Walking in the shadow of the Acropolis in the Agora, you can almost hear the voices of Plato, Socrates and Aristotle arguing about who was the greatest philosopher. Ancient Athens, the birthplace of democracy and epicenter of western civilization, is a city for all eternity.
 

One of the most cosmopolitan of all the Greek Islands, Mykonos is a contrast of rocky hills and beautiful beaches. Hora, the capital, spreads around a colorful harbor, a popular meeting place, overlooked by a variety of tavernas, in which fishing boats nestle side by side with luxury yachts.
 

This serene island is known as the site of the apocalyptic revelations of St. John the Divine, The cave where he is said to have lived is now the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. It houses priceless icons and manuscripts in its treasury.
 

A mastic-scented island with fascinating history This natural product is cultivated entirely by hand and is used in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry and cosmetics. At the central market of the town of Chios, you can buy mastic-based jams and sweets, brandies and Ouzo! Chios is most likely the birthplace of Homer and also the ancient mathematicians Hippocrates and Enopides. A lot of Chiots work in the Merchant Navy and some of the most important Greek shipping companies have been founded by families that come from the island.
 

Dikkili is a sleepy little beach town, authentically Turkish. The harbor is lined with open-air restaurants and shops with local food specialties. Nearby, Bergama is worth a visit especially for its two main monuments: the Acropolis perched at a height of 280 meters and the Asklepion.
 

Bozcaada has resisted the temptation to become overwhelmed with the usual tourist trappings. If you venture aware from it's glorious uncrowded sandy beaches, you will find yourself wandering around it's ancient cobbled streets, lined with quaint rustic homes adorned with gorgeous flora and fauna. Stop off for refreshments in one of it's many traditional tavernas under the grapevines or visit one of the six wineries on the island. After the tour you can shop next door and enjoy tasting wine samples.
 

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalizing spa (Royal Clipper only), and a peaceful library.
 

Throughout thousands of years, Istanbul’s geographical position has maintained its importance. Today it is a huge metropolis connecting continents, cultures, and religions and is home to eleven million people and one of the greatest business and cultural centers of the region.