Mediterranean Moments

Wake up in the most beautiful city on the Croatian coast. Lively yet full of history, this World Heritage Site is full of fasination but very easy to get around Woalking around Dubrovnik is like stepping back into the past. Its ancient city walls surround countless buildings that have been perfectly perserved and are easy to find, thanks to the grid-like street system. Look out in particular for the Onofrio Fountain and the nearby Franciscan Monastery with the third oldest pharmacy in Europe. And don't miss the old medieval Sponza Palance, St Blaises Church and the Cathedral.

As the ship cruises into Valletta, a breathtaking landscape of soaring steeples and church domes will rise up to greet you. Surrounded by tiny villages and a countryside brimming with flowers, Valletta is Malta's quintessential capital. Wander the steep, narrow streets laden with sublime churches, or enjoy a freshly-ground coffee at one of the many pavement cafes, whilst admiring the colourful fishing boats as they sway gently in the alluring harbour. Nearby Mdina, the old capital of Malta, is an impressive walled city finely decorated with Medieval and Baroque architecture. Known as ‘the silent city' because cars are forbidden, horse-drawn carriages trotting through the streets and the gentle chatter of Mdina's inhabitants will be the only sounds to punctuate the peaceful atmosphere.

From mosaics and ruins to souks and sights, La Goulette provides a fascinating insight into the Tunisian way of life. Reaching the tip of Africa gives you the chance to explore some of the delights of exotic Tunisia. Dominating the fine avenues and lush foliage of La Goulette is the Great Mosque while in the suburbs lie the ruins of the once powerful ancient city of Carthage. Originally founded in 814BC by the Phoenicians, Carthage rose to real pre-eminence under Roman rule and grew to become one of the empire's largest cities, second only in size to Rome itself. Explore the remnants of this once great metropolis - ruins of villas, bathhouses, sanctuaries and theatres offer a fascinating insight into the past. Back in La Goulette, don't forget to haggle for souvenirs in the bustling souk markets where stalls are laden with copperware, rugs and aromatic spices.

Once a haven for art and architecture, Alicante is today a welcoming and fascinating destination with something for everyone. With its 3rd century fortress perching 350 feet above the city and the flotilla of pleasure boats in the harbour, there is no mistaking the beautiful destination of Alicante. There is no excuse for not finding something of interest either because it is brimming with attractions. Sunlovers can flock to the long, golden Playa del Postiguet beach. Those seeking souvenirs will stroll along Rambla de Mendez Nuñez to the lively market. For marvellous panoramic views, visit the Castillo de Santa Barbara. And if you just want to relax, amble around the old quarter, the Baroque town hall, and the 18th century Gravina Palace.

With superb beaches on the shoreline bordering a region of mountains and valleys, Almeria offers the tranquillity of unspoilt Spain. Almeria is one of those rare destinations that whilst welcoming visitors remains peaceful, calm and relaxing. Beyond the port, agriculture is still the main industry and inside the city, there are sights, sounds and experiences to satisfy everyone. The cathedral and town hall, for example, reveal the region's architecture while the Alcazaba Fortress that dominates the city reveals its seafaring past. That, of course, is if you can tear yourself away from relaxing in a tapas bar or stretching out on the long, sandy beaches.

Looking out across the Mediterranean, Malaga overflows with an assortment of architectural treasures and Spain's prized jewel, the Alhambra Palace, is within easy striking distance. Andalucia's second largest city, Malaga, is a bustling port on Spain's sunny Costa del Sol. Standing on a hillside overlooking the city is the 8th-century ‘Alcazaba', an impressive Moorish fortress. Malaga's cathedral is affectionately known as ‘La Manquita', meaning ‘the onearmed one' owing to its half-built tower, abandoned in the 1700s due to insufficient funds. During the Arab occupation of Spain, Malaga was the principle port of the Moorish kingdom of Granada. A short drive inland takes you to the heart of this wonderful city and its celebrated centrepiece, the breathtaking Alhambra Palace