Reykjavik to New York

The capital of Iceland’s land of ice, fire and natural wonder, Reykjavik is a city like no other - blossoming among some of the world’s most vibrant and violent scenery. Home to two-thirds of Iceland’s population, Reykjavik is the island’s only real city, and a welcoming and walkable place - full of bicycles gliding along boulevards or battling the wind when it rears up. Fresh licks of paint brighten the streets, and an artistic and creative atmosphere embraces studios and galleries - as well as the kitchens where an exciting culinary scene is burgeoning. Plot your adventures in the city's hip bars and cosy cafes, or waste no time in venturing out to Iceland’s outdoor adventures. Reykjavik’s buildings stand together - below the whip of winter’s winds - together with the magnificent Hallgrímskirkja church, with its bell tower rising resolutely over the city. Iceland’s largest church's design echoes the lava flows that have shaped this remote land and boasts a clean and elegant interior. The Harpa Concert Hall’s sheer glass facade helps it to assimilate into the landscape, mirroring back the city and harbour. Its LED lights shimmer in honour of Iceland’s greatest illuminated performance – the northern lights. Walk in the crusts between continents, feel the spray from bursts of geysers and witness the enduring power of Iceland’s massive waterfalls. Whether you want to sizzle away in the earth-heated geothermal pools, or hike to your heart’s content, you can do it all from Reykjavik - the colourful capital of this astonishing outdoor country.

The transit through the Sound is one of this voyage’s highlights. Connecting the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Seat, Prince Christian Sound or “Prins Christian Sund” in Danish is named after Prince (later King) Christian VII (1749-1808). 100 km (60 miles ), long and at times just 500 m (1500 ft) wide, this majestic and spectacular fiord throws you back into a Viking era – flanked by soaring snow-topped mountains, rock-strewn cliffs and rolling hills, it is as if time has stood still and one easily forgets that this is the 21st century. As you marvel at the sheer size of the mountains that surround you, with the Arctic waters lapping deceptively at the hull, revel in the silence enveloping you. Icebergs float serenely by, carrying with them the ages of time. Be sure to wear warm clothing as this is one spectacle that you do not want to miss.

There is a wonderful legend that the Vikings named Greenland Green and Iceland Ice in order to confuse potential attackers. Because it is quite the opposite; if Iceland is full of emerald forest, then expect ice in Greenland. Lots and lots of ice.Thus one shouldn’t be too surprised to learn that the name Nanortalik means “place of polar bears”. Although, as Nanortalik is Greenland’s most southerly town, don’t be too disappointed if you don’t see any. In truth, Greenland’s polar bears typically live much further north.What you will see however is Mother Nature at her finest. Vertical cliff walls, sheets of floating sea ice and a plethora of Arctic wildlife that amount to an adventurer’s wonderland. As Nanortalik itself is located on a small island in the southern tip of Greenland, nature is never far away, wherever you find yourself.The optimistically named city centre is surrounded by the pristine waters of Tasermiut Fjord and dotted with the colourful houses you would expect this far north. Traditionally, artisans’ houses were painted different colours to showcase what they did, i.e. commercial houses were red; hospitals were yellow; police stations were black; the telephone company was green and fish factories were blue. Today it is more a case of anything goes! Nanortalik locals are warm and welcoming, and are known to extent the art of Kaffe-Mik to its visitors. This old tradition is where a family invites guests into their home to drink coffee and taste their famous Greenlandic cake.

In the bustling capital city of Greenland, you could be forgiven for forgetting you are in such a vast and isolated country. Nuuk is Greenland's economic and social hub, home to more than a third of Greenland's population, and although it feels like a world capital, scratch the surface, and a uniquely Greenlandic character can be found underneath. Nuuk Cathedral overlooks the gorgeous old Colonial Harbour district and the Greenland National Museum, resting place of the legendary Qilakitsoq mummies, the true highlight of the museum's archaeological collection. Above the Colonial Harbour sits downtown Nuuk, with lines of Scandistyle apartments, a bustling shopping district, the Greenlandic Parliament, Nuuk City Hall (which welcomes visitors to see its artwork) and even outdoor cafes selling locally produced food and beer. These nods to modernity compete for space with local artisan boutiques, the meat market selling the catch from Nuuk's vast fjord-lands, and the stunning Katuaq Cultural Centre, where blockbuster movies, as well as local and foreign performers entertain the people of Nuuk. Although Nuuk has long been a melting pot of Danish and Greenlandic ideas, this is a city where Greenland displays its sophistication, with the Country's only traffic lights, roundabouts and University. Most of all, expect to find a multitude of friendly people who are proud of who they are, and equally proud of the city they call home.

