Destination Guides

Egypt is celebrating The Return of the Tourist. No, we're not talking about the anticipated Star Wars film (That's got the equally cheesy title of 'The Force Awakens'), but instead the news that people are once more flooding to the country to discover its incredible cultural heritage. 

To celebrate, we're showcasing some of the Nile's most wonderful treasures – the list of absolute must-see sights that you simply won't want to miss on a journey to the land of the Pharaohs and pyramids. They're all included on our spectacular 10 Night Nile Grand Tour, a cruising experience that will stay with you until the rest of your life.

Cairo

The tourist numbers that we're all excited about specifically concern Cairo, so it feels only natural that we should start with this incredible multi layered city. With its twisting passages and various monuments, fascinating museums and dozens of street markets, you will be hard-pushed to find a more intricate city anywhere. On your day of leisure exploring the metropolis, you might want to do a variety of things, including visit the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Salah ad-Din or the surprisingly green and verdant Al-Azhar Park. Further – just on the edge of the city, you'll find some of the must-see Egyptian wonders. Step forward, the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. One thing is certain – you won't find it difficult to fill your time here.

Luxor

It should be compulsory to visit Luxor if you're in Egypt. And indeed, many people do venture to this incredible collection of incredible buildings that includes various monuments, temples and tombs. The most notable of these are the Luxor Temple and Karnak, arguably the most spectacular structures in Egypt. Also awe inspiring are the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, the Royal tombs located on the opposite bank. There's a lot to explore, and the best way to do it in comfort and style is on a Nile cruise.

Lake Nasser

Egypt is a nation of wonders that are both modern and ancient. Lake Nasser is one of the former types of creation. This extraordinary man made reservoir is more than 500 kilometres long and 35 kilometres wide, and plays host to the Aswan High Dam complex. A visit here includes a visit to the famed Abu Simbel temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which were relocated in their entirety in 1968 to make way for the lake. Not, of course, that you would know it just by looking. The Nubian statues here include colossal structures featuring Ramesses II, Ra-Harakhty, Ptah and Amun. Much of it is open to the public.

Kom Ombo

The agricultural town of Kom Ombo was originally called Nubt, which means 'City of Gold'. And what a heritage the ancients bequeathed to it! The local temple – the Temple of Kom Ombo – is an unusual double temple constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty. Wandering around, you'll find it is dedicated to two gods rather than one, hence the term 'double temple'. One half worships the falcon god Horus, who was worshipped as one of the most significant deities. And the other is concerned with the crocodile god Sobek, who was responsible for fertility. Visiting this temple is therefore a unique and fascinating experience unlike any other.

Few destinations are as beguiling, as enigmatic and as downright gorgeous as Cuba. Boasting more than its fair share of secluded coves and attractive beaches, this island paradise is a joy to experience. And since it's just getting ready for its peak tourist season, we thought it was time we introduced you to this spectacular part of the world.

Aboard one of our superb vessels, you will be privileged enough to witness landscapes that look as though they belong in fairy tales. The secluded coves, for example, encroached as they are with woodland and bordering on smooth sandy beaches, could be the ones in Neverland in JM Barrie's Peter Pan. Perhaps there are Lost Boys hiding on the shores? Our crews know Cuba intimately and if you want to glean a little knowledge about the island, they are the people to ask. But first, you actually need to book yourself onto one of our cruises. Take a look below at the available options.

Seven Nights Tall Ship

Cuba is in the Caribbean, and what better way to explore the island than on a vessel that Captain Jack Sparrow would be proud of? Admittedly, we can't promise bottomless barrels of rum, but the experience of sailing on our splendid Star Flyer with its four masts, 21 sails and pair of pools is utterly unbeatable. You have all the facilities you could ever need, including a stunning sundeck with three swimming pools, a stylish piano bar and full air conditioning.

This is impressive, but is as yet nothing compared to the itinerary itself. The journey starts in Cienfuegos – a regular Tortuga-like settlement full of charming neo-classical homes and elegant public buildings that line the Prado. From here, you sail to Cayo Blanco, which advertises everything a beach lover could possibly want. Everlasting white sands, clear blue skies and lush vegetation. Once you've finished lazing around, it's time to get cultural with a trip to the sugar mills in Trinidad. Walk between the 17th and 18th centuries, exploring time as well as space. The town itself is also gorgeous, paved with cobblestones and boasting incredible buildings.

