Shadow, Voyage S210428012 ex Lisbon to Barcelona – 28 Apr 2021

Lead Pricing

VI - Suite CV - Suite SV - Suite DX - Suite
AU $10,300
per person
AU $12,600
per person
AU $13,200
per person
AU $13,800
per person

Please select your preferred category and cabin configuration/price. Then scroll down and select Continue to provide your contact details and preference. Our cruise specialists will check availability and respond to you as soon as possible.

Category Twin Per Person     Single Per Person
VI - Vista Suite
   
CV - Classic Veranda Suite (From 04 Dec 2020)
   
SV - Superior Veranda Suite (From 04 Dec 2020)
   
DX - Deluxe Veranda Suite (From 04 Dec 2020)
   
ME - Medallion Suite
   
SL - Silver Suite
   
R1 - Royal 1 Bedroom Suite
   
G1 - Grand 1 Bedroom Suite
   
R2 - Royal 2 Bedroom Suite
   

Please select your preferred category and cabin configuration/price. Then scroll down and select Continue to provide your contact details and preference. Our cruise specialists will check availability and respond to you as soon as possible.

Art inspires. Awakens your emotions and stimulates your thoughts.

In the quiet calm of morning, your private veranda becomes a place of true inspiration. Surrounded by the magnificence of the dawning day, at one with the vista of sea and sky, in awe of nature and the vast beauty of this world. The shoreline of the next port slides closer and closer into view, and with it an undeniable anticipation of things to come and the promise of limitless possibilities.

Silversea creates exceptional ocean journeys with unique opportunities to explore remote ports-of-call from an intimate haven of incomparable luxury, each voyage a unique masterpiece. Discover genuine European expertise reflected in every detail, from our tranquil all-suite accommodation and uncompromising service to distinctive fine dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy.

Our guests hail from across the globe, yet share an appreciation for the spectrum of choice offered in Silversea’s array of exotic destinations and exclusive explorations ashore. By blending these elements together with enrichment experiences, each new port becomes more than a destination, it becomes a state of mind, transcending the traditional concepts of cruising. It is this distinction that has earned Silversea the reputation of World’s Best.

ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE

COMPLIMENTARY BEVERAGES SERVED THROUGHOUT THE SHIP An extensive selection of fine wines, champagne, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks are yours to enjoy — all courtesy of Silversea.

IN-SUITE BEVERAGE CABINET STOCKED WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that awaits you, every suite features a beverage cabinet stocked with your preferred assortment of complimentary beverages.

COMPLIMENTARY IN-SUITE DINING AND 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE A formal dinner served course-by-course, a late-night snack, or a full breakfast delivered at your request — with no charge and no tipping.

COMPLIMENTARY SILVERSEA EXPERIENCE® A shoreside event exclusively for Silversea guests on select voyages. Recent outings have included dinner in the desert in Namibia and a concert at the ruins of Ephesus.

A FULL SPECTRUM OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENRICHMENT Production shows, classical concerts, and folkloric performances. Multi-tiered show lounge. Lectures by world affairs experts, renowned authors and destination specialists.

COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION INTO TOWN Roundtrip transportation from the pier to the heart of town in most ports of call.

Silversea … The art of travel. The art of good living.

A quiet sanctuary. The sitting area of the Vista Suite has plenty of room to relax. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.

The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed.

One bedroom: 287 ft² / 27m²

Features
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)

The Classic Veranda Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located lower bow, the Classic Veranda Suite offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard — both inside and out. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.

Located on the upper deck, and offering spectacular sunset views, the Superior Veranda Suite has all the comforts and luxury that you can expect aboard. A comfortable living space, attention to detail and a generous expanse of amenities, this stunning suite makes for a cosy home while on the seas. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.

One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32 m² including veranda

The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers a comfortable living space, close to the heart of the ship. With its preferred mid-ship location and all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard, the Deluxe Veranda Suite is the savvy traveller’s paradise— both inside and out. Elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.

One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32 m² including veranda

A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.

One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda

Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)

A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.

One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda

Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)

A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.

One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda

Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)

A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.

One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda

Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)

A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury.
An extravagant suite for an extravagant cruise.

One bedroom: 521 ft² / 49m² including veranda

Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room with sitting area and dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at Officer’s Table

Stylish and sophisticated. Separate dining and living rooms. Larger verandas. Situated midship.

Perfection in design for comfortable living.

Silver Suites accommodate three guests.

One bedroom: 653–701 ft² / 61–65m² including veranda

Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, full-sized bath and separate shower
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso Machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Laundry service throughout the voyage

Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.

