Costa Favolosa: PTP - SVN - PTP16A09

     St Kitts and its sister island Nevis comprise a tiny nation with a unique history. St Kitts - on which Basseterre is the main town - is the popular derivation of St Christopher, the name given to the island by Christopher Columbus in 1493. Its inhabitants are called "Kittitians". Nevis gets its name from the Spanish word for snow in description of a curtain of white clouds that at one time supposedly always covered the top of the mountain that dominates the island. In 1623, the two islands became a British colony.
     The islands maintain a close link to their English heritage, although throughout their modern history the English dominance has been regularly challenged, particularly by the French and Spanish eager to control the islands' considerable sugar cane crop. Nevis in particular attracted much commercial interest - and rivalry - as well as considerable piracy. Many of the islands' 45,000 inhabitants can trace their ancestors to the African slave trade of the 17th Century.
     The symbol of contemporary culture on the islands is a carnival, which starts of Christmas Eve and embraces the entire population - and visitors - in a joyous celebration. The St. Kitts Music Festival is also very popular, attracting musicians from all over the Caribbean. The islands, which are part of the British Commonwealth, became independent on September 19, 1983, and have since continued to attract thousands of visitors from around the world.

     The verdant, undulating island of Antigua is the largest of the Leeward Islands, and is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The island has a long association with Britain, having only gained independence in 1981. One of the island's most picturesque spots is English Harbour, where a fortress was erected, at Shirley Heights, to protect Antigua's commerce.
     Within the harbour is Nelson's Dockyard, with a monument dedicated to the English Admiral Horatio, who was based on the island for three years in the 18th Century. The Dockyard fell into disrepair on being abandoned by the Navy at the end of the 19th Century but was reopened in 1961 after 20 years of restoration work. The waters around the Dockyard and the Harbour are now filled with splendid yachts making their way to and from Antigua. The capital of St John's was during the 18th Century the principal British military stronghold in the area. Today it is a thriving Caribbean town, where nearly half of all Antiguans live.
     The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda in St John's features extensive exhibits of Indian arts and crafts - and even has signs that say 'please touch' - plus colonial and Antiguan artefacts, and fossils dating back 35 million years. The first known settlements on Antigua were established in around 2400BC by Siboney Indians, devoted to farming, followed by the Arawaks. Substantial European settlement began in the 17th Century when British entrepreneur Sir Christopher Codrington introduced large-scale production of sugar cane. This brought great prosperity to the island for some 100 years, and a large population of African slaves were brought to Antigua to work the sugar cane plantations. Hence the majority of Antiguans are of African descent.
     Several farms, hotels and restaurants on the island are located on the sites of former plantations.

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.

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.

Savona, located on the Ligurian coast of Italy, is much more than just a seaport and a starting point for cruises – it is a historical and cultural treasure offering a rich experience for all lovers of art, architecture, and history. The city's numerous landmarks testify to its important role throughout the centuries. Among the most notable historical and cultural attractions is the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, built in the 16th century, featuring an elaborately decorated Baroque façade, frescoes, and an altarpiece dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Nearby is Piazza del Duomo, the main city square, surrounded by important buildings such as the Town Hall (Palazzo del Comune).

A special experience is offered by the monumental Priamar Fortress from the 16th century, which used to defend the city and today provides panoramic views of the sea and hosts cultural events. Savona is also proud of the Renaissance Della Rovere Palace, associated with the powerful family of the same name, as well as the Church of San Francesco, known for its simple yet dignified architecture. History and art enthusiasts should definitely visit the Salvatori Museum, which offers insight into the city’s development through art collections, archaeological finds, and historical artifacts.

Even a short stay in Savona offers the opportunity to explore its rich historical and cultural heritage. The city is a perfect place to walk through history and enjoy the local atmosphere, providing you with an unforgettable experience.