Your trip will take you through the Caymen Islands – an archipelago that stretches for 100 miles with more than 350 islands of all shapes and sizes. You won't want to stop exploring and you'll be sorry to return to Cienfuegos for a last spot of gift shopping before the journey home.

Cuba Dream

The Cuba Dream experience takes place aboard one of our comfortable catamarans, which are perfect vessels for those keen to focus more on the destination itself. If you know you spend a lot of time exploring the holiday location, then this is most definitely for you. There are two actual catamarans available for your trip – the Dream 60 and the Poncin 82.

Exploring the Cuba Dream itinerary is a wildlife extravaganza. Setting sail from Cienfuegos and experiencing Cayo Rico, Cayo Largo, Cayo Estopa and other gorgeous island locations, you will adore sailing from one stunning cove to the next, with plenty of opportunity to check out local creatures. Snorkeling in Reef Ballanetos is a particularly invigorating experience, with all manner of tropical fish to witness as you plunge towards the depths. Other creatures you might meet on your journey include sea turtles and iguanas, making this a really menagerie of a trip.

Sights and Sounds of Cuba

The title of this cruise is reflective of the aim – to show you more of what Cuba's all about. To introduce you to its rich cultural diversity and allow you a glimpse into its incredible history. Aboard the Sailing Cruiser Panorama, you will have access to a spacious sun deck and sun loungers, as well as a private yacht-style ambiance aboard a large enough vessel capable of giving you complete comfort. Take to the sea with kayaks, snorkeling and windsurfing equipment. For although this is a cultural trip, there will still be plenty of time to relax and do your own thing – just as there should be on holiday.

Between the two destinations Havana and Cienfuegos, you'll have the opportunity to stop off at some truly inspiring places. Cabo San Antonio, for example, is renowned for having an extensive nature park that contains all sorts of animals not easily found outside of Cuba. Then there is Trinidad – a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains palaces and plazas amid its gorgeous cobblestone streets. You can explore the history of sugar farming with a visit to the Sugarmills Valley, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Jetting from island to island, you will also have the opportunity to learn about what daily life is like in rural Cuba – a place far removed from our own culture.

No matter which trip to Cuba you choose to take, there is a truly unique sense around this special place. You're in for the time of your life and the best way to experience all its facets is on a Seafarer journey. Pick whichever one sounds best to you and come with us.

As ever the clocks have fallen back – or at least they have for the last 98 years. Germany was the first place to put the clocks forward and back in 1916 in an effort to save energy during the First World War. The UK followed suit. Not that it mattered in the trenches. These days it is widely seen as a safety measure. There has even been talk of double daylight saving as a boost to the UK tourist industry.

Which is all very well but the question is if we have British Summer Time why don’t we call the bit where the clocks go back ‘British Winter Time’? There’s something quintessentially romantic about a British winter. Dew on the grass, breath steaming in the morning air, wrapping up warm for a walk down the pub for a glass of wine beside a log fire – what’s not to like? In comparison Greenwich Mean Time just sounds, well, mean!

Sometimes it’s best to un-wrap-up-warm

Then again there may be only so much wrapping-up warm a person can take. Whilst being toasty in coats and boots and scarves and hats is OK on bright sun-shining December Sundays it’s always not so pleasant when it’s lashing down with rain on your average January Monday and the festive spirit is just a ghost of Christmas past. That’s the time to think of un-wrapping-up warm for a week or 10 days where the sun is shining – and that of course is the quintessential beauty of cruising.

Has it ever occurred to you that there is no daylight saving in places like the tropics? The fact is that around the equator the sun pretty much rises at 6.00 in the morning and sets at 6.00 in the evening. The important word here is ‘sun’ – because in the tropics there is plenty of it on a year round basis.

Get a little bit of luxury-on-sea

The other thing of course is that all that going to work in the dark and coming home in the dark means that many of us get a touch of the winter blues. In fact scientists now recognise that levels of low sunlight can have a definite effect on the body’s chemistry. Without doubt the best way to rectify the situation is a large dose of sunshine and some serious TLC.

