Island Princess World Cruise Cruise on Island Princess from Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the largest city in California and the second-largest urban area in the nation. It is located in the southern part of the state on the Pacific Ocean. It is a favorite vacation destination and attracts millions of tourists to the area each year from all over the world. Apart from the movie studios, points of interest include the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the La Brea Tar Pits (famous for Ice Age fossils), Disneyland (Anaheim), and the Santa Anita and Hollywood racetracks. Today, Hollywood is a part of Los Angeles.

Honolulu (Hawaii)

The isle of Hawaii is named Grnad Island, and we explain why. It is more than double the size than all the rest of Hawaiian isles together, and is completely full of luxuriant nature, from the rugged volcanoes to the cascades and the rainy forrests. It is the home of smokey volcano craters and rivers of dry lava in the National Park of the Volcanoes.

Kauai (Nawiliwili, Hawaii)

Kauai is the oldest of the hawaiian islands. Used as the backdrop for the Hollywood film Jurassic Park, the island boasts spectacular volcanic peaks and lush rainforrests. With more miles of sandy coastline than the other Hawaiian islands this virtually untouched tropical paradise is also known by locals as the "Garden Isle". Natural wonders such as Waimea Canyon, the Na Pali Coast and Wailua Falls are all popular with visitors as well as offering a wide range of wtar based activities.

Crossing International Date Line

Suva (Fidji)

Suva is a multicultural city where we can find churches, mosques and temples. Suva outstands for the scenery, from the little bay the tourist can contemplate the high mountains. Suva has a strange architecture, mixture of the colonial past full of mansions and gardens, and the native constructions.

Waitangi (New Zealand)

Napier (New Zealand)

Napiuer is a portuary city located in the region of Hawke Bay in New Zealand. It is known as the world capital of Art Decó. After a 7,9 magnitude earthquake and the fires that came after, most part of the commercial area was destroyed in 1931. After that the city was reconstructed in the flamboyant style of Art Decó. The neat geometrical lines, the neon clocks and the iluminated fountains give Napier a look as of a movie set. Napier also has the most sun hours in the country, for this reason it is one of the main regions for wine in the country.

Picton (New Zealand)

picton is located in the region of Malbourough, on the north of South Island. It is the bridge city between both islands. It is a peaceful city, that has a marina and a park on the beach. The wide principal street is full of souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes, many with sea views. A relaxing walk down the marina and the coast will allow you to see the marvelous views. The Queen Charlotte Drive, the touristic train TranzCoastal, the fjords of Malborough, together with the diving, the navigation and the sighting of dolphins and sea lions, are some of the attractions of Picton.

Dunedin (New Zealand)

Dunedin is the largest city in the province of Otago, New Zealand. You can find endless beaches for the practice of surfing or diving.

Milford Sound (New Zealand)

Renowned as the most famous attractions in New Zealand, Milford Sound is a fjord located in the southwest on the Southern Island of New Zealand. Found in the Fiordland National Park, within the Wahipounamu World Heritage site, Rudyard Kipling called Milford Sound the 8th wonder of the world. An underwater observatory offers visitors the chance to observe the black coral, which usually only found in deep water, as well as a wide variety of marine life. With its awe inspiring views and landscape, Milford Sound offers incredible hiking and kayaking or take the chance to visit the breathtaking Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls and watch the dolphins, seals, and penguins.

Sydney (Australia)

Sydney is known as the Harbour City. It is the largest, oldest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia and one of the world´s most beautiful and liveable cities. Brimming with history, nature, culture, art, fashion, cuisine, design, it is set next to miles of ocean coastline and sandy surf beaches. Recent immigration trends have led to the cities reputation as one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse cities in Australia and the world. The city is also home to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, two of the most iconic structures on the planet. The city is surrounded by nature and national parks, which extend through the suburbs and right to the shores of the harbour.

