Tokyo to New York, NY

A city where you’ll find centuries-old culture jostling for position next to cutting-edge technology – a fabulous blend of history and modernity that has to be seen to be believed.

Japan’s third-biggest city has thrown off its shackles and stepped out of the shadows to light up the sky with glaring neon signs and a larger than life outlook. Giant octopuses cling to buildings and bustling restaurants pack in the crowds in this great and garish place, which is Japan at its most friendly, extroverted and flavourful. So dive in headfirst to experience an all-out sensory assault of delicious food, shopping cathedrals and glittering temples. View less Dotombori Bridge bathes in the multicoloured, jewel-like lights of signage-plastered buildings, and the neon lights dance on the canal's waters below. Osaka is known as the nation's kitchen, and the Kuromon Ichiba Market has served as the city's spot to tuck in for almost 200 years. Full of street food stalls - try pufferfish, savoury Okonomiyaki pancakes, or ginger and onion flavoured octopus, among the endless feast of exotic flavours. Osaka Castle is another of the city’s landmarks, built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. A modern museum now waits inside, where you can learn about the country's history, and why this castle is a symbol of Japanese unity. Be sure to take the elevator up to the observation deck for a panoramic view of Osaka's spread. A colourful park encloses the castle and blooms with an ocean of pale pink cherry blossom during the season - the elegant black tiers rising from the pink haze below is one of Osaka's most alluring visions. Kyoto’s peaceful cultural treasures and temples are also just a short jaunt away on Japan’s sleek trains, should you wish to explore further afield.

History buffs will want to write home Hiroshima. Despite being devastated in 1945, this Japanese city is known to all for its commitment peace – its ruin on the 6th August 1945 led to the end of the war and today, the Peace Memorial (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) , is a constant reminder of the destruction that war brings. A walk in the leafy boulevards of Peace Memorial Park brings quiet contemplation. View less The Flames of Peace – set in the park’s central feature pond – burn brightly and will continue to do so until all the nuclear bombs I the world have been destroyed. There are many other inspiring messages of hope around the city too; the Children’s’ Peace Monument just north of the park is a homage to little Sadako Sasaki, who was just two in 1945. When she developed leukemia in 1956, she believed that if she folded 1,000 paper cranes – a symbol of longevity and happiness in Japan – she would recover. Sadly she died before she finished her task but her classmates finished the rest. If you are lucky enough to visit during the unpredictable and short-lived Sakura (cherry blossom) season, then the extraordinary sight of the delicate pink blossom floating across the water to the red gate, means you can consider yourself one of the luckiest people on the planet.

The lantern-lit hot springs of Beppu, known for its eight scorching “Hells”, is a town that’s prettier than a picture. The town is found in a particularly volcanically active part of Japan (hence the abundance of hot springs, or in Japanese, onsens). The viewing pools have evocative names; think Sea Hell, Blood Pond Hell and Tornado Hell. While the names might seem a little off putting, the reality is stunning; sulphur laced air and vast spectrums of blues and reds, depending on the mineralisation of the earth. As if the gorgeous palette of colours at the onsen was not enough, Beppu is also world famous for its Sakura, or cherry blossom season. More than 2,000 cherry trees near the base of the ropeway to Mount Tsurumi make for one of Beppu’s most impressive hanami (flower viewing) spots. If not lucky enough to be in the area during Sakura, from May to June rhododendrons colour the mountain. The view from this 1,375m mountain is beyond impressive, allowing you to see all the way to the Kuju Mountains, Chugoku and Shikoku. If brave enough to climb all the way to the top, the stone Buddhas that were carved into the mountainside during the Heian Period (794-1185) are a worthy reward! As with much of Japan, duality is ever present. Modernity sits very comfortably by ancient buildings. While Beppu’s biggest pull is by far the hot springs and the thermal baths, nearby (10 km) Yufuin has a wealth of art museums, cafes and boutiques, catering to trend setters and urbanites alike.