And that means a winter cruise! Whether you’re on a big ship, a mega yacht or a stylish catamaran nobody can deny that cruising in its many and varied forms offers more than just a little bit of luxury. All you have to do is simply lay back and enjoy yourself whilst somebody else moves the scenery every day.

If we haven’t persuaded you yet then call 0208 324 3116

We have a website full of winter cruising opportunities ranging from the coasts of Cuba, through the Panama Canal and Costa Rica, and right around the world to the Seychelles. Our tam of cruising experts likes nothing more than to get on the end of a phone and talk cruising – well it cheers them up these dark winter days! So give us a call and let us take you away from it all for a while.

Or check out www.seafarercruises.com – if you can’t get away over winter you’ll find details of our Sumer 2015 cruises too.

Some people like to use their holiday time to toast themselves on a beach until they're relaxed and as brown as an old leather sofa. Others like to go striding around historic monuments and lush rainforests, seeking out the most cultural and educational aspects of a particular destination. There is, of course, a happy medium between these two extremes, and we at Seafarer embrace it wherever possible, filling our itineraries with plenty of opportunities to explore and relax in equal measure. However, some destinations lend themselves to balance more than others. Take a look at our favourite locations for those who love variety.

Greece

The Greek tourism industry is currently riding on a wave of seemingly everlasting praise, with the government declaring it to be the engine of the economy. There is a reason why the sector does so well though – Greece is possessed with such a plethora of aspects that it's hard not to describe it as the ultimate holiday destination. A tour of its many islands includes visits to ancient monuments and cities from the dawn of time. Include its capital Athens in this equation and you can count on a visit to the Acropolis as well. Then throw in the incredible nightlife that can be experienced in Mykonos. And don't forget the quiet little coves that line the coastline and can be explored on all of our tours. And have we mentioned the beaches? Stunning lines of sand or pristine white pebbles can be found on our wide variety of tours here. This truly is a holiday mecca.

Caribbean

When it comes to the Caribbean, the first image that pops into your head is likely that of extraordinary beaches, bordered by emerald trees, perhaps with a deck chair or two underneath the shade. But there's far more here than you might expect. Firstly, a culture so very different from anything you may be used to, with opportunities to witness isolated little villages at the heart of forests and old sugar plantations on one of our itineraries. Then there are the landscapes, which retain oodles of character while maintaining their picture perfect looks. Dramatic mountains pierce the skyline, begging you to explore them. Finally, you can explore an underwater world, with the diving proving to be absolutely incredible. There are many facets to witness when you head to the Caribbean on your holiday.

Croatia

Croatia's rough and ready coastline and enormous collection of islands is well worth exploring for a wide variety of reasons. Visitors can choose to enrich themselves by getting to know the country's incredible culture and history, which has been influenced by a number of factors over the past 1,000 years. Situated as it is on the Dalmatian Sea with neighbours including Italy, Austria, Montenegro and Hungary, you'll find influencers from all in the cuisine, culture and general way of life. Explore the Venetian architecture in beautiful Dubrovnik, often called the Pearl of Dalmatia for reasons that will be instantly apparent once you get there. Then there are the islands, each of them an entirely separate world to be experienced. Don't miss out – book a Seafarer Cruise that allows you to explore the delights of Split, Korcula, Hvar, Mljet and more. Otherwise, you'll be forever thinking about the other aspects on your holiday that you weren't lucky enough to
explore. 

Turkey

If it's variety you're seeking, you can't get much better than Turkey, which is the epitome of the word. Often described as the place where eastern cultures collide with the western way of life, you can count on witnessing an extraordinary plethora of differences. Majestic temples rub shoulders with stone churches. Marketplaces hustle and bustle, alive with activity alongside sharp and sophisticated high street retailers. There are the smells and sensations of Istanbul and its extraordinary plethora of attractions. The atmosphere of the port town Bodrum, once a major trading post in the eyes of the world. Turkey offers variety in abundance, and you'll find equal opportunity to relax and enjoy the sights in its many cafés and bars, as you will to discover its historical secrets. Combine a visit to Istanbul with a trip to the Greek islands for the ultimate varied holiday.

The Greek Islands hold a romance and mysticism that make them the ideal holiday spot. Crystal blue waters, culture by the barrel load, and warm, hospitable people – could you ask for anything more?