One bedroom: 967–1,007 sq ft / 90–94m2 including veranda (110–116 sq ft / 10–11m2)

Suite Features:

*Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors

*Living room with sitting area

*Twin beds or queen-sized bed

*Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room

*Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe

*Vanity table(s) with hair dryer

*Writing desk(s)

*Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception

*Bang & Olufsen audio system

*Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station

*Direct-dial telephone(s)

Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Silversea Veranda Suite.

One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda

SUITE FEATURES:


Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content

The name Owner’s Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.

One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda

SUITE FEATURES:


Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content

Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.

Available as two-bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.

Two bedroom: 1,312–1,352 sq ft / 122–126m2 including veranda (170–176 sq ft / 16–17m2)

Suite Features:

*Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; two-bedroom has additional veranda

*Living room with sitting area; two-bedroom has additional sitting area

*Separate dining area and bar

*Twin beds or queen-sized bed; two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed

*Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath

*Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe

*Vanity table(s) with hair dryer

*Writing desk(s)

*Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception

*Bang & Olufsen audio system

*Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station

*Direct-dial telephone(s)

Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”.

Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Silversea Veranda Suite.

One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda

Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda

Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content

The name Owners Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.

One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda

Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda

Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content

Silver Shadow - Deck 4

Silver Shadow - Deck 4 (From Dec 2018)

Silver Shadow - Deck 5

Silver Shadow - Deck 5 (From Dec 2018)

Silver Shadow - Deck 6

Silver Shadow - Deck 6 (From Dec 2018)

Silver Shadow - Deck 7

Silver Shadow - Deck 7 (From Dec 2018)

Silver Shadow - Deck 8

Silver Shadow - Deck 8 (From Dec 2018)

Silver Shadow - Deck 9

Silver Shadow - Deck 9 (From Dec 2018)

Silver Shadow - Deck 10

Silver Shadow - Deck 10 (From Dec 2018)

Authentic experiences. Simple pleasures. Shared moments. Silversea’s Millennium Class luxury cruise ships Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper offer you freedom and space to design your day. Slightly larger in size than ships Silver Cloud and Silver Wind, Silver Shadow retains Silversea’s essence – spacious suites, a complement of only 382 guests, superior service – paired with a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere and enhanced amenities. Aboard the Silver Shadow, energize body and soul with complimentary Pilates and yoga in the expanded fitness center. Savor fine wines and regional culinary creations in Le Champagne, the only Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux at sea. Or simply gaze at endless ocean views. Relish, relax, recharge … repeat … Silver Shadow.

Ship Profile & Stats

  • Length: 610 Feet
  • Tonnage: 28,258 tonnes
  • Maiden Voyage: 2000
  • Refurbished: 2017
  • Passenger Capacity (dbl): 382
  • Crew Nationality: International
  • Officer Nationality: European
  • Dining Staff Nationality: International
  • Ship Registration: Bahamas

Ship Facilities

  • Jogging Track
  • Pool Bar
  • Fitness Centre
  • Beauty Salon
  • The Panorama Lounge
  • Internet Cafe
  • The Pool Grill
  • Observation Bar
  • Lifts
  • The Spa at Silversea
  • Swimming Pool
  • The Library
  • La Terrazza
  • La Dame
  • The Connoisseur’s Corner
  • Conference / Card Room
  • The Show Lounge
  • Casino
  • The Bar
  • Shopping Boutiques
  • The Show Lounge
  • The Restaurant


Cruise Itinerary

DateActivityArriveDepart
28 Apr '21
Lisbon, Portugal
07:00 PM
29 Apr '21 At sea    
30 Apr '21
Funchal (Madeira), Portugal
08:00 AM overnight
01 May '21
Funchal (Madeira), Portugal
02:00 PM
02 May '21
San Sebastian, La Gomera, Canary Islands
09:00 AM 06:00 PM
03 May '21
Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Canary Islands
08:00 AM 11:00 PM
04 May '21
Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
08:00 AM 11:59 PM
05 May '21 At sea    
06 May '21
Casablanca, Morocco
07:00 AM 06:00 PM
07 May '21
Cadiz, Spain
08:00 AM 08:00 PM
08 May '21 At sea    
09 May '21
Palma, Majorca. SP
08:00 AM 06:00 PM
10 May '21
Barcelona, Spain
07:00 AM

All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.

