Iceland is unique-rugged, remote, modern, and affluent by Nordic standards. Its capital, Reykjavik, is a diverse city blending tradition with advanced technology, and its natural beauty is unforgettable. Visit Krýsuvík's remarkable solfatara fields: steaming volcanic vents and hot springs set amid dramatic, multicolored hills.

Grundarfjörður is a charming fishing town best known for its proximity to Iceland's most photographed mountain, Mt. Kirkjufell (Church Mountain). Shaped over millions of years by two glaciers, its steeple-like peak rises above the sea, often framed by the nearby three-pronged Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Visit the town's information center for exhibits on Snæfellsnes history and photographs by Bæring Cecilsson (1923-2002).

Discover the dazzling natural beauty of Isafjordur, where steep mountains rise on three sides around a stunning bay. Visit the Maritime Museum in one of the oldest buildings, dating to the 18th century, to trace local history. Enjoy a lively urban atmosphere with music schools, free concerts, and festivals. Shop for handmade wool items, nautical gifts, and arts and crafts, then relax with fresh baked goods and coffee at the many cafés.

Explore Akureyri, a charming town on one of the world's longest fjords, framed by snow-capped mountains. Visit HOF, the new "temple of culture," with a theater, music hall, restaurant, and Tourist Information Center. See Arctic plants in the Botanical Garden, wander Arts' Alley with its museums, galleries, and studios, and browse the tax-free town center for wool knitwear, ceramics, glassware, and silver jewelry.

Cruising into Seydisfjordur, it's easy to see how this small Eastfjords town inspires such a vibrant arts scene. Surrounded by Mt. Bjólfur and Strandartindur and framed by waterfalls, it feels striking and transformative. Stroll past brightly painted wooden houses to the Bláa Kirkjan (Blue Church), the town's iconic photo spot, and watch for reindeer on the hills plus seals and porpoises in the cold waters.

Cruising into Seydisfjordur, it's easy to see how this small Eastfjords town inspires such a vibrant arts scene. Surrounded by Mt. Bjólfur and Strandartindur and framed by waterfalls, it feels striking and transformative. Stroll past brightly painted wooden houses to the Bláa Kirkjan (Blue Church), the town's iconic photo spot, and watch for reindeer on the hills plus seals and porpoises in the cold waters.

In Scotland, arrive in Stornoway to begin a Hebridean adventure. This largest town in the Outer Hebrides is the gateway to dramatic island landscapes and Gaelic culture. See prehistoric standing stones and Iron Age brochs, explore the arts hub and new museum, browse independent shops for local crafts and gifts, and watch islanders produce Harris Tweed, the luxury hand-woven wool made here for generations.

The local Irish residents lovingly refer to their city of Londonderry as "Derry." This city of more than 70,000 lies tucked into a protective harbor dug deep into the coast which crowns this massive island's great landmass. Cold waters wash into its Lough Foyle from the mighty Atlantic bringing with them many ships. Derry is a very important port city, and is Northern Ireland's second largest.

Belfast lies snuggled into the rugged coast of Northern Ireland where the River Lagan flows to the sea. This Northern Ireland capital saw its earliest settlement in the early Middle Ages. At that time, a substantial stone fortress punctuated the horizon. Today, world travelers are eager to view her physical beauty and discover her renewed tranquility. Residents enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shop at trendy stores, and visit pubs lining The Golden Mile.

Ringaskiddy, once a quiet fishing village in County Cork, is now a busy cruise port for visits to Cobh, Cork, and Kinsale. In Cobh's Heritage Center, learn about Annie Moore, the first emigrant processed at Ellis Island in 1892. Explore walkable Cork: Parliament Bridge, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, and the Cork Courthouse, then relax at a Castle Street café. In Kinsale, a former naval base, try Dublin Bay prawns, Galway Bay oysters, or Irish stew.

Southampton is the largest city and port on the south coast of England. Tour the historic byways of Old Town with its Medieval walls and Tudor architecture. Spend an hour or two meandering along the pathways of Royal Victoria Country Park, picturesquely set along the waterfront on the grounds of a former military hospital where Florence Nightingale once worked. Southampton's maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here that the Titanic departed on its fateful journey and where the Mayflower sailed for the New World.