Melbourne (Australia)

Melbourne is Australia´s cultural capital, with Victorian-era architecture, extensive shopping, museums, galleries, theatres, and large parks and gardens. Its 4-million residents are both multicultural and sport enthusiasts. Al fresco eateries, one-off shops and cozy little bars all nestle side-by-side in laneways threading throughout the city. Each arcade has its own individual character and charm. Melbourne is often called the cultural capital of Australia, with its many art galleries, film festivals, orchestras, choral and opera productions, vibrant live music scene, and a strong food, wine and coffee culture. Melbourne, known as the Kulin Nation to its traditional owners, has many galleries and museums with an Aboriginal or Indigenous focus, including the Koorie Heritage Trust.

Perth (Australia)

Perth is located to the west of Australia and is the state of Western Australia. During the visit to the city we can find a lot of cultural activity and many attractions, specially in the centre. the panoramic views of Perth and the Swan River, visit King Park and the botanical garden, are some of the places we can visit. You will love it!

Port Louis (Mauritius)

Capital and principal port of mauritius, Port Louis was founded by the french governor Francois Mahe de La Bourdonnais in 1735. The land extends up to the foot of the mountains that protect the city forming arround it a circumference. The city, nowadays city centre of the financial activities, is very attractive and the historical monuments are the proove of the past. The city of the artists has to be discovered.

Cape Town (South Africa)

Cape Town is the second-most populated city in South Africa after Johannesburg. The city has several well-known natural features that attract tourists, most notably Table Mountain,which forms a large part of the Table Mountain National Park and is the back end of the City Bowl. Cape Point is recognised as the dramatic headland at the end of the Cape Peninsula.Many tourists also drive along Chapman's Peak Drive, a narrow road that links Noordhoek with Hout Bay, for the views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby mountains. The city has several notable cultural attractions. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, built on top of part of the docks of the Port.

Cape Town (South Africa)

Cape Town is the second-most populated city in South Africa after Johannesburg. The city has several well-known natural features that attract tourists, most notably Table Mountain,which forms a large part of the Table Mountain National Park and is the back end of the City Bowl. Cape Point is recognised as the dramatic headland at the end of the Cape Peninsula.Many tourists also drive along Chapman's Peak Drive, a narrow road that links Noordhoek with Hout Bay, for the views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby mountains. The city has several notable cultural attractions. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, built on top of part of the docks of the Port.

Walvis Bay (Namibia)

Walvis Bay meaning "Whale Bay" is a city in Namibia and the name of the bay on which it lies The bay has been a haven for sea vessels because of its natural deepwater harbour, protected by the Pelican Point sand spit, being the only natural harbour of any size along the country's coast. Being rich in plankton and marine life, these waters also drew large numbers of whales, attracting whalers and fishing vessels. The harbour's value in relation to the sea route around the Cape of Good Hope. The town is situated just north of the Tropic of Capricorn in the Kuiseb River delta and lies at the end of the TransNamib Railway to Windhoek, and on the B2 road. Walvis Bay, with its large bay and sand dunes, is the tourism activity centre of Namibia. Other attractions include the artificial Bird Island, centre of a guano collection industry, the Dune 7 sand dune, salt works, birdlife and a museum. Kuisebmund Stadium, home to two clubs in the Namibia Premier League, is also located in the city and the beach resort of Langstrand lies just a few kilometres north. The Walvis Bay Export Processing Zone is an important facet of the local

Mindelo (Cape Verde)

Found on the island of Sao Vicente, Mindelo is regarded as Cape Verdes liveliest and most beautiful city. The cultural center of the Capr Verde islands, The island boasts barren yet spectacular volcanic landscapes bordered by white sand beaches and crytal clear waters. Mindelo is a picturesque town lined with cobbled streets that lead onto wide palm tree laden avenues, colourful buildings and architecture from the Portuguese and British colonial era. Home to carnivals and festivals, it also boasts vibrant nightlife with a wealth of cafes, pubs, restaurants and nightclubs. The distinctive and beautiful Morna music is a trademark of Mindelo and Cape Verde. The bay, Porto Grande, has also been classified by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful in the world

