A Grand Journey from Norse Capitals to the Coasts of Canada & New England

Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.

Not many cities are greener – in habitat or sustainability - than Oslo. With over half Norway’s capital city being covered by forests and parks, it’s only natural that the fjord creeps into the city centre. Nature aside, there’s so much more to explore; music, museums, opera, the Vigeland Sculpture Park and one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Learn about the works of Edvard Munch and the importance of climate change or attend a private aquavit tasting and the Royal Palace. Embark on an aquatic safari, boat jaunt or bike tour. Then consider concluding your day with a classic finish – plunge fjord deep in for some stimulating cold-water therapy. They say these organic city waters are as clean as they are unique.

Known as the gateway to the world and bearing the most bridges, immerse yourself with Hamburgers to the sound of canals and cuisine, architecture and music. Prepare to be submerged in culture; from affluent villas to modest Almshouses, the last castle, an inner-city lake, a floating landing platform, the neo-Renaissance Town hall, an industrial underground tunnel and baroque masterpiece, St Nicholas Church. Wander to the solid brick warehouse district of UNESCO Hafen City; touch the shining wave of glass of the futuristic Elbphilharmonie, listen to crystal clear acoustics that pair with Sydney’s Opera House and enjoy views of the River Elbe. Hamburg offers unique, memorable entertainment - for all your senses.

Known as the gateway to the world and bearing the most bridges, immerse yourself with Hamburgers to the sound of canals and cuisine, architecture and music. Prepare to be submerged in culture; from affluent villas to modest Almshouses, the last castle, an inner-city lake, a floating landing platform, the neo-Renaissance Town hall, an industrial underground tunnel and baroque masterpiece, St Nicholas Church. Wander to the solid brick warehouse district of UNESCO Hafen City; touch the shining wave of glass of the futuristic Elbphilharmonie, listen to crystal clear acoustics that pair with Sydney’s Opera House and enjoy views of the River Elbe. Hamburg offers unique, memorable entertainment - for all your senses.

Sail into this vibrant quay with enough shops and entertainment to form its own village. Modern and lively, this coastal town bustles with waterfront restaurants, heritage charm, bars, cinemas and offers great access to other spots in the South of England. Sit back and drift through heavenly countryside to ancient Stonehenge, see if the Queen’s at home in Windsor, learn secrets from the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery or slip up to London for some rich British culture. Then enjoy a cup of tea as you reflect on formal traditions, perfect your cockney accent and recall England’s green and pleasant lands.

Oban, "little bay" in Gaelic, today has a resident population of 8,500 and is the unofficial capital of the West Highlands - the "Gateway to the Isles." The panoramic views of the mountains, lochs and islands which have captivated artists, authors, composers, and poets for centuries are as striking now as they were when Dunollie Castle, a ruined keep which has stood sentinel over the narrow entrance to the sheltered bay for around six hundred years, was the northern outpost of the Dalriadic Scots. It is no surprise to find Oban in the 21st-century remains a magnet for travellers from all over the world. The town's present day popularity owes much to the Victorians, and as early as 1812, when the Comet steamship linked Oban with Glasgow, the town played host to intrepid travellers touring Staffa - the inspiration for Mendelssohn's Hebridean Overture - and Iona - home of Scottish Christianity since St Columba stepped ashore in AD563. Indeed once Oban had the royal seal of approval from Queen Victoria, who called it "one of the finest spots we have seen," the town's destiny as an endearingly enchanting holiday destination was as firmly set as the lava columns of Fingal's Cave in Oban is justifiably known as the “gateway to the Isles.” The town's south pier is the embarkation point for car ferries to Mull, Coll, Tiree, Barra, South Uist, Colonsay, Lismore and Islay. From these islands you can travel further a field to Iona, Staffa and to many of the smaller less well known isles.

Head to a far-off land in the Outer Hebrides, where unique culture awaits you at one of Britain’s best kept secrets. Spot seals and whales from breathtaking beaches and dramatic headlands that fringe miles of peat-covered moorland. Visit Lews Castle, the prehistoric Standing Stones at Callandish, learn the art of weaving or crofting and enjoy peat-smoked scallops or battered fish and chips. And as you admire your new hand-woven Harris tweed jacket, bid farewell to authentic Gaelic values, and the fabulously iconic long-haired cattle.