Hugging the shore of Kinko Bay, this southernmost city of Kyushu is warm, sunny and relaxed. It features palms, flowering trees and bushes, and broad avenues. With the ominous volcano of Sakurajima overlooking Kagoshima across the bay, the city is often called the Naples of Japan. Kagoshima's history was dominated by a single family, the Shimazu clan, who ruled over the city for nearly 700 years. As an important trading center for China, outside contact played a significant part in this port city. The arrival of St. Francis Xavier in 1549 brought further outside influence, and a number of Japanese converted to Christianity. In the mid-19th century, the Tokugawa shogunate began to lose strength, and the Shimazu family was beginning to look toward the future. They built the first Western-style factory and smuggled 19 young men out of the country so they could learn foreign languages and technology in Britain. On their return, these men played an important part in the Meiji Restoration and the modernization of Japan. An important local figure during the Meiji Restoration was a samurai by the name of Saigo Takamori. He was an educator, scholar, philosopher, and poet, and played a major role in the restoration of the Emperor Meiji and the advancement of technology. When the ancient rights of the samurai class were rescinded, Takamori became disillusioned. He led a brief and unsuccessful rebellion, and eventually committed ritual suicide. To this day, he is remembered by many Japanese who visit the spot on Shiroyama Hill where he died.

Once known to the West as Amoy, Xiamen is a small offshore island now linked to the mainland by a causeway. The town dates from the Ming dynasty, and has been of significance in coastal trade ever since. A thriving port in the 17th century, it was influenced by a steady stream of Portuguese, Spanish and Dutch fortune hunters. When invading Manchu armies poured down from the north to drive out the Ming, Xiamen became a center of resistance, led by the pirate and self styled Prince Koxinga. A couple hundred years later the British arrived, increasing trade and establishing themselves on the nearby island of Gulangyu. Their dominance was formalized with the Treaty of Nanjing in 1842. Prosperity was maintained until the Japanese invasion at the beginning of WWII.

From the exceptional views across its famous harbour to the sizzling dishes in its glamorous restaurants, you’re sure to fall in love with Hong Kong.

Take in Halong Bay’s splendid scenery as you wind your way through a dramatic archipelago of lake-filled, tropical forest-topped limestone karsts.

Experience the rich imperial past, stoic resilience, and blissful beaches of central Vietnam, as you delve deep into this fascinating country’s past and present. The sheer beauty and vitality of the scenery will amaze you, as you explore the stories this now tranquil land has to tell - all the while surrounded by rolling rice paddies, freely grazing water buffalo and soaring limestone scenery. Cut in half by the evocatively named Perfume River, and home to a spectacular sprawling citadel, Hue is a true experience for the senses. Vietnam's timeless beauty outshines the shadows of its past, but Hue still bears the heavy scars of war - whether it's from American bombs, or harrowing events like those of Hue Jungle Crevice - where the Viet Cong pushed 3,000 civilians to their deaths. Hue’s Old City was once the jewel of Vietnam, standing proudly as its Imperial Capital. Lotus flowers now twirl peacefully in the grand moat around its mighty walls, which encase a spectacular array of charred palaces, temples and regal residences. Danang’s Marble Mountains rise dramatically close by, and they are scattered with Buddhist shrines and plunging caves. While there is an endless treasure trove of rich cultural experiences waiting here, it’s hard to resist the call of Danang's idyllic beaches, where white sand gives way to a fringe of palm trees. The undulating humps of the city's Dragon Bridge soar across the wide River Han, and this ambitious structure comes alive at night, when strobing light shows illuminate its flowing form, and the bridge’s dragon head rasps fire into the dusk.

Halfway between Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An, Da Nang often gets overlooked on the traveller trail. However, as the third largest city in Vietnam (with a population of 1 million), Da Nang packs a punch that other puts other Vietnamese cities in the shade. Naturally, Da Nang is a savvy choice. The beaches are simply stunning - white sand that runs on for miles, lapped by sapphire seas and punctuated by tall coconut trees. The mountains are stunning – vast swathes of emerald green poking out of the top of the few skyscrapers the city has. And the temples are vast and plentiful. From Lady Buddha – an 18th century shrine and statue that guards over the fishermen – to the Marble Mountains, Da Nang is a sublime mixture of secret lagoons, spiritual sites and Vietnamese energy. The aforementioned Marble Mountains are undeniably the city’s main attraction, although the Golden Hands Bridge (40 kilometres from the city centre) is fast overtaking the Mountains for top spot. Both are sublime in their beauty – one a spiritual pilgrimage site sculpted by (and named after) the elements, the other, a man-made structure of two giant concrete hands that stretch towards the sky. Add to that the busy markets selling everything from Vietnamese silk to street food and the My Son temple ruins (Vietnam’s answer to Angkor Wat) and you have a destination that offers travellers far more than tourist trinkets. If you are looking for a Vietnamese city that offers both connection and authenticity, you have found it in Da Nang.

