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. When your cruise ends, you'll head back to take in more of London), or head home from Heathrow or Gatwick (if by taxi, consider an optional detour to visit Stonehenge).

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Bordeaux (La Rochelle), France - Head to southwestern France to see the town that is known all over the world for its wine. The historic part of this lively university city is the world's largest urban World Heritage Site. Stroll around the elegant Place de la Bourse with its beautiful 18th-century limestone palaces and continue on to the public gardens that are situated near the quays of the river Garonne. Venture out of town and take a trip to a wine château to see some sunny vineyards and taste different types of Bordeaux wine, which has been produced in the region since the 8th century. There's plenty to discover with this attractive port city's vibrant dining scene as well.

Bilbao, Spain - Bilbao, Spain's sixth-largest city, is being revitalized with the help of astounding strides in art and architecture. New life arrived in this commercial/industrial hub via the astonishing Bilbao Guggenheim Museum; the new, sleek glass and steel tube metro system; and the stunning glass-decked parabolic arch footbridge above the Nervion River. Bilbao also provides an excellent home base from which to explore the diverse Basque country, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pyrenees.

La Coruna, Spain - La Coruna has tons to offer the curious traveler. You can explore the delightful region of Spain known as Galacia, see a Roman lighthouse built in the second century which is still in use today, and glimpse La Coruna'a ancient past in the celtic stone monoliths. Appreciaters of nature can look out over the verdant countryside, small coves, and magnificent coastlines.

Paris (Le Havre), France - Paris is an iconic city — a melange of everything artistic and sublime, with a worldwide reputation for excellence in cuisine, fashion, architecture and the fine arts. After you take the drive in from the port (just over two hours), hit the streets to see the city's monumental landmarks: Pass through the Arc de Triomphe, and stand in the presence of the Eiffel Tower. The beauty here is only matched by the history and culture. Cruise to Paris to feel the cool morning air outside Gothic Notre Dame cathedral, and see works from prehistoric to postmodern at the Louvre. At evening, walk the lamplit avenues as restaurants' wooden tables and rattan chairs spill onto the sidewalks and terraces. Pull up a seat, order a glass of vin rougeand a plate of pate on toast, and dive in.