Paamiut, in southwestern Greenland is definitely an off the beaten track destination but well worth the journey! The brightly coloured houses dotted around the port bring warmth to the artic scenery. The history of the community dates back to 1500 BC but it was in the 18th Century that Paamiut evolved into a major trading hub within Greenland. Seal fur, whale products and soapstone carving made it prosperous. Today the draw is the opportunity to immerse yourself in such an unspoiled, majestic landscape and to observe the rare wildlife within. During the warmer summer months, minke whales, fin whales and humped back whales are all common visitors and with sharp eyes, can be seen from the shore. Craggy mountains, ethereal glaciers and clear fjords offer endless possibilities for hiking and kayaking. Rare sea eagles - Nattoralik, have made their home in these remote parts and seeing one is said to bring you good luck. Guardians of this incredible natural legacy are the Paamiut people who are justifiably proud of their culture and extremely welcoming to visitors. There is a small museum where you can learn about the fascinating local customs, traditions and way of life.

Colourful white-trimmed buildings splash a haze of bright-beauty across the spectacular Newfoundland coastline of St John’s. Picturesque steep streets roll down to the seafront and the charming architecture contrasts beautifully against the wild and rugged shoreline with redolent pine forests spreading out behind. The province's capital St John’s is a lively outpost - and one of North America’s oldest and most historically engaging places. A rich trading history of haggling and hawking has played out on these animated historic streets – especially Water Street which is one of North America’s oldest. St John’s boasts incredible history as the launch point for daring transatlantic voyages and a leap of human ingenuity is celebrated on Signal Hill. It was here where the first transatlantic transmission was received in 1901. Rise up to receive stunning views of the Atlantic and the city spreading around the harbour from the fortified Cabot Tower. Rugged hiking trails and puffin-nesting cliffs add extra character to this remarkable island. The twin bell towers of the Basilica of St John the Baptist are a St John’s landmark and a National Historic Site dedicated to the city’s namesake saint. The Quidi Vidi fishing village is an arresting stop inhabited by busy artisans and local craft brewers - who produce characterful beers befitting this exuberant city of bold colours. George Street is the perfect spot to try a glass or two – the street is said to have the most bars per person of anywhere in Canada.

Colourful white-trimmed buildings splash a haze of bright-beauty across the spectacular Newfoundland coastline of St John’s. Picturesque steep streets roll down to the seafront and the charming architecture contrasts beautifully against the wild and rugged shoreline with redolent pine forests spreading out behind. The province's capital St John’s is a lively outpost - and one of North America’s oldest and most historically engaging places. A rich trading history of haggling and hawking has played out on these animated historic streets – especially Water Street which is one of North America’s oldest. St John’s boasts incredible history as the launch point for daring transatlantic voyages and a leap of human ingenuity is celebrated on Signal Hill. It was here where the first transatlantic transmission was received in 1901. Rise up to receive stunning views of the Atlantic and the city spreading around the harbour from the fortified Cabot Tower. Rugged hiking trails and puffin-nesting cliffs add extra character to this remarkable island. The twin bell towers of the Basilica of St John the Baptist are a St John’s landmark and a National Historic Site dedicated to the city’s namesake saint. The Quidi Vidi fishing village is an arresting stop inhabited by busy artisans and local craft brewers - who produce characterful beers befitting this exuberant city of bold colours. George Street is the perfect spot to try a glass or two – the street is said to have the most bars per person of anywhere in Canada.

