Oceania Epic Northern Hemisphere

The Big Apple. The City That Never Sleeps. Call it what you may, New York reigns as one of the world’s most dynamic cities. But where to begin? The sacred soil of Ground Zero or stunning Central Park? The Guggenheim or the American Museum of Natural History? Should you take in a Broadway show or simply enjoy the nonstop show of people that parade through the streets? The possibilities are endless in the five boroughs of New York City, so get out and enjoy.

Boston’s enormous role during the American Revolution is inescapable, and it’s easy to trace by following the Freedom Trail, which links more than a dozen historic sights throughout town from the Paul Revere House to the Old North Church. But don’t forgo exploring Boston’s appealing modern side. For a 360-degree view of the city, head for the skywalk observatory on the 50th floor of the Prudential Tower. For art, browse the Museum of Fine Arts, which includes works from Van Gogh to Egyptian sculpture. If your interests lie in the natural world, wander through the remarkable New England Aquarium or Franklin Zoo.

Established in the 19th century as New England’s premier summer resort city, Bar Harbor was originally called Eden. It’s still a seaside paradise, especially for lovers of the outdoors. Hike through Acadia National Park, behold the sweeping vistas from Cadillac Mountain, and watch for migrating humpback whales. The Wabanaki Indian exhibits in the Abbe Museum are also fascinating.

Founded by the British in 1749, Halifax still has a British military air about it. Every day at noon, a ceremonial gun is fired at the Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress where the guides wear military uniforms. The exhibits have a more seafaring slant at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and include the nearly 100-year-old Acadia.

Historic Sydney boasts several landmarks from the late 1700s, such as the colonial Cossit House and the Jost House, which features an unusual beehive bake-oven. St. Patrick’s, the city’s oldest Catholic church, doubles as a fascinating museum.

Start by taking in the breathtaking view from the monument honoring Captain James Cook, the first to map the area in 1767. More history awaits you in the Corner Brook Museum and its marine artifacts, forestry exhibits and collections from aboriginal people.

The largest city in Greenland, Nuuk is the cultural and economic center of the country. Explore the picturesque colonial harbor with its quaint old buildings and the newly renovated market where locals sell their daily catch. Greenland’s history comes alive in the National Museum, and its culture thrives in the Nuuk Museum of Art and the Katuaq Cultural Centre. Nuuk’s extensive fjord system is home to many whales, and the area is also populated by seals, reindeer, arctic foxes, arctic hares and ravens.

This colorful fishing village is rich with Inuit culture and a strong connection to the sea. Learn about the town’s history and culture on a guided tour revealing archaeological discoveries that indicate the area was inhabited as far back as 1500 BC. Explore the stunning coastline on a ferry and perhaps catch a glimpse of the minke whales, fin whales, humpback whales and orcas that swim in pods in the surrounding waters.

This charming, colorful town has a pleasant center with a small square featuring Greenland’s oldest fountain. The culture project Stone and Man can be seen as an open invitation to explore the town to find the 30 different motifs that are chiseled into rocks and stones by local and Scandinavian artists. The Church of Our Savior from 1832 and the town’s two museums are also well worth a visit.

Discover this fascinating land where the forces of nature hold sway as you visit the modern capital with its thermally heated outdoor swimming pool, remarkable botanic gardens and folk museum. Explore the starkly beautiful countryside of lava formations, glaciers and incredible waterfalls and the site where the first parliament sat in 930 A.D.

Although remotely located in northwest Iceland and surrounded by ruggedly beautiful fjords, Isafjordur is surprisingly cosmopolitan. The capital of the Westfjords has long been a cultured oasis in the midst of this haunting beauty, fueled by the rewards of being one of Iceland’s largest fishing centers. The first merchants lived in wooden houses now preserved in the Neöstikaupstaöur section of town, which is alive with shops and restaurants. Two museums are of particular interest – the West Fjords Folk Museum for tools and heritage items and the Maritime Museum for a look at the 19th century fishing industry.

Stroll through this picturesque fishing town and admire the views from the headland. Take a drive around this stunning, craggy island of majestic waterfalls, beautiful fjords, farms, villages, enigmatic sea stacks and panoramic views of the neighboring islands. Or visit an ancient Viking settlement in a valley of lakes.

Enjoy a taste of the Highlands here in the rugged landscape and heathered moors, the ruined castles, steep cliffs and sea air. Drive through beautiful valleys and flower-filled meadows with romping Shetland ponies to quaint villages like Scalloway with its ruined castle, or explore the fascinating Jarlshof prehistoric site, occupied for more than 4,000 years.

Chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2008, Stavanger lies in southwestern Norway’s stunning fjord region. Old Stavanger has been meticulously preserved with many of its wooden cottages converted into art galleries and boutiques. But it’s the museums that set this cosmopolitan city apart. The Stavanger Museum alone consists of eight buildings exhibiting collections that include maritime, medical and printing artifacts. Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy walking the nature trails along the banks of nearby Lysefjorden, a classic fjord, or beholding the amazing view of the countryside from Pulpit Rock.