Funchal (Madeira)

The city´s name comes from the abundance of fennel (funcho) found on the island. It was an important shipping center during the 15th-17th centuries. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. It is a modern, cosmopolitan, rejuvenated city, well known for its many top class restaurants, stunning new 4 & 5 star hotels and warm climate all year round. The city itself is nestled in a great natural amphitheatre, facing the blue Atlantic with a backdrop of dramatic mountains. It is located in the stunning south of Madeira, on it’s sunniest coast amidst banana plantations and wonderful gardens. Funchal has also for many years been one of the Atlantic Cruise-ship’s main ports of call, with the Liner harbour right in the middle of the town. Once ashore, the cafés, restaurants and history that mark this famed capital are just a stroll away. Tourists in Funchal can also enjoy activities such as diving in the crystal-clear waters, surfing the waves, taking day excursions along the coast and through the eucalyptus smelling mountain woods.

Gibraltar

It is a small British colony in southern Spain. The population is about 29,000 inhabitants in an area of 2.6 square miles. It is also a naval base of the British Armed Forces. Most interesting things are the Rock of Gibraltar, the famous rock monkeys,the dolphins and the main shopping streets.

Syracuse (Sicily)

Syracuse, one of the smallest cities in Sicily, is one of the most interesting and popular destinations and is a great destination for a day trip or a week-long holiday. Sunny weather, beautiful landscapes and oceanviews and ancient Greek archeological attractions provide plenty of entertainment for all types of travelers.

Athens (Piraeus)

Athens, the capital city of Greece is an active cosmopolitan mix of different cultures and people, passionate about their art and history. The climate is one of the best in Europe, with mild winters and very hot summers, ideal for tourism. It is located just a few miles from the port of Piraeus, the central commercial port of the capital, and the shores of southern Attica. The main attractions of Athens are The Ancient Agora, Anafiotika, The Acropolis, Mount Lycabettus, Thiseion Cinema, Gazi, Monastiraki Flea Market, Pireaus seaside, Pireaus open air market, Kastella Hill, Veakio open air theatre and Piraeus Archaeological.

Volos (Greece)

We arrive at Volos to awaken all our senses with the view of Meteora, a place wher numerous dark rock mountains, narrow and high, rise perpendicularto the ground. On some of those amazing rocks we see monasterys constructed during the 14th century and finished in the 16th century. With the time stairs have been constructed and bridges to access to those buildings. They are inhabited by monks and nuns, dedicated to the prayers and the paintings of the religious icons.

Patmos (Greece)

Patmos is a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea. It has great natural beauty and is crowned by an impressive medieval monastery. The apostle John wrote the Apocalypse on the island. Grigos is the best beach with clear waters with blue only seen in the Mediterranean and the Aegean. In the city of Patmos, you will find endless streets with the seventeenth-century houses of gray stone, white walls neighborhoods and arches of gray stone

Kusadasi (Turkey)

With a mix of modern beach resorts alongside traditional bazaars, Kusadasi is a popular tourist destination on the Aegean coast in the Aydin Province of Turkey. Aside from its golden sandy beaches and warm clear waters, Kusadasi boasts a variety of attractions most famous of which is Ephesus, the Mediterranean’s best-preserved classical city. Marble pillars of the Library of Celsus support intricate friezes and sculptures, while the enormous theatre delivers superb views over the city. Visitors can also discover Kusadasi on horseback, swim with the horses at Pamucak Beach or take time to visit array of stalls and shops that comprise the local bazaar.

Rhodes

Rhodes is an island in Greece, located in the eastern Aegean Sea. It is located northeast of Crete, southeast of Athens and just off the Anatolian coast of Turkey. Historically, Rhodes was famous worldwide for the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The medieval Old Town of the City of Rhodes has been declared a World Heritage Site. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. From there you can access Lindos and its famous Acropolis which can be accessed on foot or by donkey.

