Southampton to Montréal

Southampton is the largest city and port on the south coast of England. Tour the historic byways of Old Town with its Medieval walls and Tudor architecture. Spend an hour or two meandering along the pathways of Royal Victoria Country Park, picturesquely set along the waterfront on the grounds of a former military hospital where Florence Nightingale once worked. Southampton's maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here that the Titanic departed on its fateful journey and where the Mayflower sailed for the New World.

Cork's history began in the 7th century with the founding of a monastery by St. Finbarr on a small alluvial island in the River Lee. The monastery and the settlement were later incorporated in the fortified base the Danes developed there. As a result of war and destruction throughout the following centuries, Cork has no medieval buildings left but boasts a few remains from the 18th century. The central area takes its architectural character from the early 19th century.

Belfast lies snuggled into the rugged coast of Northern Ireland where the River Lagan flows to the sea. This Northern Ireland capital saw its earliest settlement in the early Middle Ages. At that time, a substantial stone fortress punctuated the horizon. Today, world travelers are eager to view her physical beauty and discover her renewed tranquility. Residents enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shop at trendy stores, and visit pubs lining The Golden Mile.

St. John's, a city on Newfoundland island off Canada's Atlantic coast, is the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador province. Its harbour was settled by the British in the 1600s. Downtown is known for its colourful row houses. Above the city is Signal Hill with walking trails and the site of the first transatlantic wireless communication, Cabot Tower, which commemorates John Cabot's discovery of Newfoundland.

Prepare to be thoroughly charmed by this great historic city. The only walled metropolis in North America provides a taste of authentic, profoundly French culture. Stroll the cool cobbled streets of Basse-Ville with its outstanding 17th- and 18th-century architecture, graceful parks and delightful sidewalk cafés. Head over to the Rue du Trésor where many local artists display and sell their artwork. Discover Place Royale, a beautifully restored market square and the green-turreted castle of Château Frontenac, Québec’s most celebrated landmark. Stop for spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans and the Laurentian Mountains at Dufferin Terrace.

The diversity and rich cultural heritage of Montréal never ceases to captivate the traveler. Take a horse-drawn carriage through the Vieux-Montréal, the largest collection of historic buildings in North America. Browse the shops and boutiques along the 19-miles of neon-lit corridors of the Underground City. Explore the exquisite works on display at the Musée des Beaux Artes or walk part of the Jardin Botanique, the largest Chinese garden in North America.

Prepare to be thoroughly charmed by this great historic city. The only walled metropolis in North America provides a taste of authentic, profoundly French culture. Stroll the cool cobbled streets of Basse-Ville with its outstanding 17th- and 18th-century architecture, graceful parks and delightful sidewalk cafés. Head over to the Rue du Trésor where many local artists display and sell their artwork. Discover Place Royale, a beautifully restored market square and the green-turreted castle of Château Frontenac, Québec’s most celebrated landmark. Stop for spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans and the Laurentian Mountains at Dufferin Terrace.

The diversity and rich cultural heritage of Montréal never ceases to captivate the traveler. Take a horse-drawn carriage through the Vieux-Montréal, the largest collection of historic buildings in North America. Browse the shops and boutiques along the 19-miles of neon-lit corridors of the Underground City. Explore the exquisite works on display at the Musée des Beaux Artes or walk part of the Jardin Botanique, the largest Chinese garden in North America.