How about great towns and cities that enthral and surprise? Well, they've got those too.

Athens

No list of Greek cities can exist without mentioning Athens. It's the historical capital of Europe and the origin of some of the greatest works of mythicism, culture, art, philosophy and science the world has known.

The first settlement of the area can be dated back to the Neolithic age but it wasn't until the 5th century BC that the city really came into its own. Known as the 'Golden Age of Pericles', this period in history is when the city was at its most prosperous and at its most politically significant. It was during this time that playwrights Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides lived and historians Herodotus and Thucydides walked the streets.

Physician Hippocrates and philosopher Socrates also lived during this time, making it an exciting place to be.

Athens derives much of its vibrancy from its multitude of conquerors who shaped the city and erected some of the historic sites we know today.

No visit to Athens is complete without a trip to the Acropolis, the Parthenon or the Ancient Agora of Athens, to name but a few.

Nafplion

A stunning example of the Byzantine era, this is one of the most breathtaking towns in the Argolis and has a rich history.

Founded by Nafplios, believed to be the son of Poseidon and daughter of Danaus Anymone, Nafplion can be traced back to the prehistoric era.

While it went into decline during the Roman era, it resurged during Byzantine times and bears the marks of Frankish, Venetian and Turkish conquerors. You can see it's history played out in its architecture, traditions and its people.

So central is this town that between 1823 and 1834 Nafplio was the first capital of the new Greek state.

Visitors to the town can marvel at the medieval castle, commanding statues, idyllic fountains and ancient walls.

Sparta

Any fans of Greek military history need to go to Sparta – it is the location of the ancient military state of Sparta and anyone who's seen the film 300 will know that it bred its people to be strong in body, healthy in mind and brave in character.

The ancient site of Sparta is located close to the modern city centre and was previously occupied by a small group of people who lived among the ruins.

Visitors should be sure to see the Tomb of Leonidas, the theatre of ancient Sparta and the Archeological museum.

In Ancient Sparta, enter the South Gate of the Acropolis and see the Temple of Athena Chalkioikos. North in the ruins is the Heroon and the Altar of Lykourgos.

Rhodes

The capital city of the island of Rhodes, it is one of the most famous and ancient spots in Greece. Rhodes is now a World Heritage site and its past is etched beautifully on its stone walls.

The city used to be home to the Colossus, which was classed as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The old town is also one of the best preserved historic sites, giving visitors a real atmosphere.

When in the city it's important to drop by the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes and the Archbishops Palace. Both are beautiful buildings and contain examples of the history of the city.

The examples above are but a taste of what can be experienced on a cruising holiday in Greece with Seafarer. Witness the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece, home to the fascinating historical site Mystra. A glorious airy ruin hugging a lush, vegetated foothill, the Byzantine ruins here are extremely intact. Or else experience the delights that Thessaloniki has to offer. Winding alleys, monumental gates and medieval houses are yours to explore. Finally, don't forget to check out Corfu for examples of French, British and Venetian architecture from throughout the ages.

The River Rhine is considered one of the finest waterways in the world. Carving its way through stunning European landscapes, spectacular castles and charismatic cities, cruising it is a great way to experience four cultures in just eight days.

Of course, everyone talks of the larger cities – of Cologne's tightly-knit central streets, Amsterdam's wide and sweeping canals and Strasbourg's political importance within the EU. But at Seafarer, we pride ourselves on showing cruise-goers parts hitherto undiscovered destinations and our itinerary along the Rhine is no exception. Here are some of the places you won't have heard about thus far.

Rudesheim

At the southern end of the Rhine Gorge, you'll find Rudesheim, a pretty port town spread up against a spectacular backdrop of valleys and vineyards. While not as famous as neighbouring Koblenz or Cologne, it does harbour many fascinating secrets and we offer three separate excursions that are useful if you want to truly discover a bit of this diverse and exciting location. Whether you want to visit Siegfried's Mechanical Museum, sample some of the local wares or enjoy a road train, you will share our thrill in uncovering the best of this magnificent destination. A treat indeed.