Chania (Crete)

Chania , is the second largest city of Crete and the capital of the Chania regional unit. It lies along the north coast of the island, about 43 mi west of Rethymno and 90 mi west of Heraklion.Some notable sights include the Mosque of Djamissi; the remains of the Venetian "arsenali", where ships were once built and repaired; the Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas, the huge Municipal Market that connects to the new town at its opposite entrance; the marvellous Archaeological Museum occupying a 16th Century Venetian church; and many of the side streets filled with shops, craftsmen, and beautiful architecture.

Dubrovnik (Croatia)

Dubrovnik is situated on the Adriatic Sea coast in the extreme south of Croatia, at the terminal end of the Isthmus of Dubrovnik, Nerevta country. Places to visit: Lokrum is an island in front of Dubrovnik and because it takes only 15 minutes by ferry to get there from the Old Town it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Zaton, another place to find natural peace and beauty, it takes 20 minutes by bus to get from Dubrovnik to Zaton. Other tourist attractions are: Franciscan monastery, fortresses, Medieval walls encircling the city and Sponza palace.

Bar (Montenegro)

Taranto (Italy)

Crystal clear beaches, culture and archeology await you in the city of Taranto, located on the Ionian Coast of southern Italy, from where you can discover the best of Puglia. In the historic center and in the Archaeological Museum you can admire the Greek and Roman past of the city

Valletta (Malta)

Valletta is the capital of Malta, situated in the east central portion of Malta. It is the second southernmost capital of Europe. The city was officially recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980. The city is essentially Baroque in character, with elements of Mannerist, Neo Classical and Modern architecture in selected areas. The city consists of buildings from the 16th century onwards, built during the rule of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, also known as Knights Hospitaller. The official name given by the Order of Saint John was Humilissima Civitas - Valletta the Most Humble City of Valletta. The bastions, curtains along with the beauty of its Baroque palaces, gardens, and churches, led the ruling houses of Europe to give the city its nickname Superbissima - Most Proud. Valletta cruise port is stunning and the views from your ship of the harbour will blow you away. There’s lots to see and do in the immediate port area, and shuttle buses are sometimes provided to take you further into the city. A day of exploring here will not disappoint.

Civitavecchia (Rome)

 Civitavecchia is the city of Rome´s port on the Tyrrhenian Sea. The harbour is formed by two piers and a breakwater, on which is a lighthouse. The name Civitavecchia means Ancient Town. There, the Eternal City lies before us in large format architectural and artistic sculptures such as the Colosseum, the most important monument of ancient Rome and used for public entertainment. Do not miss the Trevi Fountain and make a wish while you throw a coin over your shoulder and then continue to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved monuments of antiquity, Piazza Navona, and the Vatican City. Take a walk through the Plaza of Spain and rest on the steps of Trinita dei Monti before heading to Via Condotti, a wide avenue lined with shops. Civitavecchia is always popular with cruise passengers because, as noted earlier, it is the gateway to Rome. All cruise lines tend to offer shore excursions here to the Eternal City and we highly recommend that you book one. 

Ajaccio (Corsica)

The capital of Corsica, Ajaccio lies in a calm bay on the west coast of Corsica, set against a backdrop of wooded hills. It is a relaxed rather than lively town and visitors come here to enjoy its wealth of cafes, restaurants and shops. The sights here mainly revolve around Napoleon, who was born here. The town's main sights are the magnificent cathedral where Napoleon was christened, the Bonaparte residence and numerous statues and street names related to his family. The peninsula carries the citadel and terminates in the Citadel jetty. To the south-west of this peninsula lies the Place Bonaparte, a quarter frequented chiefly by winter visitors attracted by the mild climate of the town. Apart from one or two fine thoroughfares converging on the Place Bonaparte, the streets are mean and narrow and the town has a deserted appearance. The house in which Napoleon Bonaparte was born in 1769 is preserved, and his associations with the town are everywhere emphasized by street-names and statues. The Musée Fesch, which contains the art collection of Napoleon's maternal uncle, Cardinal Fesch. The collection of Italian paintings is considered to rate second only to that of the Louvre

