Costa Fascinosa: LRM - MRS - LRM17A01

     In 1493, when Christopher Columbus first set foot on the white sand beaches of St Maarten, he declared: 'I was looking for the Indies and I found the Garden of Eden'. Named after a priest who lived on the island from 330AD-397AD, St Maarten has been historically influenced by the Dutch, English, French and Spanish.
     Today the island is shared by the Dutch in the south, who call it Sint Marteen and the French in the north, who refer to it as St Martin de Tours. But the first people to leave their mark on the island were Arawak Indians who were skilled farmers and developed a thriving community on St Maarten. In the 17th Century, the existence of salt pans soon attracted the attentions of the Spanish, later displaced by the Dutch and the French. The initial agreement between the Dutch and French to share the tiny island dates back to 1648, although it was broken many times and there were frequent skirmishes between the two sides, at times with British involvement.
     The Caribbean curse - piracy - befell St Maarten for some 150 years and stories still persist of as yet undiscovered treasure buried on the island or sunk with galleons. The more notorious pirates and buccaneers included John Hawkins, Francis Drake, Henry Morgan and William Dampier. The border between the Dutch and French sides of the island is marked by a monument between Union Road and Bellevue. Each side of the island has splendid beaches and the crystal clear waters offer excellent bathing and numerous watersports. The tiny port of Philipsburg extends along a sandbank between the sea and a reclaimed salt pond.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the island of Tenerife and one of the most important urban centres in the Canary Islands. Located on the northeastern coast, the city blends a relaxed island atmosphere with a vibrant cultural life and modern architecture. The city centre is full of squares, promenades and green spaces, with Plaza de España and García Sanabria Park standing out as ideal spots for a walk or a break. The city is also known for the contemporary concert hall Auditorio de Tenerife, whose striking design has become one of the city’s landmarks.

Not far from the centre lies the popular Las Teresitas beach, covered in golden sand. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also home to one of the largest carnivals in the world, whose festive atmosphere and colourful spectacle attract visitors from all over.

The local cuisine features traditional specialities such as papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, fresh fish, and seafood. The city is well connected by transport, and its mild climate makes it an excellent destination all year round.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the perfect place for those looking to combine urban energy with natural beauty and a laid-back life by the ocean.

Tangier, located at the very northern tip of Morocco, is where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. For centuries, this city has captured the imagination of travelers, artists, and adventurers. Its location—just 14 kilometers from Spain—has made it a crossroads of cultures, continents, and worlds. Tangier exudes a cosmopolitan spirit, where Arab, Berber, European, and African influences blend into a city of truly unique character.

The old town, or medina, enchants with its narrow winding streets, whitewashed houses with blue doors, vibrant markets, and hidden courtyards. Every step through this labyrinth reveals a surprise—a vintage café, a quiet mosque, a local spice shop, or a tucked-away art gallery. Above the medina stands the Kasbah, a centuries-old fortress offering stunning views over the sea and the Strait of Gibraltar, and housing a museum rich in Moroccan art and history.

In the 20th century, Tangier was known as a “city of spies,” artists, and writers. It was home to and inspired figures like Paul Bowles, Tennessee Williams, Henri Matisse, and many others. That bohemian spirit still lingers—in bookshops, cafés, old hotels, and the stories of the people who live here. Beyond its cultural heritage, Tangier offers natural wonders as well. Nearby are the famous Caves of Hercules, steeped in legend, and a rugged coastline perfect for exploring. Along the seafront promenade, the city reveals its modern face—with hotels, restaurants, galleries, and sweeping views of the water.

Tangier is a place where history and modernity intertwine at every turn. A city that does not hide its complexity, but wears it with pride. This is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel, to listen, and to absorb the rhythm of a city that has never had just one face, but has always been a world of its own.

Malaga is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history spanning over 2,800 years. The city was founded by the Phoenicians around 770 BC, and was later ruled by the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors, each leaving behind a rich architectural and cultural legacy. Some of the most notable landmarks are the Roman Theatre, the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, which offers a stunning view over Malaga and the coast, and numerous museums. The most notable ones include the Picasso Museum, the Carmen Thyssen Museum, and the La Manquita Cathedral.

The city is also known as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, and is home to La Concepción, one of the most significant botanical gardens in Europe and the modern Muelle Uno promenade.

Malaga offers beautiful beaches, such as Playa de la Malagueta, close to the city center, and Playa del Palo, as well as a rich gastronomic scene focused on fresh local ingredients. Specialties include espeto (grilled sardines), gazpacho (cold tomato soup), a wide variety of tapas, and sweet wines like Moscatel. The Atarazanas Market is the perfect place to sample local food and buy souvenirs.