Mannheim

As Mannheim is the third largest metropolis in Germany, it would be difficult to argue its case for being a rarely explored location. However, its diverse and charismatic streets contain plenty of wonders that are frequently missed by the tourist crowd. Seafarer helps you to get acquainted with the wonderfully baroque architecture with a visit to Mannheimer Schloss, an imposing palace that dates all the way back to 1760. You are also free to seek out the 19th century water tower, the many beautiful churches that populate the streets and, of course, the spectacular Luisenpark. The last of these is one of Europe's most lovely parks and has many popular exhibits including a butterfly house, a Chinese tea house and boat rides on the picturesque lake.

Heidelberg

Germany's oldest university town Heidelberg has a lot of history. The very name was once given to the printing presses that changed the world, while the stunning castle in the centre is much visited by people from all over the world. Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, there's a lot to be freshly discovered about Heidelberg. It's easy to get lost in the narrow streets with their stunningly beautiful houses, and it's well worth taking a meandering stroll before returning to the ship for dinner.

Bad Ems

A walking tour throughout the delightful Bad Ems is not half as bad as the name suggests – it actually means 'bath' in German. This stunning spa town had plenty of beautiful sights to behold, in particular its fascinating mineral springs. Be confident in the fact that you're walking in the footsteps of emperors, tsars, monarchs and artists who also once came here for the supreme beauty. Kaiser Wilhelm I, Tsar Alexander II, Fyodor Dostoevsky​, Richard Wagner, Jacques Offenbach, Victor Hugo and Goethe are among the people who came here. If you're a gambling man, it might be worth checking out Germany's oldest casino as well.

Cochem and Bernkastel

Located on the Moselle Valley, these two towns possess a plethora of hidden opportunities that are a joy to explore. The famous Reichsburg Castle, which towers high above Cochem is a particular highlight, where you can get a fantastic view of the picturesque half-timbered houses and surrounding vineyards that seem to go on forever.

Take the opportunity to explore Bernkastel on foot, where you'll be able to sample the local wines, culture and atmosphere on every corner. A unique charm permeates this fantastic little town.

Turkey has just received two new UNESCO designations in the last month that will bring the current total to 13, making it one of the richest countries in the world in terms of ancient places for people to explore. And while it's undoubtedly good news for the industry, it's already sparked something of a debate. While the designation will no doubt help raise awareness about the protection and preservation efforts required to ensure the survival of ancient places, more tourists will be flocking to them than ever.

The news comes at a time when visitor figures to Turkey are at an all-time high, with particularly strong figures for June standing at 4.2 million, compared to 3.9 million last year. With all this in mind, you might be wondering how you could possibly sample this stunning country in peace.

Never fear – one of the easiest ways to make sure you get an unspoilt view of this incredible place is to opt for one of Seafarer's cruises. Travelling aboard your own traditional Turkish gulet, you can expect all the comfort of a five-star hotel – and only seven other cabins to share it with. Here are our top favourite spots in Turkey where you can escape your fellow tourists.

Selimiye Cove

Nestled among the carved choppy mountains that frame the skyline in a dramatic fashion, Selimiye Cove is a place where nature reigns supreme. An expansive lake reflects the sun-filled sky, while emerald trees cover the landscape like a carpet. If you're exploring on your own two feet, it's easy to feel as though you're the only person for miles around. It's particularly worth wandering up the hill for a view at sunset.

Bodrum

By contrast, it's impossible to feel alone in Bodrum, since this bustling market town is full of thousands of people going about their daily business. While it's a hotspot for international visitors, it's easy to find yourself far from the tourist crowd if you know where to look. Work your way through the central labyrinth of narrow alleyways and roads, seeking those little cafes frequented only by the locals. You'll find charm aplenty here, and adventure as well.

Yedi Adalar

Also known as the Seven Islands, this little peninsula is an idyllic place to spend some time. There is an abundance of water activities in engage in, with snorkelling among the spectacular reefs being an absolute must. One advantage to this activity, of course, is that you can feel utterly isolated from every other living human as you play with the fishes. It is for this reason that we say Yedi Adalar feels like one of the most isolated spots in all of Turkey.

Gocek Bay

The fascinating coastline of Gocek Bay snakes the land, wrapped around a semi-circular disc of water that is peppered with little coves and beaches. Beautiful scenery and a lonely feel that will prompt comparisons to a world untouched by human hands, this is truly a magical place. The nearby islands of Yassica, Batik Hamam, Domuz, and more, are well worth exploring.