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

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

Thailand's only island province is connected to the mainland by the Thep Krasettree Causeway. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," Phuket offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that rise above the turquoise waters of Phang Nga Bay. With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is Thailand's largest island and about the same size as Singapore. Arab and Indian navigators have called here since the end of the 9th century, while the first Europeans arrived in the 16th century.

Built on a truly majestic natural harbour - one of the world’s largest - Trincomalee is a gateway to the deep historical interests of Sri Lanka. Richly cultural and historic, Trincomalee is surrounded by treasured sites, which hark back thousands of years - and hold unprecedented cultural value. Set on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka - on the peninsula that it shares its name with - venture inland to explore some of the world's most majestic and evocative archaeological and holy sites. View less Or, take it easy and lay back on Trincomalee's plentiful, palm-lined beaches. Boat tours can take you out to cruise among dolphins and whales, or to the reefs of Pigeon Island. A swirl of colonial houses, temples and mosques line the multi-cultural streets of this fascinating destination. Live like a local and start the day with a steaming cup of Ceylon tea and buffalo curd for breakfast before heading out to visit extraordinary sites of ancient worship, as you explore Sri Lanka's incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Head inland to the jaw-dropping Golden Temple of Dambulla, a vast temple, dominated by a gleaming gold Buddha figure. The amazing Ancient City of Polonnaruwa dates back to the 12th century and is an unearthed treasure trove of ruins - famous for its meticulously thought out urban planning. Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka, and you can visit the first capital at the Sacred City of Anuradhapura – a place of immense value to the Buddhist faith. The Sirigiya Rock Fortress is a jaw-dropping collaboration between man and nature, and the incredible fortress sits perched above an almighty 200-metre high slab of rock.

Far to the south of Sri Lanka is the city of Hambantota with a colorful and storied traditional Ruhuna past and great promise for the future. This gateway to Sri Lanka is rich in resources and since being upset by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, has put great emphasis on rebuilding and moving progressively into a central role in the development of the southern region of Sri Lanka. Traditionally an agricultural area, the region is also known for having some of the country’s most skilled jewelers and crafts people.

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.

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.

The most cosmopolitan city in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah (Jiddah) is the “gem” of the Red Sea, and second in size only to the capital city of Riyadh. Located mid-way along the coast of the Kingdom, Jeddah it is the busiest of all the Kingdom's ports. In addition to being the country's principle port, Jeddah is the main point of entry into Saudi Arabia for the hundreds of thousands of Muslim pilgrims on their way to the Holy Cities of Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah. Saudi Arabia is known as the birthplace of Muhammed and contains the holiest cities of Islam. Jeddah is, surprisingly, named in honor of the biblical Eve. “Jadda” means “grandmother” in the context of Eve, who according to legend is buried near the historical old city. The Old City of Jeddah, known as Al-Balad, with its serpentine alleys, is marked with the centuries old multi-storied buildings. The lower portions of the walls tend to be made from cut stone bricks, while the upper sections are constructed from mud bricks with latticed wooden poles. The heart of Old Jeddah is its markets. In its centre is the 700 year old flag mast and 15th century cannon, which dominate the King Abdul Aziz Historical Square.

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

Luxor, often referred to as the "world's greatest open-air museum," is an Egyptian treasure trove of ancient wonders and rich history.

Al-'Ain al-Sokhna is a town in the Suez Governorate, lying on the western shore of the Red Sea's Gulf of Suez. It is situated 55 kilometres south of Suez and approximately 120 kilometres east of Cairo.