Livorno (Florence/Pisa)

Livorno is a port city on the Ligurian Sea on the western coast of Tuscany, Italy. It is the capital of the Province of Livorno. Places of Interest include the New Venice district, which retains much of its original town planning and architectural features such as the bridges, narrow lanes, the noblemen´s houses and a dense network of canals that once served to link its warehouses to the port. The Old English Cemetery is the oldest foreign Protestant burial ground in Italy. The Museo Mascagnano houses memorabilia, documents, and operas by the great composer Pietro Mascagni, who lived here. Every year some of his operas are traditionally played during the lyric music season, which is organised by the Traditional Theatre of Livorno. Also, the Terrazza Mascagni, a walkway divided from the sea by a handrail, is named in his honour. Up in the hills, the Sanctuary of Montenero, dedicated to Our Lady of Graces, the patron saint of Tuscany, is a destination for pilgrims. "Monument of the Four Moors", is dedicated to Grand Duke Ferdinando I de´ Medici of Tuscany and is one of the most important monuments of Livorno. The Piazza della Repubblica contains two important monuments of Italian politicians important to the unification. A large canal passes under the square, which serves as a bridge over it. The old red brick fortress was built during the Medici years and defended the city from attack by pirates. Livorno is also your gateway to the fascinating city of Pisa, where you can marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa and maybe even climb its steps to the top. 

Genoa (Italy)

Genoa is the capital of Liguria and the sixth largest city in Italy. Genoa is one of Europe's largest cities on the Mediterranean Sea and the largest seaport in Italy. Nicknamed the Superb One due to its glorious past and impressive landmarks. Part of the old town of Genoa was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city's rich art, music, gastronomy, architecture, and history allowed it to become the 2004 European Capital of Culture. It is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and it's waiting for you to discover everything it has to offer. This is a hugely popular embarkation and disembarkation port for many Western Mediterranean sailings, but other distant lands also await.

Villefranche (Nice)

Villefranche is a beautiful port in the Cote dAzure, near Nice. Villefranche is more than a disembarkation port, it is the example of a little village, elegant and exclusive of the Cote dAzure. A peaceful and distinguished place, with multicolores houses, charming corners and most of all tranquility and french good life. It is worth walking through the streets, have a taste of the local cuisine in the port restaurants, or visit the interesting monuments like the Saint Pierre Chapel, the Romanic Chapel of Jean Cocteau, Fort Saint Elmo, or the Dark Street. To continue the visit, nothing better than a quick getaway to Monaco, point of leisure par excellence, the city of glamor, one of the most visited places in the world. This city has three districts: City of Monaco, Condomine and Montecarlo, where the famous casino is found. The following places are of mandatory visit: The Grimaldi Palace, constructed on the Monaco Rock, the old part of the city, the Monaco Cathedral and the Opera.

Marseille (France)

Marseille is the second largest city in France, after Paris and is the third largest urban area and metropolitan area after Lyon. Marseille is the capital of the Provence Alpes Côte dAzur region, as well as the capital of the Bouches du Rhône department. The Quai des Belges at the end of the harbour is the site of the daily fish market. The Old Port or Vieux Port is the main harbour and marina of the city. It is guarded by two massive forts (Fort St Nicolas and Fort Saint Jean) and is one the main places to eat in the city. Things to see and do include the Old Port area, Abbey of Saint Victor, The Centre Bourse, and the adjacent Rue St Ferreol district, for the main shopping area, museums, and historical buildings. Marseille is always a popular cruise port because of its sheer beauty – it’s one of those cruise destinations that you’ll never forget.

