Embark/Disembark Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona's old city is, without doubt, one of the most romantic of Europe with unbelievable architecture and flair. Its small streets, shops, the air you breathe, everything invites you to wander around, getting to know every place of this charming area. Even if we propose you a route, our best tip is to walk haphazardly around, without rushing, guided by what you see, for example the most famous ‘Las Rambles’ which is very famous and similar to the Champs Elysee in Paris. Or you can take an open air bus that allows you to enjoy the city views. People from all around the world enjoy visiting this city for its individuality, cultural interest and physical beauty. The city is a major cultural city with fascinating history. Everywhere are archives, libraries and museums. About one hour northwest of Barcelona is the Monastery of Montserrat, a spectacularly beautiful Benedictine monastery. Pilgrims have been drawn to the mountain since the 12th century to venerate the miraculous statue of the Black Madonna (La Moreneta).

Excursions: For more information please visit hollandamerica.com
 

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Monaco, home of the royal Grimaldi family, is a principality of fairytale beauty. With spacious beaches, elegant hotels and a vibrant nightlife, this tiny domain is a favorite haunt of the jet set. The fashionable enclave numbers only about 50,000 residents and is smaller than New York’s Central Park, but it boasts some of the most expensive real estate in the world. In addition to luxury hotels and beautiful beaches, Monaco is noted for its mild climate and magnificent scenery. In Monte Carlo, the Grand Casino is perhaps Monaco's most outstanding attraction.

Excursions: For more information please visit hollandamerica.com
 

Cannes, France

Cannes is the star of the French Riviera coast. While most famous for the Cannes Film Festival, this seaside city is an international year-round center of culture. Naturally, you will want to see the settings and places where so many famous celebrities and actors have been around. But, we also encourage you to take in the view from Mount Chevalier or shop in the markets and stroll along the waterfront of the old port where humble fishing vessels sit in wonderful contrast to the million-dollar yachts. Cannes is famous for its luxury stores, fancy restaurants and prestigious hotels. Its beaches are a huge draw and some not to be missed. While many are private you can access them for a small fee. Once in Cannes take advantage of some of the side trips and discover the beauty of some of the most charming, traditional Provencal Villages.

Excursions: For more information please visit hollandamerica.com
 

Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Palma de Mallorca is the capital of the Spanish Balearic Islands of the Mediterranean. The sunny islands are a prime and popular Mediterranean vacation destination for northern Europeans, largely because of the stunning variety of its scenery, the warm hospitality of the islanders and the richness of its food and drink. The island of Mallorca is a regular and beautiful stop for cruises to the Western Mediterranean. It is the largest of the Balearic Islands and is covered with picturesque countryside with its haciendas, mountains and valleys but also with its beautiful beaches. Set in the stunning bay of Palma, famous for its sunsets, the Palma de Mallorca's most imposing site is the huge 13th century Cathedral. Visitors today can benefit from the same inspiring beauty and tranquility that long ago impressed the composer Chopin, the poet Robert Graves and others before and after them. A drive from one side of the island to the other can take less than two hours, but in that time the visitor can stop to gaze out towards Africa from awe inspiring rugged cliff tops, cross the spectacular Tramuntana mountain range.
  

Casablanca, Morocco

Just the mention of the word “Casablanca” stirs emotions in many of us. After all, most have seen the famous Bogart/Bergman movie of the same name or read stories about Casablanca’s role in the history of Africa and Europe. Although Casablanca was the French colonial administrative center in the early 20th century, today it is the commercial capital of the Kingdom of Morocco and home to over four million inhabitants. Little of the atmosphere from the first half of the 20th century remains, but the old town still holds fascination for most visitors. Casablanca means white houses in Spanish style, and the reason for the city's name will become quite obvious as you explore the city's landscape. White houses and white office buildings are the norm here in Morocco's busiest city. The Hassan II Mosque stands out above the white landscape, a green tiled edifice that catches your eye no matter where you are. For those who have not previously been to Casablanca a tour is a good way to see the Casablancan highlights. The tour includes a stop at the Grand Mosque built in 1993 and a walk through the Habbous Quarter. The mosque is a blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and new technology and this beautiful monument dominates the city.

Excursions: For more information please visit hollandamerica.com
 

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Scheduled itinerary

Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Embarkation Noon to 4pm
Barcelona, Spain
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Monte Carlo, Monaco
Friday, September 18, 2009
Cannes, France
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Palma De Mallorca, Balearic Islands 
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Cruising At Sea 
Monday, September 21, 2009
Casablanca, Morocco
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
At Sea
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Barcelona, Spain

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No other 7 day cruise can offer these enchanting ports of call.