Artic Circle

Amsterdam delivers a sensory overload – from its welcoming gezellig Dutch spirit to the clinking of bicycle chains and tulips of every colour. This is where 17th-century Golden Age estates meet gritty Red Light District alleys, all woven together by an elaborate system of canals. Stand amidst the bustle of Dam Square and pick fresh blooms at Bloemenmarkt. See where celebrated painter Rembrandt once worked and admire his masterpieces at Rijksmuseum. Nibble on Gouda amid the greenery of Vondelpark – or relax in one of the city’s quirky coffee shops. Here it’s easy to let go and give in to romantic adventures.

For a city of 18,000 residents, Akureyri packs a lively punch. Situated at the head of Eyjafjordur, Iceland’s longest fjord, the first thing you’ll notice is the backdrop of dramatic snow-covered mountains. Take a stroll through the Old Town and admire the 19th-century turf houses. Sample some authentic Icelandic cuisine, or warm up in the steaming Akureyri Thermal Pool. Around the corner, you’ll find Akureyri’s basalt church, Akureyrarkirkja, with its striking, futuristic facade. Iceland cruises give you access to stroll through Lystigardurinn, the northernmost botanical garden in the world, and breathe in the fresh air and the scent of wild arctic flowers.

For a city of 18,000 residents, Akureyri packs a lively punch. Situated at the head of Eyjafjordur, Iceland’s longest fjord, the first thing you’ll notice is the backdrop of dramatic snow-covered mountains. Take a stroll through the Old Town and admire the 19th-century turf houses. Sample some authentic Icelandic cuisine, or warm up in the steaming Akureyri Thermal Pool. Around the corner, you’ll find Akureyri’s basalt church, Akureyrarkirkja, with its striking, futuristic facade. Iceland cruises give you access to stroll through Lystigardurinn, the northernmost botanical garden in the world, and breathe in the fresh air and the scent of wild arctic flowers.

Reykjavik is the beating heart of Iceland. The city was founded in 1786, but it’s also the site of Iceland’s first permanent settlement, dating back to 874 AD. Check out the Settlement Exhibition, a combination archaeological ruin and museum based around a 10th-century longhouse, where interactive technology and archaeology reveal historical Iceland. The church Hallgrimskirkja dominates the skyline – admire its distinctive Expressionist-style architecture designed to mirror the nearby mountains and glaciers during your Iceland cruise. Need relaxation of the highest order? Take the sub-hour drive to the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by volcanic vistas.

Ísafjörður is a town in the Westfjords region of northwest Iceland. It’s known for its dramatic landscapes. The old town has wooden houses with corrugated tin roofs built by fishing merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Westfjords Heritage Museum has exhibits on the town’s maritime history, including a collection of old fishing boats. The old hospital, now a cultural center, contains archives and photography

Prins Christian Sund is a dramatically picturesque fjord in the south of Greenland, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Marvel at gorgeous glaciers, steep mountains reaching over 2,200 metres, crystal-clear waterfalls and untouched wildlife. Jump onboard a Greenland cruise and enjoy watching whales swim along the iceberg-dotted shores. In summer, you can spot bright blue and purple flowers – and during winter nights the magical northern lights appear. Walk around the only settlement here, Aappilattoq, a small village of colourful Nordic-style houses that’s home to only around 100 people.

With 3,229 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is a large town for Greenlandic standards. Stroll around the historical buildings in this colourful colonial town, formerly known as Julianeha. Cruise to Greenland to admire the open-air sculpture gallery Stone and Man, and check out the spouting whale fountain. Then, visit the quaint Qaqortoq Museum, housed in the town’s oldest building. Kayak among the fjords around the city, or hike along the nearby mountain-rimmed Lake Tasersuaq. Later, soak your stress away in the delightful hot springs, bubbling at a perfect 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit on the island of Uunartoq.

Protected by a narrow, rocky entrance,St. John’s harbour may seem like a quaint island village but it is actually a modern city with plenty of cultural attractions. This vibrant port city is a nice contrast to some of the more rural outlying areas, and offers plenty of facilities for travellers and locals alike.

Halifax was founded as a naval base in 1749 — but you’d never know it from the vibe of this bustling urban capital today. Peer a little closer and you’ll see the Citadel, the star-shaped fortress that still stands guard from its hilltop perch. Discover historic architecture, restaurants, museums and boutique shops on the restored waterfront. Hop a ferry to Dartmouth or visit Peggy’s Cove. Jump onboard a Nova Scotia cruise and spend your day whale-watching, or sailing, and celebrate the day with some of the best beer and lobster the Maritimes have to offer.

The sight of the world’s largest fiddle welcomes you to Sydney, Nova Scotia. In this enclave on Cape Breton Island, metropolitan charm meets local hospitality. Originally founded by Loyalists spooked by the American Revolution, Sydney remains a haven – but today, it’s one replete with golf courses, a hearty music scene and the world-famous Cabot Trail. Step back into the 18th century while you walk amongst the town’s classically inspired buildings and dramatically steepled churches. Cruise to Nova Scotia and stroll along the boardwalk, indulge your inner lover of learning at the Cape Breton Centre for Heritage and Science, and end your day toe-tapping to Celtic beats.

Whether you’re wandering among priceless works of art at The Met or the MoMa, tucking into a slice of famous New York-style pizza in Little Italy, catching a performance of your favourite musical on Broadway or enjoying a picnic in scenic Central Park, New York City brims with countless ways to fill your days with wonder. But did you know that the Big Apple also serves as a portal to some of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the Caribbean and along the coasts of New England and Canada? Just a quick car ride away you’ll find the bustling port of Cape Liberty, home to some of the most incredible ships in the Royal Caribbean NY cruises fleet. Not only is it the perfect starting point for cruises to sun-soaked Bermuda, The Bahamas and other exotic shores in the Caribbean, including the newly revamped Royal Caribbean private destination Perfect Day at CocoCay – it’s also where you’ll catch cruises from NY to the picturesque port towns that line the rugged Northeastern coastline all the way to Canada, like Bar Harbour, Halifax and Quebec City. Whatever holiday spot tops your bucket list, you’ll find the perfect cruise out of New York to get you there.

Sightseeing in Manhattan excites and amazes like nowhere else – and every neighbourhood presents a fascinating, unique personality. Tour the Rockefeller Centre and catch a show at Radio City Music Hall. Walk the High Line and soak in the urban buzz of Times Square. New York cruises allow you to experience it all – by tour bus, train or on foot.

Stand amongst skyscrapers on one of New York’s scenic observation decks. Admire Central Park from the open-air Top of the Rock. Enjoy twinkling evening views from the top of the Empire State Building. Or venture 104 floors up to the One World Observatory in the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.