Cennet Island

Another spot Seafarer holidaymakers are able to visit is the incredible Cennet Island, which allows visits by Jeep to places such as Orhaniye, with its beautiful sandy beach and the stunning waterfall at Turgut. There is even the opportunity to visit a traditional Turkish village where you end the excursion with a Turkish bath. You simply can't get anything more authentic than this.

Youi can either charter an entire porfessionally crewed Gulet for your party for the ultimate in privacy and freedom, or you can book by the cabin on regular weekly departures from marmaris or Bodrum. Click here for more info.

Croatia is a country that will astonish and surprise you throughout your journey, with its stunning stretches of coastline, unique cities, fascinating culture and beautiful landscapes of verdant green. But few things are likely to be as pleasantly surprising as the cuisine here, which is hardly raved about on the world stage, but actually deserves a great deal more recognition.

Here at Seafarer, we're going about correcting this in our own way – with a mouthwatering guide that will not only get you hungry but also give you some education as to what dishes you should try.

But before we dive straight into that, there are some aspects of Croatian culinary culture that you ought to get to grips with first.

Influence and ingredients

Many Croatian dishes owe their incredible flavour to the careful manner in which the chef selects the ingredients. Great care goes into this process, and a lot of effort is spent procuring the freshest meat and vegetables. And once everything is present and correct, there is the preparation, which might be considered an Olympic sport for some dishes. Some dishes are required to undergo a process that takes 24 hours to complete before they make it anywhere near your plate. 

Influence-wise, the Croatian cuisine scene has – pardon the pun – been a melting pot for various styles from all of its neighbours. You'll spy elements of Bulgarian cookery, such as thick glutinous goulash and beautiful desserts, as well as perfectly prepared pasta and risotto courtesy of nearby Italy. Croatian cuisine has emerged as something altogether different from all of these, however, and it isn't wise to assume you know what's going to be put on your plate before it actually arrives.

So what are you dying to try? Which of the below makes your taste buds dance in anticipation? No matter your likes and dislikes when it comes to food, you won't be disappointed.

Ajvar

This is a relish that is made from aubergine, red pepper and chillies. As you would expect from that list of ingredients, it's a dish that contains a bit of heat, and the spiciness can vary considerably from region to region, and even from restaurant to restaurant. There is a certain joy in wandering from one venue to the next, trying to work out which one makes the best ajvar. Depending on the preparation technique, the dish might even have a touch of sweetness about it. This dish is great as a starter with some bread for dipping.

Burek

Picture a cornish pasty, but remove the heavy shortcrust and replace it with a flakey thin pastry. The end result is burek, a dish that is immensely popular not just in Croatia but right across the Balkans. Inside, you may find a variety of minced and grilled meats with peppers and caramelised onion, although bureks that contain just cheese are popular as well. While it might be tempting to find the one with the largest number of ingredients, don't. Croatian cuisine really is at its best when the dishes are simple. While they come in many shapes and sizes, it's worth watching out for the Sigara böreği or 'cigarette burek', which is rolled up like a cigarette.They often contain a variety of vegetables such as spinach, nettle, leek, and courgette.

Pašticada

The mother of all Olympic-standard dishes, pašticada is something you simply have to try during your time in Croatia. Beef is the main ingredient and the preparation process is epic. Firstly, the meat is marinated in a sauce consisting of red wine and garlic for around 24 hours before various herbs and spices are added. The actual cooking – which takes another few hours – then takes place, during which time carrots, onions, cloves and nutmeg are added. Mouth watering yet? Excellent. Finally, the sauce is further enriched with dry plums which cause it to thicken further before it is triumphantly spooned onto your plate. That's good eating.

Pršut

Wandering the streets of Dubrovnik and Split, you might feel a pang of hunger. Dinner isn't far away, but you're not sure you can wait that long. No problem – seek out an eatery serving Pršut, a dry-cured ham that is especially renowned throughout Croatia. Traditionally, it's cut into long thin slices and served alongside Paški sir, a cheese made on Pag Island that is made entirely from milk produced by free-roaming sheep. Both the ham and the cheese slices – which are usually served on little cocktail sticks – combine to give a wonderfully strong flavour.

