Top Ten Exotic Ports of Call

Akureyri, Iceland

Akureyri, Iceland, a sheltered harbor 62 miles from the Arctic Circle, boasts the world’s northernmost 18-hole golf course. In addition, its ski slopes, botanical gardens and museums are a must experience in this charming small town.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia’s cobblestone streets wind through the enchanting medieval walled city. A great spot for a casual stroll, these walls also make for some tremendous views of the Adriatic and the old town center.

St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg evokes the essence of Imperial Russia with its splendid palaces and onion-domed churches. Considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, this tourist favorite hosts about 100 cultural and art festivals every year.

Alexandria, Egypt

Alexandria, Egypt, founded by Alexander the Great, was a thriving intellectual community in ancient times. Known as “The Pearl of the Mediterranean”, this capital of Graeco-Roman Egypt was the setting for the stormy relationship between Cleopatra and Mark Anthony.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai, the commercial center of the United Arab Emirates, is a desert oasis filled with over-the-top hotels and trendy shopping malls. The low taxes on imports are a major reason shopping is a popular pastime in Dubai. You can browse through a variety of jewelry, ethnic carpets and more!

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, gateway to South Africa’s picturesque wine country, is celebrated for its scenic beauty.  No trip to South Africa would be complete without a visit to the rolling vineyards of the Cape, not to mention tasting the very best in local wines.

Cairns, Australia

Cairns, located in tropical northeast Australia, is the jumping off point to adventure. Catamaran or snorkel to the stunning Great Barrier Reef or venture deep into the fabulous Kuranda rainforest.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is home to many of Brazil’s dramatic natural landmarks including Sugar Loaf Mountain, currently in the running to be one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. Rio is also noted for its urban beaches like Copacabana, otherwise known as the the most famous beach in the world.

Shanghai, China

Shanghai, China is a booming modern metropolis which houses exotic, old-world temples sheltering ornate gilded figures of Buddha. One such temple is the Yu Fo Si, or Jade Buddha Temple, initially built in 1882 but was destroyed in a fire and rebuilt in 1918.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is a fascinating collage of French colonial architecture, pocket-sized parks and bustling street markets. Be sure to check out the Old Quarter, a 36-street shopping paradise with over 1,000 years of history.