12 Night Cruise sailing from Lisbon to Barcelona onboard Silver Shadow.

Meander through the Med and wander through cobbled streets, bask on sun filled terraces and savour delicious local cuisine. An overnight in Madeira gives you a chance to sample the eponymous wine, while the Canaries, Casablanca and Cadiz add a splash of colour to your cruise. Palma’s pretty streets come next, before Spain’s capital of cool – Barcelona – calls you home.

Highlights of this cruise:

Lisbon, Portugal
Spread over a string of seven hills north of the Rio Tejo (Tagus River) estuary, Lisbon presents an intriguing variety of faces to those who negotiate its switchback streets. In the oldest neighborhoods, stepped alleys whose street pattern dates back to Moorish times are lined with pastel-color houses decked with laundry; here and there, miradouros (vantage points) afford spectacular river or city views. In the grand 18th-century center, calçada à portuguesa (black-and-white mosaic cobblestone) sidewalks border wide boulevards.

Funchal Madeira, Portugal
When colonists arrived in Madeira in July 1419, the valley they settled was a mass of bright yellow fennel, or funchal in Portuguese. Today the bucolic fields are gone, and the community that replaced them is the self-governing island’s bustling business and political center. Funchal is the only town of any size on the island and the base for the the bulk of its tourism thanks to the plethora of hotels, restaurants, bars, cafés, phenomenal coastal and hillside views, and—of course—Madeira wine.Despite the tropical vegetation, Funchal’s center feels decidedly Portuguese, though there’s a heavy British influence, which is a holdover from the mid-16th-century marriage of the Portuguese princess Catherine of Bragança to England’s King Charles II. The marriage contract gave the English the right to live on Madeira, plus valuable trade concessions. Charles in turn gave Madeirans an exclusive franchise to sell wine to England and its colonies.

Canary Islands (Las Palmas), Spain
Las Palmas is a long, sprawling city, strung out for 10 km (6 miles) along two waterfronts of a peninsula. Though most of the action centers on the peninsula’s northern end along the lovely Las Canteras beach, the sights are clustered around the city’s southern edge. Begin in the old quarter, La Vegueta, at the Plaza Santa Ana (don’t miss the bronze dog statues), for a tour of interesting colonial architecture. Then make your way into the neighboring quarter of Triana, a treasure trove of small shops and cafés and restaurants. It’s quite a walk from one end of town to the other, so at any point you may want to hop one of the many canary-yellow buses. Buses 1, 2 and 3 run the length of the city.

Casablanca, Morocco
Casablanca is Morocco’s most modern city, and various groups of people call it home: hardworking Berbers who came north from the Souss Valley to make their fortune; older folks raised on French customs during the protectorate; devoted Muslims; wealthy business executives in the prestigious neighborhoods of California and Anfa; new and poor arrivals from the countryside, living in conspicuous shantytowns; and thousands of others from all over the kingdom who have found jobs here. There is also a fair-size expat population, including many French people. The city has its own stock exchange, and working hours tend to transcend the relaxed pace kept by the rest of Morocco.True to its name—casa blanca in Spanish (white house), which, in turn, is Dar el-Beida in Arabic—Casablanca is a conglomeration of white buildings. The present city, known colloquially as “Casa” or “El Beida,” was only founded in 1912. It lacks the abundance of ancient monuments that resonate in Morocco’s other major cities; however, there are still some landmarks, including the famous Hassan II Mosque.

Cadiz, Spain
With the Atlantic Ocean on three sides, Cádiz is a bustling town that’s been shaped by a variety of cultures, and has the varied architecture to prove it. Founded as Gadir by Phoenician traders in 1100 BC, Cádiz claims to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Western world. Hannibal lived in Cádiz for a time, Julius Caesar first held public office here, and Columbus set out from here on his second voyage, after which the city became the home base of the Spanish fleet.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain
If you look north of the cathedral (La Seu, or the seat of the bishopric, to Mallorcans) on a map of the city of Palma, you can see around the Plaça Santa Eulàlia a jumble of tiny streets that made up the earliest settlement. Farther out, a ring of wide boulevards traces the fortifications built by the Moors to defend the larger city that emerged by the 12th century. The zigzags mark the bastions that jutted out at regular intervals. By the end of the 19th century, most of the walls had been demolished; the only place where you can still see the massive defenses is at Ses Voltes, along the seafront west of the cathedral.A torrent (streambed) used to run through the middle of the old city, dry for most of the year but often a raging flood in the rainy season. In the 17th century it was diverted to the east, along the moat that ran outside the city walls.

Barcelona, Spain
The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches.

vid: 4769 | cfid: 84393-cruise

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