Muse on voyages past as you sail in or out of Southampton, long a maritime center, its yards turning out warships for king and country from the Hundred Years War in the 14-15th centuries, to two world wars in the 20th. It was the departure point for the Mayflower in 1620, and for the ill-fated Titanic in 1912. The charms of London are not far away, but pray tarry in the south to explore other wonders, including Bath, with its natural hot springs and stunning architecture and the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge, or venture all the way west to Lands End, and the wild moorlands and pirate haunts of Cornwall.

Bordeaux’s fortunes have long been tied to viticulture, beginning with an expansion of the wine trade with England in the 14th century. As a result it is a handsome and cohesive city of uniform classical and neoclassical style, with monumental buildings and many fine mansions financed by the almighty grape. The nearby countryside is alive with wine chateaux sporting impressive appellations such as Pauillac, Sauternes, Margaux, and Saint-Emilion. A visit is an excellent opportunity to learn more about wine production and appreciation, which of course requires a considerable amount of tasting to accomplish.

Bordeaux’s fortunes have long been tied to viticulture, beginning with an expansion of the wine trade with England in the 14th century. As a result it is a handsome and cohesive city of uniform classical and neoclassical style, with monumental buildings and many fine mansions financed by the almighty grape. The nearby countryside is alive with wine chateaux sporting impressive appellations such as Pauillac, Sauternes, Margaux, and Saint-Emilion. A visit is an excellent opportunity to learn more about wine production and appreciation, which of course requires a considerable amount of tasting to accomplish.

On the Bay of Biscay, in the self-governing community of Asturias, lies the northern city of Gijón. This region is known for its verdant hills; the greenest perhaps in all of Spain. The contrast against the bay is stunning; however, the main attraction is the fishing village of Cimadevilla, meaning ‘top of the village.’ Step back in time as you stroll its tiny streets with renovated buildings in every imaginable hue.

Located on Spain’s northwest Atlantic coast, this ancient city is a pleasing blend of the old and new. It is the site of the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world and the early training ground of the young Picasso. In addition to its collection of Romanesque streets, squares and medieval churches, La Coruna’s dazzling beaches and lively nightlife have made it a favorite vacation destination.

At the mouth of the Rio Douro lies the city of Porto, known mostly for its port wine trade.

With origins dating back to the 5th century, there is plenty to see in this town that was named European Capital of Culture in 2001. Stroll the Ribeira neighborhood along the river, explore the Cathedral area, or tour the port lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia across the river.

Savoring a taste of tawny port, tripe, and seafood while here is highly recommended.

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its magnificent harbor made it a logical trading port as far back as the Phoenicians, as well as a departure point for 15th century voyages sponsored by Prince Henry the Navigator, patron of Portuguese explorers. The city is rich in architecture, from Romanesque and Gothic to Post Modern, and criss-crossed by monument-studded grand boulevards. Today it is seeking a place on the world stage by hosting, in addition to its own active cultural calendar, film festivals, art, fashion, and design shows, book fairs, marathons, and rock concerts.