Quiet and unassuming, this charming town offers an abundance of authentic experiences. Located along one of the region’s largest fjords, discover museums, galleries, the northernmost botanical garden and nearly- northernmost golf course. Take to the skies for the ultimate view or watch the scenery unfold as you raft down a glacial canyon. Sink into a beer bath, ride Icelandic horses or visit the waterfall of Gods. Something of a bathing mecca, refresh in the town’s geothermal swimming pool, soak up hot spring minerals within My’vatn Nature Baths and encounter incredible views as you let the warm sea work miracles at the restorative GeoSea baths. Wellbeing personified.

Feel free within the peaceful, beautiful countryside that surrounds a handful of tin-roofed towns. Roam the wild Westfjords territory; whale watch, bird watch, kayak, horseback ride, hike, cycle or play golf – the options are endless. Learn of maritime heritage at the Westfjords Museum, travel by boat to the remote Hornstrandir peninsula, visit friendly fishing villages, spot Arctic foxes and experience life as a Viking at Skalinn Viking Centre. Small and unspoilt, Isafjordur exhibits a largely uninhabited Icelandic wonderland.

Feel the magnetic lure of adventure at the world’s northernmost capital. Mystical landscapes promise dramatic snow-capped volcanoes, ice fields and mountains for thrilling quests; explore by helicopter, ride Icelandic horses, zip through lava tunnels on super trucks and rocket across glaciers on snow scooters. Then slow down to visit a geothermal-fired bakery and greenhouse, soak in wellbeing springs, the blue lagoon or refresh at the nearby face mask bar. And as the nightlife beckons under the sun that barely sets, drink black death schnapps as a poetic reminder of Reykjavik’s exhilarating activities.

Feel the magnetic lure of adventure at the world’s northernmost capital. Mystical landscapes promise dramatic snow-capped volcanoes, ice fields and mountains for thrilling quests; explore by helicopter, ride Icelandic horses, zip through lava tunnels on super trucks and rocket across glaciers on snow scooters. Then slow down to visit a geothermal-fired bakery and greenhouse, soak in wellbeing springs, the blue lagoon or refresh at the nearby face mask bar. And as the nightlife beckons under the sun that barely sets, drink black death schnapps as a poetic reminder of Reykjavik’s exhilarating activities.

Feel the magnetic lure of adventure at the world’s northernmost capital. Mystical landscapes promise dramatic snow-capped volcanoes, ice fields and mountains for thrilling quests; explore by helicopter, ride Icelandic horses, zip through lava tunnels on super trucks and rocket across glaciers on snow scooters. Then slow down to visit a geothermal-fired bakery and greenhouse, soak in wellbeing springs, the blue lagoon or refresh at the nearby face mask bar. And as the nightlife beckons under the sun that barely sets, drink black death schnapps as a poetic reminder of Reykjavik’s exhilarating activities.

Keep quiet about Paamiut – it’s the best kept secret in the region. Head off the well-trodden path and be welcomed with mugs of kaffemik coffee and many a story. Noble and colonial-style, the harbourside gives way to brightly coloured, protected buildings - a church, museum and just a few residents. Hike trails through untouched landscapes, spot spiritual white-tailed eagles and find peace in this natural habitat at the entrance to the Kuanersooq Fjord. This place is good for the soul but remember not to tell a soul.

Step into the boots of Eric the Red and into a city that means white, with green land and colourful houses. Unfold layers of Norse culture, history and nature within Stone & Man carvings and sculptures and explore local fish markets and homebrewed beer. Witness amazing arctic sights of icebergs, glaciers and tundra by boat or helicopter, within the warm waters at Uunartoq Hot Spring, or at your own pace by kayak. Feel your mind and body warmed - from the standard Inuit welcome, to the perfectly balanced climate.

Old meets new in the province's capital (metro-area population a little more than 200,000), with modern office buildings surrounded by heritage shops and colorful row houses. St. John's mixes English and Irish influences, Victorian architecture and modern convenience, and traditional music and rock and roll into a heady brew. The arts scene is lively, but overall the city moves at a relaxed pace.For centuries, Newfoundland was the largest supplier of salt cod in the world, and St. John's Harbour was the center of the trade. As early as 1627, the merchants of Water Street—then known as the Lower Path—were doing a thriving business buying fish, selling goods, and supplying alcohol to soldiers and sailors.

Embrace the perfect blend of urban charm, historic sites, captivating scenery and warm hospitality in Cape Breton. Applaud buskers along the charming waterfront, capture a moment beside the world’s largest fiddle and drop into eclectic boutiques. Hike along part of the far-reaching Cabot Trail – a must for anyone wishing to absorb the spectacular scenery. Immerse yourself in Nova Scotian culture as you engage in the works of local artisans – from painters to carpenters and glass blowers to chocolatiers, this truly is a handicraft haven.

