Dakar to Lisbon

Capital of Senegal, and a major gateway to Western Africa, the former colonial trading post of Dakar stamps the Cap-Vert peninsular with glorious surf-fringed beaches. Enjoy the thrum of markets - where colourful textiles are exchanged - and wander streets where jazz, sambar and mbalax spill from every ajar door. Offering tropical island-style beaches in an incongruous urban setting, Dakar is a wild and urgent experience for the senses. Watch on as surfers revel in consistent rollers on this, the most westerly peninsula of continental Africa. Scuba divers can explore worlds below the surface in Dakar's diving areas, or you can head to sandy beaches like Plage des Mamelles' cove, which provide endless options for cooling off. Looking for a little more activity, loosen up and play on golf courses that unroll along the sun-kissed Senegalese coastline, or visit startling natural sites like the vivid pink water of the salty pink Lake Retba. Cultural relevance abounds in Dakar - those wanting to delve a little deeper into the dark history of Senegal should visit the House of Slaves on the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Goree Island, or duck into the Theodore Monod Museum to pour over an incredible collection of masks, artefacts, and treasures. Sandaga Market is a full-on experience of choreographed chaos, sound and flavours. Tear into fish fresh off the boat, and don't be afraid to get your hands a little greasy while handling Dibi - the national street food - soft mutton, simmered with onions and zesty orange spice.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