Barcelona

The port of Barcelona was born about the same time as the city was. It is one of themost important ports in the Mediterranean, cruise ships leave the city to call on some of themost desirable cities in the Western Mediterranean. The port has modern facilities and allthe services needed to accommodate the many passengers who have Barcelona as anembarkation and a disembarkation port. Barcelona is one of the most cosmopolitan andmulticultural capitals of Europe. Among many attractions that include the Sagrada Familia,Montjuic, Gaudi's Güell Park and the famous Ramblas. It’s a hub of activity and the city isalways bustling.

Cadiz (Spain)

Cadiz is a city and port in southwestern Spain. The older part of Cadiz within the remnants of the city walls is commonly referred to as the Old Town It is characterized by the antiquity of its various quarters, among them El Pópulo, La Viña, and Santa María, which present a marked contrast to the newer areas of town. While the Old City's street plan consists of narrow winding alleys connecting large plazas, newer areas of Cadiz typically have wide avenues and more modern buildings. In addition, the city is dotted with numerous parks where exotic plants flourish, including giant trees supposedly brought to Spain by Columbus from the New World. Cadiz, situated on a peninsula, is home to some of Spain's most beautiful beaches. La Playa de la Caleta is the best-loved beach of Cadiz. It has always been in Carnival songs, due to its unequalled beauty and its proximity to the Barrio de la Viña. It is the beach of the Old City, situated between two castles, San Sebastian and Santa Catalina. La Caleta and the boulevard show a lot of resemblance to parts of Havana, the capital city of Cuba,

Casablanca (Morocco)

Casablanca is the largest city of Morocco, situated in western Morocco on the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the largest and most important cities in Africa. Casablanca is also Moroccos chief port and industrial centre. Casablanca is like any other European city and the most liberal and progressive of Moroccos cities. Most of the streets have signs, and passersby are extremely helpful in French or Arabic and, more rarely, Spanish or English. Young men flirt brazenly with scantily clad women, designer labels are the norm in the chic, beach front neighbourhood of Ain Diab and many young Moroccans speak to each other exclusively in French. The Medina historic district can be hard to navigate, but its so small that no matter how blindly you wander into it, youre never more than ten minutes from an exit. Places to visit: the Medina historic district, the Corniche, Octagon Square, the Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman, the Mosque Hassan II, the largest in North Africa, and the third largest in the world.

Arrecife (Lanzarote)

Arrecife open the doors of Lanzarote, an island full of underwater views and spots, transparent waters, and palm trees. the natural park of Timanfaya is the most representative of the island, and you will see how the volcanic lava swept all the land. A good example of this is Los Jameos del Agua, spectacular volcanic cave in which interior lies a natural lake of transparent waters inhibiten by blind albino crabs, from unknown origin. You can also visit the beaches of Famara or Papagayo.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the largest cities in Spain, and is the largest city in the Canary Islands The Port of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria receives ships from all over the world. As a beach town, Las Palmas is specially popular for ocean-side activities. Catch a wave, grab your snorkel, or just soak up some sun. The south of the island is hot, dry, relatively arid and home to brash new resorts such as Playa del Inglés. The north and centre of the island is cooler, wetter, and retains more of a Spanish colonial atmosphere. The dramatic lush interior features spectacular volcanic peaks. The capital of Las Palmas functions as a bustling cosmopolitan city and a popular seaside. Those arriving by cruise ship can appreciate the island´s spectacular setting between two bays as they sail into the biggest port in Spanish territory. Most of the island´s top sights are in the north, situated within 30 minutes or so of Las Palmas. However, Las Palmas itself has a variety of first-class attractions plus an excellent golden beach, Playa de las Canteras, which is a 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal (as is the city centre).