Founded in 1641 near the southern tip of Norway, Kristiansand once claimed the world’s largest fleet of sailing ships. Today the proud city exudes an energy that peaks in summer, when your ship calls. The Posebyen old quarter boasts a collection of historic wooden houses surrounded by shops and restaurants. Museums abound and include the Agder Museum of Natural History and Botanical Garden, which opened in 1828. Kristiansand Zoo, said to be Norway’s most visited attraction, covers 150 acres of Nordic terrain where animals like red pandas, moose and Bactrian camels roam in wide-open spaces.

Overlooking a gorgeous fjord, Norway’s capital and largest city simply radiates with natural beauty and sophistication. Oslo’s rich seafaring history is on display at the Viking Ships Museum, rivaled only by the Kon-Tiki Museum, which holds the balsawood raft that Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl used to sail from Peru to Polynesia. History aside, Oslo exudes a love of the outdoors in city parks like Vigeland, which is adorned with over 200 life-size sculptures by artist Gustav Vigeland. Much of Oslo is heavily forested with pines, making it one of Europe’s greenest cities.

One look at the abundance of canals and gabled houses in Gothenburg, and it’s clear that the Dutch founded this robust city on the Göta River. That was in 1621, close to the time that mighty Elfsborg Fortress was built at the harbor’s mouth. Touring the citadel is fascinating, as are the 17th century Crown House, Maritiman ship museum, and Gothenburg Art Museum with masterpieces from Edvard Munch to Picasso. Gothenburg is one of Sweden’s greenest cities, compliments of parks such as Slottsskogen. For a vibrant atmosphere, walk along Kungsportavenyn, Gothenburg’s main street, which is a hive of cafés, boutiques and plazas.

See another side of this lovely city with a cruise along its charming canals. Visit the quaint old harbor at Nyhavn and beautiful Rosenborg Castle and, of course, the famed statue of the Little Mermaid. Or venture into the countryside and enjoy its panoramic vistas, fairy tale castles and the village of Fredensborg.

Enjoy the old medieval quarter of this Baltic jewel and see the lovely Golden Gate, the astonishing 15th century Artus Court, beautiful St. Mary’s Church and Oliwa Cathedral, renowned for its three pipe organs. Then see Solidarity Monument Square and the famous shipyard where workers rallied against the communist government. Or drive into the countryside and see the fascinating 13th century Malbork Castle, once home to Polish kings.

Delve into the layered history of this former Soviet port, now experiencing a well-deserved renaissance. In the fascinating Karosta district, tour a massive military prison built by the czars and later used by the Soviet Union. For a more cheerful side of Liepaja, wander the vibrant city center and discover the city’s wonderfully restored art nouveau buildings, including the bustling Peter’s Market. You’ll delight in the richly ornamented Holy Trinity Cathedral and the St. Nicholas Orthodox Naval Cathedral, brought back to its former glory from its days as a gym and movie theater for Soviet troops.

Long a popular summer getaway for Estonians, the rest of the world is just awakening to the irresistible allure of Saarema Island. Stroll the lovely capital city of Kuressaare, whose historic heart is graced with wonderful pastel-hued buildings. The town’s fairytale castle, surrounded by a moat, features several enchanting, irregularly shaped towers. Farther afield, the Viidumäe Nature Reserve and Vilsandi National Park are home to striking wild orchids and thousands of migratory birds, music to nature lovers’ ears. In the village of Angla, charming wooden windmills line a scenic country road, and on the tip of the island’s southernmost cape, the picturesque Sõrve Lighthouse rises to a height of over 170 feet.

Step back in time as you walk through this beautifully preserved medieval town and discover its upper and lower levels, the guild houses, the churches and squares, the famous apothecary shop and the exquisite town hall. See delightful parks, Baroque palaces and a ruined 15th century convent. Or visit a lovely recreated rural Estonian village by the sea.

Admire the city’s stunning modern architecture, visit its lovely parks and bustling open-air market. Take a harbor cruise past forests, beaches, villas and a ruined Suomenlinna fortress that spans five islands. Or visit historic, colorful Porvoo, Finland’s second oldest town.

Mariehamn is the capital and only city on the 6,500 islands that make up the archipelago of Åland. Though the islands are Finnish, they are an autonomous community that has adopted their own flag and Swedish as their official language. This tells you something about the residents, many of whom are descended from proudly independent and self-sufficient seafarers. Today Mariehamn is more about tourism than maritime activities, although fishing and boating are still popular. Enjoy time on the water, do some hiking or cycling, or take an easy stroll through town. Then nibble on an Åland pancake, a delicious treat topped with whipped cream and jam.

