Corsica is not that big, measuring only 133 miles long and fifty miles wide. But the sheer diversity of both the terrain and the people make it seem much larger than it is. The Greeks called it Kalliste, or the most beautiful, but it was its advantageous geographical location that made republics battle over the small island. Located just one hundred miles south of France and fifty miles west of Italy, Corsica has seen its share of rulers over the years.

Some experienced cruise travelers rate Barcelona among the world's most beautiful port cities. The tree-lined walkways, cafes and flower stalls of La Rambla, the mile-long focal point of the city's shopping and nightlife, could alone earn this Spanish port city that distinction.

Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, is home to 550,000 residents and is a marvelous city for visiting and sightseeing. The weather in Málaga is fantastic, and the wide array of activities and interesting features will have you begging for more. No stay is too long in Málaga, and the diversity of the city is magnificent. The port area is comprised of ancient streets and gorgeous foliage, and at the center of the city is a mass of high-rises and government buildings.

Marseille is France's second largest city, but it often goes unnoticed and unvisited by travelers who choose to spend their time in France either in Paris or along the sunny beaches of St. Tropez, Cannes, and Nice. They are missing out on one of France's most diverse cities, both in terms of people and activities. Marseille has a fascinating history. Founded by the Phoenicians in the sixth century BC, Marseille has long been one of the more important port cities in the world. During the Middle Ages, the city was a focal point of the Crusades, as access to Marseille's port was an important stop on the way to the Holy Land. During the reign of the French monarchy, its strategic importance was reemphasized as a military stronghold. Even today, Marseille's port is the second busiest in all of Europe, trailing only Rotterdam.

Palma De Mallorca is located on Majorca, in the Balearic Islands, just miles away from Ibiza. It is 130 miles from Barcelona and its coastline is 310 miles long, making it the longest island in the Balearic archipelago. You will be amazed that this single island could be home to so many great sights and wonders. While Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville get all the headlines, Palma De Mallorca sits quietly and contently off the coast of Spain.