to be missed, even for non-gamblers. Let it ride, bet it all on black, or simply marvel at the decadence of your luxurious surroundings.
Not into burning money? How about burning rubber? The prestigious Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix race has been held here since 1929. Get the authentic experience by renting a performance car to take you for a spin around the route, if you’re not here to see the real thing.
After your thrill ride, take a walk through the medieval village, known as “The Rock” in the heart of Monte-Carlo. And if you happen to end up in France, don’t worry. Simply cross the street and you’ll be back across the border faster than you can say “jackpot”.

Picture a tiny town of pastel houses lining the shore of a small harbor full of sleek yachts, crowned by a castle and backed by verdant hills dotted with villas. Throw in charming waterside restaurants specializing in seafood, and a national park with miles of hiking trails among chestnut and olive groves, where you can work off the pasta that in Italy is just the first course, between the antipasto and the main.
Now you know why this quaint little fishing village became a playground of the rich and famous, and why you should consider joining them.

Ah, Florence—sublime birthplace of the Renaissance, its historic center full to bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, and museums with such an abundance of riches it could make an art lover weep for joy.
The list of illustrious names connected with this city is mind-boggling: Botticelli, Dante, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo. Other colorful and fascinating characters were of dubious reputation: Machiavelli, and the religious extremist Savonarola, with his bonfire of the vanities. For many years, the city was ruled by the powerful Medici family, patrons of the arts and bankers to the papacy, whose line included six kings and two popes.

Rome has something special to offer to all visitors, no matter their interests and tastes. Whether you daydream about fighting with gladiators in the Coliseum, debating with togaed senators in the Forum, tossing a coin in a fabled fountain, or being awestruck by the magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s masterpieces, Rome seems to live up to its sobriquet as the Eternal City.
When you need sustenance, today’s Rome will provide delizioso pasta e vino. Or perhaps you draw strength from a little retail therapy—the Italians are also renowned for their sense of style.