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.

Heimaey is the largest island in the Vestmannaeyjar cluster, approximately 4 nautical miles off the south coast of Iceland. Currently Vestmannaeyjar is the home to around two million puffins, and many millions of other birds. At around one in the morning on January 23, 1973, a volcanic eruption of the mountain Eldfell began on Heimaey. The eruption lasted until July. The encroaching lava almost destroyed the harbor, but it was saved by constantly spraying cold seawater.

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.

Kirkwall is the largest town and capital of the Orkney Islands, off northern mainland Scotland. It is one of Scotland's most attractive, well-preserved small towns, with many 17th-18th century vernacular houses and buildings. It also has the English-speaking world's most northerly Carnegie library, opened by Andrew Carnegie and his wife in the early 20th century.

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.

Fishing trawlers crowding Killybegs Harbour will herald your arrival in Ireland's largest fishing port, but long before that, the majestic headlands, beaches and villages of Southwestern Donegal will have made this place memorable. You can revisit the glorious history of Donegal Carpets at the Killybegs International Carpet Making & Fishing Centre, then, after a fresh seafood feast in town, witness the spectacular Sliabh Liag cliffs that tower almost 2,000 feet above Donegal Bay.

Discover Douglas, the Isle of Man's capital, with its horse-drawn tram, Victorian promenade hotels, and rich Celtic history. Ride to the island's highest summit for views of six kingdoms: Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, the Isle of Man, and Heaven. Visit the restored Villa Marina complex, opened in 1931, shop for Manx tartans, scarves, smoked kippers, and cheeses, and enjoy fish and chips with a famous Manx beer by the waterfront.

Dublin, Ireland's capital and a UNESCO City of Literature founded in 1592, is the birthplace of Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw. Lively, cosmopolitan and walkable, it blends medieval castles and cathedrals with elegant Georgian houses. Cruise the River Liffey for views of the Ha'penny Bridge and Customs House, then explore Trinity College, Temple Bar, St. Patrick's and Christ Church cathedrals, museums, and cozy pubs.

Liverpool is a city and metropolitan borough in Merseyside, in North West England, along the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary. Inhabitants of Liverpool are referred to as Liverpudlians and nicknamed "Scousers," in reference to the local meal known as 'scouse', a form of stew. In 2004, Liverpool's waterfront was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting the city's importance in the development of the world's trading system and dock technology.

Holyhead stands on the far side of Anglesey, which is technically an island separated from Wales by the narrow Menai Straits. The distant mountains provide an ever-present backdrop, enticing the visitor to investigate their beauty. The rural charm of North Wales is juxtaposed with some unexpected features, for, perhaps to the casual visitor's surprise, this is an area that has participated in some of the great moments of our history.

Waterford, on the River Suir, is Ireland's oldest city, founded in Viking times. Its medieval walls, cobbled streets, and waterfront give it charm. Highlights include Reginald's Tower, Europe's oldest mortared stone tower and home to the Maritime and Civic Museum; the restored City Hall with the Municipal Art Collection; the Heritage Museum; and the world-famous Waterford Crystal factory, where master craftsmen shape crystal into elegant pieces.

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.