The capital of the Cape Verde archipelago, Praia on Santiago Island might be in African in body, but it is European in soul. In fact, when the Portuguese colonised the islands in the 15th century they found no human inhabitants. Thus Cape Verdeans have evolved with a highly unique blend of European and African ancestry, conversing in a sing-song language of Creole, African dialect and Portuguese. The islands only gained independence in 1975 (after a 15-year war), so Portuguese influence is rife and to some, relatively recent. At almost 300 miles off the coast of mainland west Africa, the remoteness of the islands has allowed the archipelago’s natural wildlife to flourish. Naturalists consider Cape Verde as a mini Galapagos, with many endemic species. That, along with astounding landscapes, warm climate and clear waters is reason enough to visit. Add the liveliest market in all of the islands and you’ll soon fall in love with Praia’s shabby grandeur. Originally named Praia de Santa Maria when it was first settled in 1615, the city is nation’s capital. The city is built on a plateau near the beach Santa Maria beach, the town centre still has monuments that attest to its rich history. Due to Santiago’s location between Africa, the soon-to-be-discovered America and Europe, Praia became a slave central for merchants returning to Europe. Buildings built for the dubious trade are still visible – including those with balconies overlooking the square where owners would negotiate the price of human property.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Although this busy port city is smaller, quieter and less attractive than Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, Santa Cruz has its own share of elegant monuments. Until 1837, the island's capital was La Laguna, not Santa Cruz, so there are only a few of the buildings in the city center that are any older than that. At the busy Plaza de España, there are several pedestrian streets leading north and to the area west of the port, where you'll find the city's stunning auditorium and maritime park. A real highlight of the city are its ramblas, long tree-lined boulevards that fall steeply from the north end of the city to the sea. Nightlife The core of Santa Cruz nightlife is Avenida Anaga, facing the port. For about seven blocks beginning at Plaza España, Anaga crawls with upscale disco-bars. The more traditional bars, where you can have drinks and tapas outdoors, are near Plaza España. Farther away from the plaza are the louder bars and dance clubs, dominated by the latest hits and filled with a younger crowd. Shopping By Canary Island standards, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a major shopping center, although it doesn’t have the variety and number of stores found in Las Palmas. Calle Castillo, the main pedestrian street through the center of town, is lined with souvenir shops, trendy boutiques, and electronics stores. Calle del Pilar has higher-end fashions and the department stores Marks & Spencer and El Corte Inglés (another branch is next to the bus terminal). Dining El Lateral 27 This restaurant's key position in the main shopping street makes it a handy place to stop for a meal after sightseeing, especially since the kitchen is open from 11 am to midnight. If there are free tables, sit outside on the pleasant terrace in the leafy pedestrian street—inside is less pretty. Specialties include a wide range of salads such as ensalada de bacalao confitado con pimientos asados (slow-cooked cod with baked peppers) and fresh fish. Tasca Tagoror Opposite the Mencey Hotel, this tiny bar serves Canary cooking in abundant portions at reasonable prices. Tasca Tagoror (it means "meeting place" in Guanche) has a low, beamed ceiling with white walls dashed with gray rock. Seating is on wooden benches or stools around barrels, which doesn't exactly encourage lingering. Food is simple and unpretentious—daily specials might include fried fresh sardines with black potatoes or chicken breast with garlic and mushrooms. The wine list is surprisingly comprehensive. Shopping La Casa de Los Balcones Near Plaza España, this shop stocks colorful Canarian blankets, embroideries, jars of mojo sauce, and hefty bags of gofio. Artenerife Artenerife sells traditional crafts made by local artisans and guaranteed by the island's government as productos artesanos. The selection includes Tenerifan calado—exquisitely embroidered linen tablecloths and place mats—and clay pottery made using the same methods as those used by the island's aboriginal settlers. (The aborigines didn't use potter's wheels; rather, they rolled the clay into churros, or cylindrical strips, and hand-kneaded these into bowls. Pebbles, branches, and shells were used to buff the results.) La Cava La Cubana Local and foreign cigars are available at this tobacco shop. Sights Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción has a six-story Moorish bell tower. The church was renovated as part of an urban-renewal project that razed blocks of slums in this area. Chruch opening times vary, but you can generally visit before and after Mass. Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa This colorful city market is part bazaar and part food emporium. Stalls outside sell household goods; inside, stands displaying everything from flowers to canaries are arranged around a patio. Downstairs, a stroll through the seafood section will acquaint you with the local fish. A flea market with antiques and secondhand goods is held here on Sunday. Museo de Bellas Artes Old masters and modern works are in the two-story Museo de Bellas Artes, including canvases by Breughel and Ribera. Many works depict local events. The museum is on the Plaza Príncipe de Asturias. Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre Primitive ceramics and mummies are on display at the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre. The ancient Guanches mummified their dead by rubbing the bodies with pine resin and salt and leaving them in the sun to dry for two weeks. Plaza de España The heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the Plaza de España. The cross in the plaza is a monument to those who died in the Spanish civil war, which was actually launched from Tenerife by General Franco during his exile here. For two weeks before Lent each year, during Carnaval, Santa Cruz throbs to a Latin beat emanating from this plaza. Castillo San Cristóbal and the tourist office are both here. Playa de las Teresitas Santa Cruz's beach, Las Teresitas, is about 7 km (4½ miles) northeast of the city, near the town of San Andrés. The 1½ km of beach was created using white sand imported from the Sahara and planted with palms. A manmade barrier runs parallel to the sands and ensures safe bathing. Busy in the summer and on weekends, this beach is especially popular with local families. The 910 TITSA bus route connects the beach with Santa Cruz. There's a good choice of bars and restaurants, and plenty of lounge chairs for rent. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets. Good for: sunset; swimming; walking. Parque Marítimo César Manrique Just west of the auditorium, this maritime park with its three saltwater pools and tropical gardens is a favorite with locals. Designed by the Lanzarote architect César Manrique, the park combines volcanic rock with palms and local flora. Castillo San Cristóbal The walls of the city castle were uncovered when the car park under the Plaza de España was built. The site is now a museum that includes an 18th-century cannon, a shot from which reputedly cost Britain's Admiral Nelson his right arm in an attack he led in 1794. Entrance to the museum is via a stairway opposite the lake. Auditorio de Tenerife A magnificent white shell of an auditorium dominates the west end of the city. Built by the architect Santiago Calatrava in 2003, the auditorium has a year-round program of concerts and opera. If you want a guided tour, it's best to book one ahead of time. Tenerife Espacio de Artes Soon after it opened in 2008, this art museum became quickly became the main landmark for contemporary art on the islands due to its sleek low-rise design as well as its avant-garde exhibitions. Designed by the Swiss architects Herzog & Meuron, it's next to the Museo de la Naturaleza. The emphasis is on the 20th and 21st centuries, and art incorporating or commenting on modern technology. A major permanent exhibition is dedicated to the Tenerife surrealist artist, Oscar Domínguez.