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a city with a rich and diverse history that dates back to the Roman era. Over the centuries, it was under Roman, Arab, Byzantine, and Christian rule, all of which have left a lasting mark on its architecture and cultural identity. During the Middle Ages, Barcelona became an important commercial and cultural center of Catalonia, and in the 19th century, it experienced significant industrial and urban development.

One of the most notable architects associated with Barcelona was Antoni Gaudí, whose works such as the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà have become iconic symbols of the city. His unique style, which blends elements of Gothic, Modernism, and natural forms, has made Barcelona a uniquely vibrant urban space. Among the city’s most famous attractions are La Rambla, a lively promenade stretching from Plaça de Catalunya to the sea, and the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), the old part of the city filled with medieval alleys, buildings, and churches, including the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia. The artistic spirit of the city can also be felt in the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation, which house works by two of Catalonia’s greatest artists.

Barcelona is also renowned for its famous football club, FC Barcelona, whose stadium Camp Nou attracts thousands of visitors eager to experience the passion and pride that Catalans have for their team.

The city also offers a rich culinary scene – from its famous tapas to traditional dishes such as paella, fideuà, zarzuela, and the dessert crema catalana. A highlight is the Boqueria Market, where visitors can taste local products and delicacies. Today, Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, offering a perfect blend of history, art, architecture, sport, gastronomy, and Mediterranean spirit.

Ajaccio, the capital of the enchanting island of Corsica, is located on the western coast of the Mediterranean and is known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. This charming city offers a perfect blend of rich history, Mediterranean charm, and natural beauty.

A stroll through Ajaccio takes you along narrow, colorful streets filled with typical Corsican houses and lively markets where you can taste local products like honey, cheese, and wine. Napoleon’s house has been turned into a museum, and his presence is felt at every step through monuments and museums dedicated to his life and legacy. Enjoy views of the Mediterranean coast as you walk along the vibrant promenade, filled with restaurants and cafés where you can savor fresh fish and Corsican culinary specialties. Ajaccio is surrounded by beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

For nature lovers, numerous hiking and cycling trails near the city offer the chance to explore the island’s dramatic landscapes, from mountain peaks to untouched coves. Ajaccio is also a great starting point for excursions to other parts of Corsica, famous for its wild and pristine nature.

With its relaxed atmosphere, rich history, and stunning scenery, Ajaccio is a destination that enchants visitors seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and Mediterranean life.

Genoa, located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea, is one of the most historically significant cities in Italy and truly the “Jewel of Liguria.” Over the centuries, it has been an important commercial and maritime center, reaching its peak during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance as one of the most powerful naval forces in the Mediterranean. Genoa is also the birthplace of the famous explorer Christopher Columbus, who set out on his journey to the New World with the support of Genoese merchants. The city also gave the world the renowned violinist Niccolò Paganini, one of the greatest virtuosos in the history of music.

Today, Genoa offers a rich cultural and historical heritage. Among its main attractions are the Porto Antico (Old Port), the impressive Genoa Aquarium, and the Old Town, known for its narrow alleys, churches, and UNESCO-protected palaces. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the historic Palazzi dei Rolli are enduring symbols of the city's wealth and influence through the centuries.

Genoese cuisine is a true delight for food lovers — the most famous dish is Pesto alla Genovese, while focaccia is another staple, along with a variety of fresh seafood dishes. For those with a sweet tooth, traditional desserts like pandolce and canestrelle perfectly round off the culinary experience.

Genoa is a city where history, art, the sea, and gastronomy come together — an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Marseille, the second largest city in France and one of the oldest cities in Europe, boasts a rich history and vibrant atmosphere, situated along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Founded by the Greeks over 2,600 years ago, the city has been influenced by many civilizations throughout the centuries, leaving a lasting mark on its architecture and identity.

Among its main attractions is the Old Port (Vieux Port) – the heart of city life, recognizable by its boats, cafés, and restaurants. The impressive Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the city, the islands, and Château d’If, the famous fortress from The Count of Monte Cristo. Also notable are the historic Le Panier district and MuCEM, a modern museum dedicated to Mediterranean culture.

Marseille’s cuisine includes specialties such as bouillabaisse – a traditional fish soup, and panisse – chickpea cakes. The city is full of authentic restaurants offering local flavors.

Nearby, the Calanques National Park is famous for its spectacular cliffs and clear waters, while charming towns like Aix-en-Provence and the fishing village of Cassis make perfect day trips. Wine lovers can explore the Provencal vineyards and enjoy tastings.

Colorful streets and historic buildings tell stories of the past, while sunsets over the sea create a special, warm atmosphere worth experiencing. Marseille is a place where tradition meets modern energy, ideal for pleasant moments and discovering authentic Mediterranean culture.