28-Day British Isles & Iberian Peninsula: Waterford

An essential passageway between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Panama Canal is an extraordinary technological landmark and a testament to human innovation. Built in the early twentieth century by American engineers, the canal weaves through the Panamanian isthmus and allows easy access for commercial freighters and cruise ships alike. This stretch of Central America, with lush rain forests and glittering water, makes for an enjoyable cruise.

Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is a city steeped in rich history and brimming with cultural charm. Known for its role in the Industrial Revolution, it was once a major shipbuilding hub, most famously the birthplace of the RMS Titanic. Today, visitors can explore the Titanic Quarter, where the Titanic Belfast museum stands as a modern architectural marvel, offering a fascinating and interactive journey through the ship's history. The city’s maritime heritage is also reflected in attractions like the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship, which once ferried passengers to the Titanic.

The cultural scene in Belfast is equally captivating, with a rich tapestry of music, art, and festivals. The city has been designated a UNESCO City of Music, reflecting its vibrant music scene that ranges from traditional Irish sessions in cozy pubs to contemporary performances at venues like the SSE Arena. Art enthusiasts can visit the MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre) to experience cutting-edge exhibitions and performances, while the annual Belfast International Arts Festival showcases a diverse array of local and international talent.

Greenock, located on the scenic west coast of Scotland, is a town brimming with maritime history and charm. Once a thriving shipbuilding hub, Greenock’s legacy as a key player in global trade is still visible today in its waterfront, where historic buildings meet modern developments. A stroll along the docks invites visitors to imagine a time when ships departed for far-flung corners of the globe, forever linking the town to world-changing adventures.

The town’s fascinating history extends beyond its maritime roots, offering a glimpse into Scotland's industrial past. Greenock’s Victorian-era architecture stands as a testament to its prosperous days, with iconic landmarks like the James Watt Dock and the Old West Kirk showcasing the fine craftsmanship of the period. Walking through the town, visitors can spot plaques and markers that tell the stories of influential figures like James Watt, the visionary engineer whose innovations in steam technology played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.

But Greenock isn’t just about history—it’s also a gateway to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The town is framed by rolling hills, and a visit to the nearby Greenock Cut offers an escape into the Scottish countryside. This 19th-century aqueduct, originally built to supply water to the town’s mills, now serves as a peaceful trail for walking and cycling. With panoramic views of the town and the River Clyde, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Alicante, a captivating coastal city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, enchants visitors with its blend of rich history, Mediterranean charm, and vibrant nightlife. Dominated by the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle perched on Mount Benacantil, the city offers sweeping views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea and the bustling streets below. This 9th-century fortress, one of Spain's largest medieval castles, provides a fascinating glimpse into Alicante’s past, from its Moorish origins to its role in various sieges and battles. Today, the castle is a must-visit site, complete with guided tours, museums, and breathtaking vistas of Alicante’s shimmering coastline and urban sprawl.

The city’s historic quarter, El Barrio, is a maze of narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and charming squares. Here, you can explore Alicante’s cultural treasures, like the Co-Cathedral of St. Nicholas, a stunning example of Spanish Baroque architecture. The area comes alive at night with its vibrant tapas bars, traditional taverns, and lively plazas, offering an authentic taste of Alicante’s nightlife. Visitors can indulge in local delicacies such as "arroz a banda" (a seafood rice dish) and "turrón" (a nougat confection) while soaking in the atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.

Alicante’s beautiful Explanada de España promenade is another highlight, famous for its distinctive wavy mosaic tiles and lined with palm trees. Stretching along the harbor, this vibrant walkway is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, dotted with cafes, artisan stalls, and street performers. Just a stone's throw away is Playa del Postiguet, a sandy beach right in the heart of the city, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. With its warm climate and more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Alicante is a year-round destination that caters to sunseekers and beach lovers alike.

Fun fact: Alicante is renowned for its annual festival, Las Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of Saint John), which takes place in June and marks the arrival of summer. The festival is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and the burning of large satirical effigies made of wood and papier-mâché, creating a spectacular and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Valencia, located on the Balearic coastline of eastern Spain, is a Mediterranean haven replete with stunning art, striking architecture, immersive museums, and inviting beaches.

The heart of Valencia is the perfect place to explore the best that the city has to offer. In the city center, you’ll find a variety of Valencia’s famous landmarks and architectural masterpieces, including La Seu de València (the magnificent Valencia Cathedral), La Lonja de la Seda (the preserved Medieval building which once facilitated the city’s trade), and Las Torres de Quart (Gothic towers used to fortify Valencia’s defenses). Valencia’s three most popular plazas, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Plaza de la Virgen, and Plaza de la Reina, offer direct access to many of these monuments, as well as wonderful shopping and dining opportunities. Be sure to stop at the expansive Mercat Central, decorated in vivid mosaic tiles and brimming with fresh produce and Spanish delicacies.

Valencia’s premier attraction, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, is a massive museum complex built along the lush Jardín del Túria. This testament to the arts and sciences comprises the Oceanogràfic, an enormous aquarium famous for its dolphins, the Museu de les Ciències, an interactive science museum, the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, an opera house, and the Hemisfèric, a 3-D movie theater.

Soak up the sun and gaze at the glittering Balearic Sea along the shores of Valencia at Platja de l’Arbre del Gos, Playa de Pinedo, Playa de las Arenas, or Playa de la Malvarrosa. With a string of restaurants lining the coast, you’ll have ample opportunity to sample delectable paella, fideuà, arròs a banda, and sugary bunyols.

Step foot in Valencia for a uniquely gorgeous Spanish adventure!