CME Cruise Conference

Barcelona, Spain -

Barcelona is a one of the world's great cities. Stroll down her tree-lined boulevards, the magnificent Passeig de Gràcia or the more touristed Las Ramblas. On the Passeig, shop a serious fashion district while marveling at examples of Mordenisme architecture, seemingly sculpted from the stuff of dreams (Gaudi's masterpiece of a family home, Casa Batlló is well worth a visit). If a trip on the Passeig hasn't convinced you of Gaudi's genius, a visit to La Sagrada Familia Cathedral will do the trick; this fantastic, soaring marvel will live on in your memory long after you've returned.

Not far from the Passeig and just north of Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter (the Barri Gotic) provides an abundance of shopping opportunities for all tastes, and a bit of European history to boot - check out the tranquil Cathedral of Barcelona. To see a bit of local life a visit to a food market is a quick, fun detour: try Santa Caterina near the Cathedral or Mercado de La Boqueria, right off of Las Ramblas.

Barcelona's food is also a highlight: stop into a tapas bar and try a variety of delicacies. "Standard" restaurants of every style are available, too. And, there's music, too! Visit an underground jazz club or the magnificent Palau de la Música Catalana; or stop by the Palau Dalmases for a stunning, flamenco performance (it's near the Picasso museum). Did we mention art? One of the largest collections of Picasso's art is found at the Museau Picasso, and a great collection of contemporary, figurative (i.e not abstract) painting and sculpture is housed at the European Museum of Modern Art just around the corner.

It's probably clear by now that you really can't get it all done in a day (even if all means "just the must-sees"). So, stay for a day or three in the Gothic Quarter or near Plaça de Catalunya and really get a feel for what makes Barcelona such a wonderful place. Partly it's the result of the "accidents" of its history and present: as the regional capital of Spain's prosperous Catalunya region, Barcelona has a "flavor" that is a bit of a mix between Spanish and French (it's located quite close to the French border). Yes, you can practice your Spanish here - it attracts Spaniards from throughout the country - but you'll also see and hear Catalan with it's own charm. You won't regret your time here.

Valencia, Spain - Incredibly, Valencia is a hidden gem of a big city in Spain. Although, it doesn't get the same attention that Barcelona and Madrid get, it competes quite well with those two well known destinations. Food, Shopping, Art and Architecture can be found in abundance; take some time and wander through the winding maze of medieval streets and stubble on your newest favorite shop/bar/restaurant. Too bad cruises don't depart from here; you could certainly spend a few days visiting Valencia's must-sees. One highlight is the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències) designed by architect Santiago Calatrava. This beautiful complex consists of a cinema, garden, theater, planetarium, science museum and more!

Cartagena, Spain - In the southeast of Spain on the Mediterranean Sea, you'll find a natural harbor surrounded by five hills - welcome to the seaport known as Cartagena. Cartagena was originally settled in 223 BC. The city has flourished under Roman, Muslim and Arab rule, and today offers a vast cultural legacy. Cartagena was the main city of the Spanish Carthaginians, who named it after their own capital. The port is rich in ancient and maritime history. The town is walled, the harbor defended by forts, and Roman ruins are scattered throughout.

Malaga, Spain - Málaga is the gateway to the Andalusian countryside and the Costa del Sol, some of the region’s most impressive beaches. It also is home to a number of magnificent palaces, including the Moorish Alcabaza and Gibralfaro.

Cadiz (Seville), Spain - Experience Spain’s vibrant culture on a Seville cruise, departing from the historic port of Cadiz. Drenched in Andalucian sunlight and scented with orange blossoms, the city sprawls along the Guadalquivir River. It boasts a rich Moorish legacy with three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, featuring gracefully adorned towers and palaces showcasing intricate Mudejar design.

Tangier, Morocco - Situated just across the narrow Strait of Gibraltar from Europe, Tangier has long comprised a hybrid culture that is nearly as European as it is African. Standing atop Cap Spartel, one can gaze down on the place where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. The “Hollywood” district where the foreign embassies have traditionally been located reflects the European influence. But ascending the hill above the waterfront, one enters the narrow, winding alleys of the Kasbah, the city’s oldest, most Moroccan section. Down the coast, nearby Tetouan retains a nearly untouched walled medina, with sections originally occupied by Andalusian, Berber and Jewish populations. It is small enough that visitors can explore it without risking becoming lost, making it a perfect choice as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Porto Leixoes, Portugal - Visit this city once and you are sure to want to come back for more. Located in northern Portugal, the city spreads across the base of a forested valley with crimson peaks on its sides. While it is famous for its Port wine, Porto is also home to many attractions including the Réserve Naturelle de Scandola, the marine reservation protected by UNESCO with amazing Calanques.

Lisbon, Portugal - Make your own discoveries in the city that launched the Age of Discovery. Cross the River Tagus on its soaring suspension bridge. Wander the maze of streets in the Alfama, the old Moorish quarter, dominated by the medieval Castle of St. George where peacocks strut and shriek. Stroll the Baixa, shop for elegant shoes.