Welcome the vibrant, culture-filled capital of Nova Scotia. Trace Canada’s roots back through historic sites and museums, shop in the progressive farmers’ market, dine in a flourishing food scene and head up the ancient fort crowned hill for commanding views of the harbour. Drop down to refresh at a winery, embark on a salt-water ferry cruise and head to Peggy’s Cove to glimpse the iconic lighthouse. With a wealth of wooded nature never far away, wind around the coast and wander through Canada’s most glamourous Victorian gardens to gaze at flower beds blooming with beauty.

Wake up to be part of a city that never sleeps. Fly by helicopter over the Manhattan Skyline for flawless images of the Statue of Liberty, neon-lit Times Square, sprawling Central Park, the skyscraping Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge. Explore Picasso, Pollock and others at the Museum of Modern Art. Then create your own kitsch masterpiece from a blank canvas at a painting party in Havana’s emporium. Pay your respects and honour gallant heroes at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum mission. Listen to backstage stories in the Broadway theatre district, shop in the East Village, eat streetside hotdogs, sip cocktails in elegant bars, take in a show. And as evening falls, take a walk with your loved one over Brooklyn Bridge. Big, bold and brash – there's a lot to bite off in the Big Apple.

Wake up to be part of a city that never sleeps. Fly by helicopter over the Manhattan Skyline for flawless images of the Statue of Liberty, neon-lit Times Square, sprawling Central Park, the skyscraping Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge. Explore Picasso, Pollock and others at the Museum of Modern Art. Then create your own kitsch masterpiece from a blank canvas at a painting party in Havana’s emporium. Pay your respects and honour gallant heroes at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum mission. Listen to backstage stories in the Broadway theatre district, shop in the East Village, eat streetside hotdogs, sip cocktails in elegant bars, take in a show. And as evening falls, take a walk with your loved one over Brooklyn Bridge. Big, bold and brash – there's a lot to bite off in the Big Apple.

Lighthouses and lobster. Beaches and the beautiful. Wander into a Maine experience of heady culinary pleasures, architecture, maritime history, handsome heritage landmarks and cultural flair. Where the past merges seamlessly with the sustainable present, and sweet bakeries sit between award-winning restaurants serving world-famous lobster. Stroll downtown to the lively Old Port district to the fashionable art scene, wander through cobbled streets to the flourishing fish market with striking views of the Casco Bay islands, and relax with your loved one on a romantic tour of Maine coastline and lighthouses. Stylish and sophisticated, you can sense the sweet tenderness in this relaxed and hip East Coast waterfront town.

Immerse yourself in Canada’s oldest incorporated city. Learn about the province’s heritage and stunning Beaux-Arts architecture. Zip Wire over lush landscapes and discover freshwater lakes, miles of nature trails, sandy beaches, salt marshes and waterfalls. Admire the thriving sea bird population in the Bay of Fundy ecosystem, enjoy seafood and caviar, attend a wine-tasting or simply drift gently through remote and calming fishing villages.

Make memories on Prince Edward Island as you explore a capital city set in small-town tradition. Re-energise in the buzzing art and culture scene teeming with historical discoveries. Wander lengthy boardwalks framing deep-water harbours, admire red brick facades by horse-drawn carriage or choose a coastal drive to encounter the full beauty of this picturesque region. Nostalgic, beautiful, and romantic – no wonder artists continue to be inspired in Canada’s culture capital.

Soak up the sublime scenery in a beautiful bay bathed in history and tradition. Visit historical sites, artisan boutiques, art galleries and taste local culinary delicacies. Immerse in remarkable nature as you explore forested National Parks, salmon-filled rivers, long stretches of countryside and mountainous coastlines dotted with lighthouses. Glimpse moose, gannet and caribou, and welcome kind locals’ warmth in sustained fishing villages, as you embrace this wildly picturesque peninsular.

Prepare to encounter a province thriving with culture and cuisine, history and heritage, and so much more. Explore impressive architecture, intriguing history, imposing landmarks and the treasured streets of UNESCO praised Old Québec. Relax at Parisian-style bistros and modern art exhibitions or choose to partake in thrilling alfresco pursuits. Delve deep into nature to kayak through a fjord, walk the width of Montmorency Falls, zipline, paddleboard, surf and mountain bike in tranquil settings. Home to capital Montréal and an incredibly friendly nation, there’s something for everyone in this mostly French speaking region.