Ispod

It is more of a cookery technique than an actual dish, but if someone cooks you something ispod-style in Croatia, you're in for a treat. Meat – usually lamb or, in the coastal areas, octopus, is placed into a dome-shaped pot called a peka. Various vegetables, herbs and spices are added, before the whole lot is left to cook in its own juices. None of this stirring business or lifting of the lid before it's done. The result is a wonderful tender dish that will send your taste buds into a frenzy. If possible, try to be around when the chef lifts the lid off of the peka. The rhapsody of smells that emerges is always incredible.

Crni rižot

Croatia's fondness for Italian dishes coupled with the nation's chefs' playfulness and inventiveness is evident in crni rižot, or black risotto. This seafood dominated dish contains a variety of ingredients including the essential rice, but also a whole octopus that crucially does not have the ink removed from its pouch. As the dish cooks, this dissolves, giving the dish its characteristic dark hue and a taste that is quite distinct from anything else you'll find in the Mediterranean.

Visitors to Croatia are being encouraged to share the photos they take during their stay in this holiday paradise by a new promotional campaign set up by the Croatian National Tourism Board (CNTB). The initiative hopes to highlight the nation's sweeping stretches of coastline, incredible cuisine, historical places of interest and charming cities such as Dubrovnik.

Videos and photos that catch the eye of the CNTB will be published on a new website called Share Croatia, and participants will be entered into a prize draw for a free trip to the stunning country. When sharing their photos on social media sites, tourists must tag the media with the hashtags #lovecroatia or #sharecroatia to ensure their entry is submitted.

Tourists are going to have to act fast though – there are more than 24,000 photos tagged with the hashtags on Instagram alone. So what are the most picturesque spots on a Croatian holiday? Where should you head to for a particularly sweeping and dynamic shot? Have a look at our guide below and find out.

Dubrovnik

The walled city of Dubrovnik features a charm that remains quite unlike anywhere else in the world. Its terracotta roof topped houses, dramatic bay and charming streets make for an almost otherworldly atmosphere – something that has been showcased to excess in the hit television series Game of Thrones. Of course, gorgeous weather and azure waters also help to provide scenic coastal shots. But where exactly should you go? Down by the waters' edge, where the giant castle walls meet the bay, providing a stellar contrast and an irresistible image? Or perhaps deep into the white cobblestoned streets of the Old Town, where unique buildings greet you at every turn, and strolling couples provide a sense of atmosphere? Equally as exciting is the Dubrovnik cable car, which offers breathtaking views over the city as well as a stunning panorama of the Adriatic Sea. But if that doesn't appeal, you'll find plenty of great spots throughout the city where beautiful examples of Gothic,
Renaissance and Baroque churches can be discovered. Their wonderful architecture could provide the perfect backdrop to your photo.

Kornati National Park

Aboard Seafarer's Central Dalmatian itinerary, you'll have the opportunity to experience the spectacular Kornati National Park, which consists of 140 stunning islands and reefs. Any one of these could provide your winning shot, such is the beauty on display here. How about taking on the challenge of getting a good wildlife photo? Above the waves, myriad species flourish, including butterflies, green toads, lizards, snakes, birds, martens and bats. Otherwise, acquire a waterproof camera and go on your photo-snapping mission beneath the surface of the Dalmatian sea. The waters of the Kornati National Park are home to hundreds of types of algae, dozens of underwater flower varieties and 185 species of fish. The adorable sea turtle can also be found here, so have that camera ready. Unique sites for photography fans also include the many iliad ruins, Roman villas and places of worship that exist here, including the Christian church of St Mary.

Vis

The island of Vis contains a uniquely unspoilt charm that makes for excellent photographic opportunities during your stay in Croatia. Locked off from tourists over many years thanks to its unique geographical position, it is one of the most picturesque places you will see in your entire life. A crescent of pristine sand is probably the first thing you'll notice, topped with emerald trees. But the natural beauty doesn't stop there – rough and rugged coastline also features prominently, with the spectacular white stone forging unique inclines and bays that are great for swimming in. Although you might not think it at first, there is life here and the village of Komiza on the south-west coast makes for some superb shots of its own if you're seeking something other than natural beauty. See if you can get a sundown image of the old fishing boats bobbing away in the harbour. The many miles of vineyard across the island also make for some stellar images – Vis is responsible
for some of Croatia's best-known wines.

