Ponta Delgada is the largest city in the Azores, located on Sao Miguel, the largest island in the group. Lying some 900 miles west of the mainland, the Azores have been under the control of Portugal since the mid-1500s. Volcanic in origin, the islands have evolved over the centuries to become verdant and agriculturally productive. Sao Miguel is usually considered the most appealing island, attracting an increasing number of vacationers in search of peaceful, unspoiled destinations.

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.

The great period of “the Discoveries” accounted for phenomenal wealth brought back from India, Africa and Brazil by the great Portuguese navigators. Gold, jewels, ivory, porcelain and spices helped finance grand new buildings and impressive monuments in Lisbon, the countrys capital city. As you sail up the Tagus River, be on deck to admire Lisbons panorama and see some of the great monuments lining the river. Lisbon is one of Europes smallest capital cities but considered by many visitors to be one of the most likeable. Spread over a string of seven hills, the city offers a variety of faces, including a refreshing no-frills simplicity reflected in the people as they go unhurriedly through their day enjoying a hearty and delicious cuisine accompanied by the countrys excellent wines.