Fort Lauderdale (Florida)

Fort Lauderdale is a city in the U.S. state of Florida, and located between the cities of Miami and Palm Beach. The city is a popular tourist destination, sometimes known as the Venice of Americabecause of its expansive and intricate canal system. It is a very popular destination. Seventh largest city in the state of Florida, has an attractive climate for tourism and business, a condition that is leading to become a hub for international business

Cartagena de Indias (Colombia)

Cartagena or cartagena de Indias is a city surrounded by the Caribbean sea. The port has one of the strongest forts in South America. An area system divides the city in three neighbourhoods: San Pedro with the Cathedral and many andalusian style palaces, San Diego where the merchants and the petite-bourgeoisie lived and Gethsemani, the most popular neighborhood. Cartagena offers the tourists ancient forts, palaces and churches. It is a walled town filled with exquisite Spanish 16th and 17th century architecture. You can visit beaches, excellent restaurants, practise snorkeling and scuba diving in the reefs, or enjoy the day doing great shopping.

Panama Canal

The interest of establishing a short route from the Atlantic to the Pacific seas started with the explorers of central america at the beginning od the XVI century. The conqueror of Mexico, Hernan Cortes, suggested the construction of a canal through the isthmus of Tehuantepec. During the years they made a few attempts and projects, but all were neglected or forgotten. Fernando de Lesseps, constructor of the Suez Canal started building it but for economical and political reasons the project failed. Finally the United States took over the company in charge. The construction of the Panama Canal was one of the biggest engineering projects of all times. It was calculated that it would be completed in ten years; although in the summer of 1914 before provisions, it started to work. The construction involved not only the excavation of approximately 143 million m3 of earth, but also the entire sanitation of the canal zone (that was infested of mosquitos that spreaded malaria and yellow fever). The sanitation was done by the medical department of the United States Army, which nearly completely eradicated the diseases. The final cost of the canal was 336 million dolars. Panama has the control of the canal and complete sovereignty of the calle Canal Zone, since the 31st of december 1999.

Puntarenas (Costa Rica)

Puntarenas (Pointsands, from "punta arenas", or "sand point" in Spanish) is the capital and largest city in the province Puntarenas, Costa Rica, at the Pacific coast. The eponymous and oddly shaped province has its largest section in the South, far from the capital. Some 100,000 live in the city and close towns. With beaches on the Pacific Ocean, it also attracts many tourists, especially surfers. It is also a possible stopover point for the tourist destination Monteverde, to the northwest. Its port, Caldera, is one of the main ports in the country. Also, regularly scheduled ferries carry vehicles from Puntarenas to the Nicoya Peninsula.

Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala)

Puerto Quetzal is Guatemalas largest Pacific Ocean port. It is located in Escuintla department, alongside the city of Puerto San José.The area around Puerto Quetzal is supposed to have some of the nicest beaches in all of Guatemala. About three miles west is Balneario Chulamar, and three miles to the east is Balneario Likín, a popular Guatemalan resort town. Bird watching and surfing are also popular pastimes in and around Puerto Quetzal. ´There are various tours available that take passengers to La Antigua, Auto Safari Chapin zoo, La Reunion world class golf resort, and other various tour packages are offered specially created for cruise passengers. At the port there is a market selling lots of crafts and souvenir items for those who choose not to take any tours inland. There is also several bars, hammocks to relax in, a restaurant, and performances from Marimba bands. The nearest town, San Jose, is about a mile away. Cruise lines list this as the port for La Antigua Guatemala, which is approximately 90 minutes away by bus.

Puerto Vallarta (Mexico)

Puerto Vallarta is a Mexican balneario resort city situated on the Pacific Ocean's Bahía de Banderas. Puerto Vallarta is the place for natural beauty of the ocean and hills and the warmth of the people. Things to do: listen to the the Mariachi music, see the colorful, swirling traditional dresses, the manly horsemen, and try the most popular drink, the tequila

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the largest city in California and the second-largest urban area in the nation. It is located in the southern part of the state on the Pacific Ocean. It is a favorite vacation destination and attracts millions of tourists to the area each year from all over the world. Apart from the movie studios, points of interest include the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the La Brea Tar Pits (famous for Ice Age fossils), Disneyland (Anaheim), and the Santa Anita and Hollywood racetracks. Today, Hollywood is a part of Los Angeles.