Nestled along the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, on Spain's southeastern Costa Blanca lies Alicante. Long hailed for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm, Alicante is far more than a sum of its parts. Inquisitive visitors will find a mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and natural beauty, making it an appealing location for travelers looking to explore the coastal regions of Spain. Visitors wanting to top up their tans should head to Playa del Postiguet, which provides an oasis of relaxation against a backdrop of the azure sea. If you are after a taste of local life, then head along the Explanada de España, a palm-lined promenade, where you'll see groups of friends converge to stroll, sip coffee, and bask in the Mediterranean sun. But it is not all fun in the sun - the town's history is interwoven with civilizations that have left their mark such as the Santa Barbara Castle, perched atop Mount Benacantil, is a testament to the city's strategic significance over the centuries.

To arrive at this old fishing port on the Costa Tropical is to instantly fall into an Iberian trance. The air is fragranced with jasmine, the walls are laced with the clashing scarlet and magenta blooms of bougainvillea and hibiscus. Warmed by the winds off Africa and cradled by the Sierra Nevada, this corner of Spain is mild and sunny even in the winter months. Mango and avocado thrive here, as does sugarcane, which gave this place its nickname, Little Cuba (make sure to try the local rum). Boats glide in and out daily to add the fruits of the sea to the menus at local restaurants and bodegas with fresh ingredients for tapas – a tradition which was invented here in Andalucia. Stroll for 45 minutes (or take a bus or taxi) to the Old Town, find a shady spot beneath the spreading palms in the Plaza Espana, and sit back and sample some of the regional delicacies. Start with a refreshing gazpacho, then select gambas pil pil (shrimp sizzling in chili oil), Padron peppers, patatas bravas, and seafood croquetas... washed down with a chilled glass of Tinto de Verano, the red wine of summer, and a lighter, less touristy choice than sangria. Afterwards, there are lengthy stretches of golden sand near the port on which to snooze off your decadent lunch before heading back to the ship.Exploring the Alhambra in nearby Granada, taking in the sea and mountain views from the clifftop Balcony of Europe in nearby Nerja, birdwatching in the Charca de Suárez wetlands.

Striking, atmospheric and delightfully unspoilt, the streets of the Azorean capital are lined with historic mansions and houses, blazing white against the cobalt sky, edged and decorated with traditional black basalt stone. A fantastic destination for wildlife lovers, in spring and summer boats head out of here each morning to spot the dolphins, whales, and sea turtles making their way through the Atlantic waters. But the city's three lush botanic gardens, beautiful Azulejo tiling in the ornate churches, and shorefront boardwalk lined with boutiques and restaurants, makes it ideal to visit at any time of year.

Don't be fooled by Horta's isolated location in the Atlantic on the Azorean island of Faial – for centuries, this fascinating city has seen many come and go, playing host to sailors of every stripe, from intrepid explorers to pleasure seekers and naval seamen. The historic tangle of streets, which winds around former merchants' houses and statuesque churches, bookended in time by the 16th-century defensive walls and the gleaming contemporary marina, is perfect for exploring on foot. Horta's rich, seafaring heritage is best experienced with a sunset GT at the world-famous Peter Café Sport – a bar that has been welcoming sailors to the island since 1918.

Formerly a strategic base for Britain's Royal Navy, this Bermudan port is now a bustling hub with historic buildings and wharves that house art galleries, craft markets, boutiques, and restaurants. There are endless treasures to be discovered: uncover Bermuda's fascinating past at the National Museum , dive among shipwrecks and colorful coral reefs in the warm waters surrounding the island, explore the dramatic limestone formations of Crystal Caves, and stroll the distinct blush-pink-sand beaches that Bermuda is famous for. End your day the Bermudan way – with a punchy rum swizzle cocktail.

Formerly a strategic base for Britain's Royal Navy, this Bermudan port is now a bustling hub with historic buildings and wharves that house art galleries, craft markets, boutiques, and restaurants. There are endless treasures to be discovered: uncover Bermuda's fascinating past at the National Museum , dive among shipwrecks and colorful coral reefs in the warm waters surrounding the island, explore the dramatic limestone formations of Crystal Caves, and stroll the distinct blush-pink-sand beaches that Bermuda is famous for. End your day the Bermudan way – with a punchy rum swizzle cocktail.