8 Nights Europe

Floating off the west coast of Africa, Gran Canaria is an island where natures many faces come together. A rocky coastline embraces most of the island, while beaches dot the periphery. Desert-style dunes adorn the south, and leafy mountains crown the center. Outdoor lovers will find spectacular views while they surf, hike, bike or go on a road trip with Canary Islands cruises

The most easterly of the seven major Canary Islands is of volcanic origin, and its ash- and lava-laden landscape is likened to the moon's. Vast wine valleys sandwiched between more than 100 volcanic craters eventually give way to fine white sand beaches.

The "Miami of Morocco" is the ancient Portuguese port of Santa Cruz du Cap de Gué, a fortress that was conquered in 1541. Totally destroyed by the earthquake of February 1960, it has been reborn and is now a renowned beach resort with a superb bay and golden beaches.

A far cry from the sleepy dive town immortalized in the movie of the same name, Casablanca is a busting, brassy city and one of Africa's largest ports. Portuguese, Arab, Spanish and French influences give the city an allure unlike any other in the world.

The Rock of Gibraltar towers above the surrounding countryside on a narrow peninsula linked to the end of the Iberian Peninsula by a narrow sandy isthmus. Gibraltar offers a wide array of native plant life as well as dolphins in the Bay of Gibraltar and other marine mammals which include the Pilot Whales of the Strait, Killer Whales and even larger species such as Sperm Whales. Gibraltar also has its own unique bird: the Barbary Partridge. Not to be missed is the spectacular migration of several thousand birds in a single day (15 different species), including birds of prey, storks, vultures, songbirds and seabirds. Take the "Official Rock Tour" to enjoy the rich natural history. Other attractions are the Stakis Casino, the landmark sites along the city gates and Walls of Gibraltar built by the Moors, and the village of Catalan Bay.

As the capital of Spain's Andalusia region, the energetic city of Seville stands tall at the banks of the Guadalquivir River. And like its rich flamenco legacy, this well-preserved city performs an elaborate dance between Moorish history and youth-infused street culture. A jovial spirit and intoxicating personality flow freely throughout its narrow streets, from Old Town's palaces to the tapas bars of Santa Cruz. Admire the lavish stylings of Plaza de España from a painted ceramic bench, or stroll through Maria Luisa Park's serene greenery. Stand in Spain's oldest bullring at the Bullfighting Museum? or breathe in citywide views from the top of Torre del Oro.

As the capital of Spain's Andalusia region, the energetic city of Seville stands tall at the banks of the Guadalquivir River. And like its rich flamenco legacy, this well-preserved city performs an elaborate dance between Moorish history and youth-infused street culture. A jovial spirit and intoxicating personality flow freely throughout its narrow streets, from Old Town's palaces to the tapas bars of Santa Cruz. Admire the lavish stylings of Plaza de España from a painted ceramic bench, or stroll through Maria Luisa Park's serene greenery. Stand in Spain's oldest bullring at the Bullfighting Museum? or breathe in citywide views from the top of Torre del Oro.

As the capital of Spain's Andalusia region, the energetic city of Seville stands tall at the banks of the Guadalquivir River. And like its rich flamenco legacy, this well-preserved city performs an elaborate dance between Moorish history and youth-infused street culture. A jovial spirit and intoxicating personality flow freely throughout its narrow streets, from Old Town's palaces to the tapas bars of Santa Cruz. Admire the lavish stylings of Plaza de España from a painted ceramic bench, or stroll through Maria Luisa Park's serene greenery. Stand in Spain's oldest bullring at the Bullfighting Museum? or breathe in citywide views from the top of Torre del Oro.

The small capital of Portugal is older than Rome - older, in fact, than any other western European capital. Pastel-colour houses line tiny, stepped alleys in old parts of town, while wide boulevards and mosaic cobblestone sidewalks highlight its grand 18th-century centre. The Alfama, an old Moorish quarter, retains its intricate, Arab-influenced layout.