Grand Spice Route Quest - Auckland to Athens

Stretched over a volcanic field on New Zealand’s North Island is the country’s largest city, multicultural Auckland.

The "Bay of Islands" was how Captain Cook described this area two centuries ago and the simplicity of his name masks the diversity of its charms. The Bay of Islands is the finest Maritime Park in the country with 144 islands, secluded bays and abundance of marine life. It is one of the most popular fishing, sailing and tourist destinations in the country, and has been renowned internationally for its big-game fishing since author Zane Grey publicized it in the 1930s.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

From the Sydney Opera House to Bondi Beach, man and Mother Nature contribute in equal measure to this splendid city.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Cosmopolitan Brisbane attracts millions of visitors each year thanks to its eclectic mix of attractions, beautiful skyline and climate.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Head out to the Great Barrier Reef to dive or snorkel, or discover the local beaches and enjoy the tropical scenery, the seafront promenade, galleries and shops. Venture out to stunning Magnetic Island with its national park, miles of walking trails, wildlife and magnificent coral reefs. Take home local artwork, crafts, jewelry and souvenirs. Savor fresh seafood along with a wide variety of international cuisines, perhaps a cold beer or a glass of fine wine.

A friendly city loved by residents and popular with tourists. More than just a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers plenty to do.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Along the coast of the Northern Territory lies Darwin, a city isolated by the vast Australian desert. The area was sought by the French, Dutch and British, and was established as the town of Darwin in 1869. In 1942, the city was under the threat of a Japanese attack, so a major Australian military base was established. Today Darwin is the largest city of the Northern Territory, offering sights from its colonial past and excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

One of 17,000 islands in Indonesia, Komodo Island is famous for its bright blue waters, steep sloping hills, and the four thousand giant lizards who call the island home.

Beautiful Bali is everything you imagine it will be; humbling temples, tranquil lakes, traditional villages, idyllic sands and thriving paddy fields.

Bali is an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches and coral reefs. The island is home to religious sites such as cliffside Uluwatu Temple. To the south, the beachside city of Kuta has lively bars, while Seminyak, Sanur and Nusa Dua are popular resort towns. The island is also known for its yoga and meditation retreats

Surabaya is the gateway to a world of wonders, from Buddhist temples to Arab quarters. You will notice the vast differences in architecture as you move around the various neighborhoods. In particular, tour the Sampoerna Museum, a well-preserved historical site built in the 19th-century Dutch colonial-style. Also, visit the Grand Mosque of Surabaya and witness the tall minaret, with exquisite bright blue and green mosaic titles on the top of the pyramid-looking roof and dome. It’s a 21st-century masterpiece showcasing stylish religious structural design and layout. There’s plenty to do in the city center of Surabaya, whether you’re a history buff, a relentless shopper or an intrepid foodie.

Semarang is a city on the north coast of the island of Java, Indonesia. A major port during the Dutch colonial era, the city is known in Indonesia for its large ethnically Chinese population. Today, Semarang is a commercial port and administrative capital of Central Java. More a business center than a city for tourists, it is, however, an excellent gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java and only some 60 miles away from world-famous Borobudur.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Diamond-shaped Pulau Ujong is Singapore's main island and it's bursting with colour, energy and culture.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

The 3,000-mile Mekong River runs throughout Asia and affords an experience of the continent like no other.

Nha Trang, on the south-central coast of Vietnam, supports a population of 300,000 or so but retains a welcoming small-town ambience. A resort town, it is flanked by nearly 10 kilometres of glorious shore, lapped by seas that are pleasantly tepid year-round.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

The 3,000-mile Mekong River runs throughout Asia and affords an experience of the continent like no other.

A busy, cramped and frenetic city, Bangkok has a reputation of bombarding your senses. Centuries of history collide with a fast-paced modern lifestyle.

Koh Samui is Thailand's third largest island. Surrounded by eighty smaller islands, this stunning, natural beauty has been relatively undiscovered until recent years. Rumor claims that in 1971 the first tourists to set foot on Koh Samui were hippies who arrived by way of a coconut boat from Bangkok. While Koh Samui still exports up to 2 million coconuts to Bangkok every month, recent urban developments include a no-frills airport and an ostentatious Reggae bar.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Diamond-shaped Pulau Ujong is Singapore's main island and it's bursting with colour, energy and culture.

In the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, head straight for the city where historic temples unite with fashionable skyscrapers and lush parks.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, Penang is a must-visit jewel in the Malaysian crown. Popular with tourists for generations and valued by lovers of both food and culture.