Ashdod is one of Israel's largest ports, and, like every other square inch of this remarkable nation, a living museum of ancient history. Freighters stream in and out of the harbor close to the spot where the whale disgorged Jonah, and the city hums with giant cranes and cargo ships and the relentless energy of a strategic Mediterranean port. It was one of the five cities of giants, and it was here that the Philistines brought the captured Holy Ark, sacred to the Hebrews. Ashdod's 23-level tel (archaeological dig) lies southeast of the modern city. Among the remains of the 10th century CE Fatimid Fortress, archaeologists discovered an early Arabic document recounting that Byzantine ships once brought Muslim prisoners to Ashdod to sell back to their families.

At less than 45 kilometres from Nazareth, Haifa is often neglected when it comes to travel experiences. And understandably so, as Nazareth is definitely the superstar of the region. The pilgrimage site is certainly a must for all believers of all denominations, and the chance of seeing where Jesus spent his childhood is too good an opportunity to pass up for some. If, however you go expecting to find a bucolic utopia then think again. View less Nazareth today is bustling modern hub of a mega metropolis, which has grown up around the crumbling walls of the Old City. Nazareth Old City is stunning, and the historic sites where Jesus is believed to have lived and preached prior to his death are certainly bucket list. These include the Basilica of the Annunciation, where the Angel Gabriel visited Mary to inform her of her virgin birth, the Church of Joseph, the ancient site of Joseph’s carpentry shop and Cana (located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee), where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine. But that is not to say that Haifa itself is not worth a visit. The city – the third largest in Israel after Tel Aviv and Jerusalem – is a mosaic of cultures and faiths, with Jews, Christians, Muslims and Baháʼís all living peacefully side by side. The Baháʼí Gardens, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, are without a doubt the city’s main attraction. Set on the flanks of Mont Carmel and sloping into the Mediterranean Sea, both the gardens and the city offer stunning views.

Rhodes, the radiant jewel of the Aegean Sea, beckons travellers with its compelling blend of history, culture and natural beauty.

Kuşadasi, a vibrant coastal gem on Turkey's Aegean shores, beckons travellers with its sun-soaked beaches, ancient treasures and welcoming Turkish hospitality.

Istanbul, the enchanting metropolis straddling two continents, is a city where history and modernity converge in a seamless fusion.

Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, is a captivating blend of history, culture and modernity.

Nestled on the eastern coast of mainland Greece, Volos is a vibrant coastal city that marries tradition with modernity.

Nafplion, a picturesque jewel nestled along the Peloponnese coastline, beckons travellers with its timeless charm and rich history.

Nestled on the southeastern coast of Sicily, Siracusa is an ancient jewel steeped in history and myth.

Naples, a vibrant city in southern Italy, is a captivating blend of history, culture and Mediterranean charm.

Málaga, a sun-drenched jewel on Spain's Costa del Sol, beckons with a vibrant blend of history, culture and coastal allure.

Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of southwestern Spain, Cádiz beckons as a timeless gem steeped in history and Mediterranean charm.

Lisbon, Portugal's radiant capital, enchants with its timeless allure and vibrant spirit.

Nestled in the heart of Spain's lush Basque Country, Bilbao emerges as a dynamic urban jewel.

Flowing for 329 miles through France and Spain, you can expect to find quaint countryside and charming villages along the Garonne River.

Ship sails flutter in the breeze, at the natural port of Saint-Malo - a historic and resilient walled city, which watches out over golden sands and island fortresses. Strung tenuously to the mainland, Saint Malo was the historic home of a rowdy mix of skilled sailors and new world explorers - as well as the plunderers who earned the place its 'Pirate City' title. Some of history's great voyages have launched from here - including Jacques Cartier's, which led to the settlement of New France and modern-day Quebec. View less Founded by a Welsh monk, who made his way here in the 6th century, Saint Malo's castle is forged from sheer granite, and its steep defensive ramparts arise defiantly. The atmospheric walled town turns its back to the mainland and gazes out longingly into the sea. Explore streets that breathe with maritime tales and medieval charm - restored from the intense damage sustained during the Second World War. Cathédrale de St Malo rises above the tight paths, offering views of the peppered islands and fortifications. Boatloads of fresh oysters and scallops are heaved ashore - savour them or grab savoury crepes galettes, stuffed with cheese and ham. Wash Saint Malo's foods down with a Brittany cider, which challenges wine as the indulgence of choice in these parts. A highly tidal region, the pocket-sized islands of Petit Bé and Grand Bé join the mainland, and you can explore at leisure as the tide recedes. The incredible island of Mont Saint Michel also looms in the estuary of the Couesnon River nearby, hovering like a cinematic mirage above high tide’s waters. Elsewhere, Cap Fréhel's lush green peninsula juts out from the emerald coast towards Jersey, tempting with rich coastal hiking trails.