A city that thrives on a diet of music, outdoor events and ocean-faring history, Nova Scotia's capital - and Atlantic Canada's largest conurbation - oozes salt-licked charm. The star-shaped fortress of Halifax Citadel sits above the city, while down below, Halifax revolves around its bustling harbour. Here, jet-skis skid across the water and heritage ships jaunt out to scenic offshore islands. Music carries on the waterfront's breeze as summer’s events play out, while a hefty population of pubs and restaurants provides all the space required for sitting back and relaxing. The shorefront boardwalk invites you on a gentle stroll along the waves, wandering back through Halifax's history. The Canadian Museum of Immigration waits at Pier 21 and was the doorway to a country of opportunity for so many - with over a million immigrants taking their first footsteps into Canada here. The pier's wooden boards are dotted with cafes, craft shops and artist studios. Sail deeper into seafaring heritage at the maritime museum. As the closest city to the sinking of the Titanic, recovered victims were transported to - and many were buried - in Halifax. The story, and items from the doomed vessel, are displayed in the museum's collection. Peggy's Cove lighthouse is nearby, and this immaculate little lighthouse is one of Canada's favourite, watching out stoically over the Atlantic's waves. With rich pickings available from its coastal location, the fruits of the sea are served up in the fryers of Halifax's varied restaurants - try seared scallops and juicy mussels. Round off any meal with a buttery blueberry grunt dessert – delicious when served up warm with a dollop of melting vanilla ice cream.

A city that thrives on a diet of music, outdoor events and ocean-faring history, Nova Scotia's capital - and Atlantic Canada's largest conurbation - oozes salt-licked charm. The star-shaped fortress of Halifax Citadel sits above the city, while down below, Halifax revolves around its bustling harbour. Here, jet-skis skid across the water and heritage ships jaunt out to scenic offshore islands. Music carries on the waterfront's breeze as summer’s events play out, while a hefty population of pubs and restaurants provides all the space required for sitting back and relaxing. The shorefront boardwalk invites you on a gentle stroll along the waves, wandering back through Halifax's history. The Canadian Museum of Immigration waits at Pier 21 and was the doorway to a country of opportunity for so many - with over a million immigrants taking their first footsteps into Canada here. The pier's wooden boards are dotted with cafes, craft shops and artist studios. Sail deeper into seafaring heritage at the maritime museum. As the closest city to the sinking of the Titanic, recovered victims were transported to - and many were buried - in Halifax. The story, and items from the doomed vessel, are displayed in the museum's collection. Peggy's Cove lighthouse is nearby, and this immaculate little lighthouse is one of Canada's favourite, watching out stoically over the Atlantic's waves. With rich pickings available from its coastal location, the fruits of the sea are served up in the fryers of Halifax's varied restaurants - try seared scallops and juicy mussels. Round off any meal with a buttery blueberry grunt dessert – delicious when served up warm with a dollop of melting vanilla ice cream.

New York, is a cultural powerhouse like no other. Liberally scattered with familiar landmarks, world-leading museums, and with an atmosphere and infectious energy found nowhere else, any visit to this one-of-a-kind cinematic city is a frantic, fascinating feast for the senses. Where New York leads, others follow and this city is a proud trailblazer. On the cusp of trends, but with plenty of traditions, New York is a world to itself, and endless opportunities and experiences await between its audacious skyscrapers.Whether it's cycling through the leafy oasis of Central Park, rising to the iconic cityscape views atop the Empire State Building or walking to Brooklyn's hipster appeal across the Brooklyn Bridge's chained expanse, New York City feels at once familiar and fantastical. Leading museums and galleries like the MET, the Guggenheim and Museum of Modern Art add cultural intrigue matched by few others, while the flashing lights of Broadway mark the pinnacle of careers and provide world-class entertainment. Also scarred by tragedy, New York City responded to its darkest day with thoughtful memorials of loss, and by boldly reaching higher - the glassy new One World Trade Center building is the northern hemisphere's tallest skyscraper. Drop in on Wall Street's excesses, before sailing out from the financial district's reaching towers to the waves below Lady Liberty's gaze. At night the city lights up with shows, and roof-top restaurants serve up innovative dishes above the glowing, buzzing streets below.