Nestled on the east coast of Lanzarote, Arrecife takes its name from the rocky reefs and outcrops that dominate its coastline. This pretty working city has a friendly, authentic feel, and has managed to remain true to its roots as a historic fishing village. There’s a lot to explore, and whether you want to lie back on long swathes of opulent golden sand, or strap on hiking boots to crunch across Lanzarote’s scorched volcanic scenery, this versatile capital has so much to offer. With castles, caves, sleepy beaches, and a glittering saltwater lagoon, Arrecife is the perfect place to get acquainted with the sun-kissed appeal of the Canary Islands. Lanzarote’s charcoal desert vistas radiate a remarkable luna-like quality, but dotted cacti, waving palms, and bursts of vibrant wildflowers add an accent of colour to the canvas. Arrecife itself boasts apricot-coloured beaches and labyrinthine lanes of white-wash buildings within its Old Quarter, where you can smell fresh fish grilling, and see locals dipping delicious local salty potatoes - papas arrugadas - into colourful sauces. An evening stroll along El Charco de san Gines is a must for watching fishing boats bobbing gently on the lagoon, and watching spectacular sunsets burning across the sky. Standing tall for more than four centuries, Castillo De San Gabriel is located on the tiny island of Islote de los Ingleses, and was once a target for pirates, who would appear menacingly on the Atlantic’s horison. The stalwart 16th-century fortress now serves as the History Museum of Arrecife, and exhibitions inside explore the evolution of the city, and the ancient culture of Lanzarote. The International Museum of Contemporary Art, meanwhile, displays modern and abstract works within the 18th-century San José Castle’s refined setting. See works from Cesar Manrique - the prominent artist and architect whose slick sixties style flair can be admired across the island.

شكرًا (Shookran) Merci ⵜⴰⵏⵎⵉⵔⵜ (Tanmirt) Although the official language spoken in Agadir is Classical Arabic, French, because of the country's history, is also widely spoken. But Agadir is also at the centre of a part of Morocco as big as Kentucky, where a third language is spoken: Tachelhit, the ancestral language of the Shilha people of Morocco. Spoken by almost 10 million Moroccans, the language is a variant of Berber, itself part of the Afro-Asiatic languages that include Semitic, Egyptian and Chadic, although certain characteristics may also link it to Central African dialects. It is one of the few living African languages with a literature dating back to before the colonial period. It consisted mainly of religiously inspired poetry and legends. The oldest surviving work is an Arab-Tachelhit dictionary dating from the twelfth century. Until the 16th century, however, Tifinagh ( ⵜⵉⴼⵉⵏⴰⵖ ) seems to have been used to write Tachelhit, an alphabet dating back to the 7th century BC, which was superseded by Arab domination. At the end of the 19th century, under French influence, the Latin alphabet was used, but recently there has been a very official return to Tifinagh to transcribe this language, which has been spoken since time immemorial. Although specialists still have doubts about the origin of this alphabet, it seems to have been influenced by Phoenician. ⴰ: A- ⴱ: B- ⴳ: G- ⴷ: D- ⴹ: Ḍ- ⴻ: E- ⴼ: F- ⴽ: K- ⵀ: H- ⵃ: Ḥ- ⵄ: Ɛ- ⵅ: X- ⵇ: Q- ⵉ: I- ⵊ: J- ⵍ: L- ⵎ: M- ⵏ: N- ⵓ: U- ⵔ: R- ⵕ: Ṛ- ⵖ: Ɣ- ⵙ: S- ⵚ: Ṣ- ⵛ: C- ⵜ: T- ⵟ: Ṭ- ⵡ: U- ⵢ: Y- ⵣ: Z- ⵥ: Ẓ

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Immortal lines from the silver screen may have imprinted a warm, fuzzy visage of old Casablanca into our minds, but this thriving city is a curious example of what Morocco’s modernity looks like. Glistening white art deco buildings line the wide pathways that sweep through Casablanca, as the sea sparkles like a thin mirage on the horizon. There’s an aura of creativity amid Casablanca’s culture and chaos, helping to make the city one of Morocco’s most curious and compelling. The Hassan II Mosque took a staggering seven years and 10,000 artists to craft its legacy as the country's largest mosque, and to bring the world's tallest minaret to sky-high reality. A vision of cool to the touch marble, cavernous prayer rooms and intricate inlays, the mosque is extraordinary in scale and ambition. Retractable roofs let the sun flood in, while dizzying glass floors dazzle, and the blue Atlantic waves surge below your feet. After that humbling visit, stroll along La Corniche - where surfers glide across rough and tumble waves, and chic cafes offer front-row seats for sweet peppermint teas with a side of people-watching. Casablanca is a diner's city - boulevards laced with French-fusion restaurants, buzzy beachfront joints, and raw seafood bars provide gem-like offerings fresh from the boat. Those seeking a slice of that golden-age Hollywood romance can wander through the medina, with its unabashed ramshackle feel, and maze of alleyways punctuated with busy barber shops and butchers.

