Southampton (London), England - "Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford." Samuel Johnson's famous words are as true today as when he spoke them. A visitor to London could fill a month with fascinating people, art, music, late-night dancing, fabulous shopping, an endless array of pubs and first rate meals.

Tourists should take in Victoria Station, the beauty of Westminster Abbey, Parliament, and the pomp of Buckingham Palace. And then, there are the "Elgin Marbles" at the British Museum and the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. Or visit Sherlock Holmes' HQ on Baker Street (you know the address). After all that, make what might be the most important stop of all: grab a pint at one of the many corner pubs that's been hosting revelers since before America was a nation.

London is most certainly a place to "take in," not just "pass through." You won't be bored.

After your time in London, you'll transfer to Southampton to board your ship and start your cruise conference. Options for doing that from bus transport to the train (which is very near the cruise port in Southampton) to private taxi are all solid choices.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Bergen, Norway - A key member of the medieval Hanseatic League of Merchants, Bergen has had plenty of practice combining commerce with community. In this delightful city, you will find pleasure in the Bryggen waterfront district and marketplace, or travel out of town for some great backcountry hikes. On the shores of Nordnes Lake is Troldhaugen—the historic home of composer Edvard Grieg.

Alesund, Norway - The picturesque Art Nouveau town of Älesund has a beautiful setting across several islands stretching out into the sea, and is situated at the very entrance to the world heritage listed Geirangerfjord. The town is also an excellent starting point for round trips to some of Norway's most popular tourist attractions. Ålesund is internationally renowned for its unique architecture in the Art Nouveau style. The town was devastated by fire a winter's night in 1904, laying 850 houses in ashes and leaving 10.000 people homeless. During a remarkably short period of time, the new Ålesund was rebuilt in the unique architectural style, especially significant from 1890-1910, with a myriad of turrets, spires and medieval ornaments. The Art Nouveau Centre portrays the town's unique position in Norwegian architectural history.

Flam, Norway - Arriving in Flam feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Home to only 350 inhabitants, the village is situated at the inner end of the Aurlandsfjorden, the world's deepest fjord reaching a staggering 1,308 meters. From the harbor, take a brief stroll to the Flam Railway and take the 20-kilometer ride through the Myrdal Mountains and along the fjord. Head to Otternes Farm Village, made up of 27 different buildings that date back to the 17th century. Then, let the waterfall at Stalheimsfossen take your breath away, or drive to Stegastein viewpoint to take in the beauty of the fjord.

Stavanger, Norway - Perched on Norway's dramatic western coast, Stavenger is a city full of historic architecture, quaint cafes and ocean views. Check out Gamle Stavanger, the picturesque old town, where you'll find well-preserved wooden buildings dating back to the 18th century painted in unique pastel hues. Learn more about the Vikings at the Museum of Archaeology, or visit 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral — thanks to a series of rebuilding efforts over the years, it features architectural elements from Romanesque to ornate Baroque. Then, take the short trip to Prekestol, the "Preacher's Pulpit," a rocky natural viewing point overlooking Lyse Fjord.