Zadar

Few cities in Croatia can claim to be as beautiful as Zadar, which possesses an extraordinary degree of charm thanks to its unique architecture, wonderful seafront and the fact it is not overrun by tourists. But it's not a museum town – this is a vibrant and active place that is enjoyed by both visitors and residents alike. For great photo opportunities, you'll want to spend some time in the Old Town, which contains many Roman ruins and medieval churches. But don't neglect the more modern additions – the cosmopolitan cafes where the locals spend their days drinking coffee and catching up on the day's gossip might provide the shot you're looking for.

Split

Croatia's second city provides a buzzing atmosphere and balance of tradition and modernity that is highly conducive to great photography. Start by taking a step inside Diocletian's Palace, an impressive Roman monument and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then there is the thriving restaurant and cafe scene that provides a sense of activity and life that is great fun to try and capture in an image. But what makes Split particularly special is its spectacular natural setting. Crested by turquoise waters and with a dynamic coastline that is dominated by dramatic coastal mountains, Split is positioned in such a way that any photos taken on approach are likely to be particularly special.

If you're looking for your perfect Croatian photo, be sure to travel with Seafarer. We offer cruises to all of the locations above, and more. A diverse selection of destinations will most likely give you an edge over the competition as you'll be able to capture both bustling cities and deserted island bays, as well as spectacular ruins and stunning natural parks. Just don't forget your camera!

A trip to the Caribbean will leave you stupefied, stunned and surprised, but certainly not stressed. Considered one of the most naturally beautiful destinations of the world, the various islands of the region lay scattered off the southeast coast of the USA like a constellation. Consisting of various islets, cays, reefs and hidden corners, it is a joyous place to explore – especially if you're lucky enough to be sailing aboard one of our luxurious Star Clippers.

In full sail, these spectacular vessels look stunning against a backdrop of rolling hills and charismatic coastlines. Relaxing on deck is a blissful experience when the weather is fine – which is almost all the time besides the occasional tropical storm which is something to witness in itself.

Highlights

But enough about transportation – what can you expect from the Caribbean islands themselves? As anyone who has seen Pirates of the Caribbean will tell you, there is plenty of incredible natural beauty in the form of long lazy stretches of sand lined with palm trees. But it's a mark of how amazing this place is that this is just the start. The real secret behind the Caribbean's popularity is less to do with its incredible natural assets and more to do with the fact that this is a place where relaxation just seems to happen. Every corner is permeated with a thoroughly laid-back atmosphere that soothes you as you walk along the beach, sample great food or snorkel in crystal clear waters, discovering new forms of marine life.

Among its collection of highlights, perhaps Anguilla stands out particularly prominently. This long undulating island curls its way through the water like an eel – hence the name – and there is plenty to discover here. Sampling the local specialties in a restaurant that overlooks the coast is a particular treat. As is wandering the characteristic streets of Malliouhana, which are instantly recognisable for their bleached white appearance complemented by blocks of striking colour. But it is the beaches that really define Anguilla, and you should make the most of them while you're here.

Similarly, Nevis also makes for a very memorable visit. Dotted with old sugar plantations, it is known for the towering cliffs of the aptly named Mount Scenery. It didn't even have a road until 1951 and cars remain a rare sight. But you're not going to want to spend long in a vehicle on this incredible slice of paradise. Locate your swim gear and dive into the sparkling sea. The diving is just out of this world here, and you're sure to see plenty of sea life occupying the little reefs.

Choices

Here at Seafarer, we offer two distinct tours of the spectacular Caribbean landscape. You can choose to sail the Leeward Islands and witness the beauty of Dominica, Gustavia and the aforementioned Nevis. Or else, go completely Johnny Depp with the Treasure Islands itinerary, which encompasses the likes of Virgin Gorda, Anguilla and Norman Island.

While you can count on experiencing a relaxing atmosphere on both tours, they also offer a diverse range of activities to keep you occupied. A brisk walk through a rainforest, the chance to climb over the enormous granite boulders on Virgin Gorda or wander the streets of Malliouhana. Such activities are but a taste of what's in store with the Treasure Islands option. But choosing the Leeward Islands alternative takes you on an altogether different – but still deeply satisfying – journey.

So go on – allow the Caribbean to surprise you with its secrets.