This 15th-century city with a semitropical colonial ambience is a favorite stopping place for yachts crossing the Atlantic. Visit the Casa Colon, named for the great explorer, and do some exploring of your own by adventuring to the volcanic crater of Caldera de Taburiente National Park. Its lunar landscape and exotic vegetation take you to a new world.

The island of Tenerife is bisected by steep volcanic mountains cut by garden-like valleys lush with flowers and vegetation. In the capital of Santa Cruz's anthropological museum, learn about the original inhabitants of Tenerife, the stone age Guanche people. Not to be missed is a spectacular drive into the mountains, where 3,718-metre Mount Teide, Spain's tallest mountain, is covered in snow much of the year.

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 onboard, 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.

On the wild and rugged east coast of Barbados, the isolated beaches are the color of sunrise, the red sands having blown all the way across the Atlantic from the Sahara. The easternmost island of the Windwards, and indeed, of the entire Caribbean, reaches out to Africa and the Old World, as if not quite part of the New. Bridgetown, Barbados, is an interesting town full of contrasts. George Washington actually slept here! Trafalgar Square reminds you that the laidback, rum- and fun-loving island's British-influenced heritage includes revered traditions like cricket and high tea. Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.