Twenty-five square mile (40 sq km) Guernsey is the second largest of the Channel Islands, which lie in the English Channel west of the Cherbourg peninsula. Along with its sister island of Jersey, Guernsey has been a part of Britain since 1066, though retaining a culture entirely of its own.

Choose from a wide selection of cruise lines and set sail on your dream holiday with our handpicked range of cruises from Southampton.

Nestled along the meandering Seine River in northern France, Rouen emerges as a city where history, art and culture converge in a captivating symphony.

Amsterdam, the enchanting capital of the Netherlands, is a city of idyllic canals, historic brick buildings and a rich artistic heritage.

Home to one of the biggest ports in Europe, Hamburg leaves visitors spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do and see.

Copenhagen, Denmark's charismatic capital, is a harmonious blend of contemporary design and historical charm.

Helsinki, Finland's vibrant seaside capital, is a city of intriguing contrasts. Modern architectural elegance intermingles with historical richness, evident in its neoclassical buildings and contemporary designs.

From fascinating Baroque architecture to awe-inspiring glass skyscrapers, Estonia is a charming Baltic gem that really gets under the skin of all who visit.

Stockholm, the venerable Nordic jewel, unfolds across an archipelago of islands seamlessly interwoven by bridges and brimming with history.

Nestled at the head of the Oslofjord, Norway's capital, Oslo, melds contemporary vibrancy with rich heritage.

On the west coast of Norway, amidst rolling mountains and striking fjords, sits vibrant Bergen.

Torshavn, the quaint capital of the Faroe Islands, is a hidden Nordic gem perched at the edge of the North Atlantic.

Nestled at the head of Iceland's longest fjord, Akureyri is a charming gateway to the natural wonders of the north.

Ísafjörður, the heart of the Westfjords in Iceland, is a gem hidden by towering mountains and enchanting fjords.

Reykjavík, the world's northernmost capital, offers a striking blend of icy landscapes and fiery volcanic activity.

Sail past majestic whales and between immense icebergs as you cruise the serene waters that surround Greenland.

Nestled along Greenland's rugged west coast, Nuuk stands as a vibrant Arctic capital, offering a captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern innovation.

Colourful, white-trimmed buildings splash a haze of bright-beauty across the spectacular Newfoundland coastline of St John’s. Picturesque, steep streets roll down to the seafront, and the charming architecture contrasts beautifully against the wild and rugged shoreline, with redolent pine forests spreading out behind. The province's capital, St John’s, is a lively outpost - and one of North America’s oldest and most historically engaging places. View less A rich trading history of haggling and hawking has played out on these animated, historic streets – especially Water Street, which is one of North America’s oldest. St John’s boasts incredible history, as the launch point for daring transatlantic voyages and a leap of human ingenuity is celebrated on Signal Hill. It was here where the first transatlantic transmission was received in 1901. Rise up to receive stunning views of the Atlantic, and the city spreading around the harbour from the fortified Cabot Tower. Rugged hiking trails and puffin-nesting cliffs add extra character to this remarkable island. The twin bell towers of the Basilica of St John the Baptist are a St John’s landmark and a National Historic Site dedicated to the city’s namesake saint. The Quidi Vidi fishing village is an arresting stop, inhabited by busy artisans and local craft brewers - who produce characterful beers befitting this exuberant city of bold colours. George Street is the perfect spot to try a glass or two – the street is said to have the most bars per person of anywhere in Canada.

Perched along the rugged shores of Nova Scotia, Halifax exudes an irresistible maritime charm that beckons travellers from near and far.

Boston, steeped in rich history and pulsing with modern energy, stands as a beacon of American culture on the eastern seaboard.

New York, the city that never sleeps, pulsates with an energy and vibrancy unmatched anywhere else in the world.