Spend a marvelous day discovering this lovely city and its beautiful buildings. Visit the charming Old Town, medieval Gamla Stan, the elegant royal palace, the wonderful parks and the impressive Vasa, the magnificently restored 17th century warship that sank in the harbor on her maiden voyage.

Enjoy a scenic drive to the German capital and savor landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the glorious Charlottenburg Palace. Stroll down Unter den Linden, see the site of the Berlin Wall and take a boat ride along the city’s canals. Explore on your own and visit one of the many museums. Or discover charming Warnemünde and its lovely Gothic church, market square and seaside promenade.

Take a boat ride along Amsterdam’s charming canals past sturdy old houses and under quaint bridges. Visit one of the city’s superb museums housing many of the Dutch Masters’ most outstanding works, or learn about Anne Frank and the city’s Jewish heritage. Journey into the countryside and see historic windmills and the fascinating porcelain works in Delft.

Take a trip up to London and get a bird’s eye view of the city from the London Eye. See sights like Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly. Stroll along Lower Regent Street or visit the British Museum.

Step back in time to the 14th century as you meander along the narrow streets of this medieval gem past gabled buildings and through the bustling market. Take a boat ride along the city’s canals. Or spend the day exploring Brussels and its famed Grand Place or Antwerp, home of Rubens and Bruegel, seeing the verdant countryside along the way.

Enjoy the relaxing drive through the countryside to Paris and then savor its bountiful attractions. Visit the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Ride a boat on the Seine, stroll the Champs-Élysées and climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Our two gateways to Paris are outstanding as well. Honfleur dates to the 11th century and features a historic waterfront. Across the Seine lies Le Havre, once home to Claude Monet. His Impressionist works hang in the Malraux Museum. Historic Rouen is closest to Paris and boasts the great Cathédrale Notre Dame.

Tour majestic St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where Jonathan Swift is buried, and stroll through lovely St. Stephen’s Green, a beautiful city park immortalized by James Joyce in Ulysses. The magnificently decorated Book of Kells is on display at the venerable Trinity College. For more secular pursuits, tour the Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Distillery and learn the secrets to making great Irish beer and whiskey.

Delight in this vibrant city of ornate Victorian and Edwardian architecture, gracious gardens and friendly pubs. Thrill to the natural phenomenon of the Giants’ Causeway, a stunning geological anomaly of tightly packed, uneven basalt columns disappearing into the sea, and the enigmatic ruins of Grey Abbey.

Donegal’s scenic fishing village, Killybegs is situated in a region marked by natural beauty and rich in Celtic heritage. Discover thatched Irish cottages and picturesque Gaeltacht villages, not to mention super fresh seafood and beautiful stretches of coastline with Blue Flag beaches. Get a sense of the town’s history and see the world’s largest hand-knotted loom at the former factory of Donegal Carpets, now known as Killybegs International Carpet Making & Fishing Centre. Nature lovers will want to head to hiking trails of dramatic Slieve League Mountains just west of Killybegs – those up for the adventure will be rewarded with stunning views of Donegal Bay, local wildlife and some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.

One of the oldest English-founded cities in North America, St. John’s is the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city comforts. Wander down narrow streets lined with colorful row houses. Visit Quidi Vidi, a charming village-within-a-city that embodies the spirit of an old fishing port. The Rooms culture center, home to a museum, art gallery and archives, stands next to the twin clock towers of the impressive Basilica of St. John the Baptist.

Just off the coast of Newfoundland, the islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon are France’s only territory in North America. The citizens take pride in keeping the French culture alive, and you will find French cuisine, reasonably priced wines and other goods. Tourism has begun to flourish here thanks to the mild climate and picturesque scenery. Explore the history and culture of the islands at the Arch Museum and Archives, the Heritage Museum and the Museum Archipelitude.

Take in the best views of this vibrant city from the Portland Observatory, America’s only remaining historic maritime signal tower. The Portland Museum of Art, located in the thriving Arts District, boasts the works of Picasso, Monet, Renoir and many other masters. Have a picnic or just relax in the serene Eastern Promenade Park, with its majestic slopes extending down to the beautiful Casco Bay.

Famous for its Gilded Age mansions, many of which are open for tours, such as the Vanderbilt’s opulent Marble House, Newport remains a charming, well-heeled resort city. For a different view of the mansions, take the scenic Cliff Walk. The rocky shoreline is also dotted with lighthouses, including the granite Castle Hill

The Big Apple. The City That Never Sleeps. Call it what you may, New York reigns as one of the world’s most dynamic cities. But where to begin? The sacred soil of Ground Zero or stunning Central Park? The Guggenheim or the American Museum of Natural History? Should you take in a Broadway show or simply enjoy the nonstop show of people that parade through the streets? The possibilities are endless in the five boroughs of New York City, so get out and enjoy.