With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is about the same size as Singapore, making it Thailand's largest island. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," this beautiful retreat offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages, and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that tower over the turquoise waters of Phang-Nga Bay. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 16th century.

Sabang is city consisting of an interesting mix of fishing villages and colonial villas across six islands. Adventurous travelers enjoy hiking through the volcanic mountains, while those seeking rest and relaxation will find their place on the pristine beaches, virtually untouched by tourism. Be sure to visit a traditional Acehnese coffee shop and savor the locally grown coffee served along with traditional cakes. Enjoy a fresh fish lunch or the diverse variety of noodles prepared by very friendly locals.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Sri Lanka's naturally wonderful landscape has been shaped by Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and European influences for a fascinating multicultural heritage.

Cultural Cochin - ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ - is surrounded by historical towns and considered the regional centre for the arts.

A major port on the Arabian Sea located in Southern India, Mangalore derives its name from a goddess. The city has a rich historical past, part of it even dating back to major epics that are the bedrock of the Hindu mythological pantheon. Mangalore has 11th century temples, scintillating beaches dotted with coconut palm trees, museums and lighthouses. Red-roofed houses against the lush greenery provide a much-needed escape from the ordinary.

A popular beach-side base, this part of southern India offers more than yoga retreats and tie-dye market stalls.

As one of the wealthiest and most populous regions in Asia, Mumbai (known as Bombay until 1995) has been an inspiring tourist hotspot for years – and with its jaw-dropping architecture, culture and food, it’s easy to see why.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Fujairah is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, on the Gulf of Oman. Fujairah is the only Emirate of the U.A.E. that is almost totally mountainous, surrounded by the ruggedly majestic Hajar Mountains. Dana Plaza offers shopping in the souks, while excursions include dune drives, camel safaris and a voyage to the region’s only fjord, Musandam Fjords.

On the Persian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates, this exotic destination boasts world-renowned structures, enviably glamorous resorts and pioneering industry.

Khasab is an eclectic and off-the-beaten-path port with pristine seas and jagged peaks. It’s location at the northern tip of the peninsula makes this city the apex of the triangle between Dubai and Muscat. Choose to take a dhow cruise along the Strait of Hormuz or go on a humpback dolphin watching excursion on the bay, either way your experience will be far from ordinary.

Boasting a sun-drenched setting, an impressive history and breathtakingly beautiful architectural gems, Muscat is sure to capture your imagination.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

The Sultanate of Oman is situated on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula, neighboring Saudi Arabia and Yemen. In 1970, the son of Sultan Said bin Taimur overthrew his father's government and renamed the nation the Sultanate of Oman. During the Persian Gulf War, Oman served as a landing base for the allied forces. Salalah is gateway for visitors to explore the site of "Jebel Qarra," fabled to be the tomb of the biblical Job.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Jeddah, a Saudi Arabian port city on the Red Sea, is a modern commercial hub and gateway for pilgrimages to the Islamic holy cities Mecca and Medina. Resort hotels, beaches and outdoor sculptures line the Corniche, a seafront promenade anchored by the iconic King Fahd’s Fountain. The city’s Al-Balad historic district dates to the 7th century and retains traditional homes built from coral.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Known as the father of African rivers, the Nile River flows for 4,132 miles through 10 countries, including Egypt.

This history-rich Jordanian city boasts impressive scuba diving and water sport options, plus nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

A remarkable destination in and of itself and a UNESCO World Heritage town, Tel Aviv has ancient roots and modern skyscrapers, with diverse offerings from shopping for local crafts at the Nachlat Binyamin Pedestrian Mall to admiring the original Bauhaus architecture along Rothschild Boulevard, savoring the local cuisine at cafes to delving into history at one of the countless museums. Tel Aviv is also a starting point for day trips to iconic historical sites as Jerusalem’s Old City, Bethlehem, Massada and Jaffa, one of the oldest cities in the world.

Sea days are the perfect time to relax and enjoy watching the world go by in the Observation Lounge. Head to Serene Spa & Wellness for some well-deserved pampering, why not unwind with a massage? Shop in the Boutiques and treat yourself to an exclusive fragrance. In the evening Compass Rose exudes elegance with its continental cuisine.

On Turkey's western Aegean coast is Kuşadasi, a beach town named after the nearby Güvercinada Island, which resembles a bird's head.

Magnificent Athens combines the fascinations of the ancient world with unique modern architecture.