More than a hundred watchtowers gaze out across the waves surrounding this ancient Andalusian city. Sprinkled with evocative cobbled side streets, you’ll explore 3,000 years’ worth of history, while stumbling across palm-tree lined plazas of shaded coffee sippers. Cadiz claims the mantle of Western Europe’s oldest city, and every piece of architecture - and every wrong turn - offers a chance to discover fascinating new tales. Founded by the Phoenicians in 1100BC, Christopher Columbus used the city as a base for his exploratory, map-defining voyages of 1493 and 1502. The port grew in importance and wealth as Cadiz’s strategic location close to Africa’s northern tip helped it blossom into a centre for New World trade. Catedral de Cádiz, is a display of the city’s wealth and importance, looming spectacularly over the Atlantic’s waves, with cawing seagulls sweeping between its twin bell towers. Inside, treasures from the city’s trading exploits in the West Indies and beyond - which helped fuel the growth of this historically prosperous city – are on display. Enveloped by ocean on almost every side, Cadiz has something of an island feel, and you can cool off from southern Spain’s unrelenting sunshine on the sweeping golden sand beach of Playa Victoria. The two towers of the new El Puente de la Constitución de 1812 mark a contemporary landmark in this most ancient of cities, in the form of a spectacular new road bridge. Torre Tavira, meanwhile, is the most famous of Cadiz’s army of watchtowers, and the highest point in the city. Reach the top for a view of the ocean fringing the city’s expanse, and to learn about the towers - constructed so trading merchants could survey the harbour from their lavish homes. The Central Market is a chaotic place of bartering, where flashing knives dissect fresh fish. Stop in at the orbiting bars to enjoy tapas, freshly prepared with the market’s produce.

Sprawl out and relax across thick wedges of glorious, golden sands, in Portugal’s sun-worshipping paradise. Portimão is a beachy heaven and a perfect encapsulation of the Algarve’s Atlantic appeals, offering easy access to the wonderful Praia da Rocha. Head straight for the long and wide expanse of this famous beach, where you can kick back and enjoy soft, honey-coloured sands and gentle waves rolling ashore. A spectacular and spacious sandy expanse – located at the point where the Arade River unloads into the Atlantic – relax, or wander the wooden boardwalk to a string of neighbouring beaches, as you explore among dramatic, tank-like rock formations. Taste juicy hauls of sardines, cooked over open fires, with glasses of wine pressed from the vineyards nearby - as you lavish under the sunshine of the Algarve’s prime holiday region. Surrounded by offbeat fishing villages, stunning coastline and quaintly tiled old towns, there is a rich medley of life, culture and flavours to indulge in. Attractive mosaics pattern the scenic Ribeirinha promenade, breathing new life into Portimão’s rugged old docks and creating a charming riverside stroll that leads to the showpiece beach. Elsewhere, the arches and sea-eroded limestone stacks of the monumental Ponta da Piedade coastline are close by, or you can make for Silves, a historical former capital of the Kingdom of the Algarve, crowned with a soaring sandy castle. The Moorish trading outpost of Lagos is also within reach, where you can visit a coastline dotted with gaping sea caves.

A glorious mosaic of beauty, freedom and authenticity, Portugal’s capital is a stirring artwork of a city. Known for the seven hills it spreads across, and its stirring fado music, Lisbon is a pastel-coloured blend of houses and beautiful tile artworks - and this creative city strikes a perfect harmony between natural and manmade beauty. Stroll along Alfama's steep, cobbled streets as you explore one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods - where each house and door could be its own photograph. Look for the decorative tiles, with the distinctive blues and whites of Azulejo ceramics, and visit the dedicated museum to learn more. Afterwards, wind up to São Jorge Castle, where views out across Lisbon’s red rooftops unravel. Just one of many majestic viewpoints, you can also seek out Miradouro da Graça for perhaps Lisbon's finest panorama, with the copper-coloured suspension bridge stretching over sparkling water beyond the sea of buildings. The elegant Tower of Belém rises in the Tagus estuary and is a historic defender of these shores. The grand, carved cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery spread out close by, and there's another UNESCO recognised location close by at Sintra, where a colourful town is set amid thick gardens and towering mountains - capped by the royal Pena Palace. Later, relax and take a quick break to drink Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur made from chocolate cups instead of coffee. Lisboetas have a sweet tooth, and the famous Pastel de Nata's crumbling pastry and caramelised-custard topping is the essential accompaniment to any coffee stop.