Day 1 : Barcelona/SPAIN

Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family.

Day 2 : Palamos/SPAIN

Day 3 : Sete/FRANCE

Nearby the charming port of Sete is Carcassonne, the best surviving example of a medieval walled city which dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. While the knights and their horses have long been gone, their presence can still be felt as you walk along Carcassonne's winding streets. Explore the town's boutiques and cafes. Be sure to sample "cassoulet," a delightful combination of meats cooked with beans which is the city's specialty.

Day 4 : Cannes/FRANCE

Day 5 : At Sea

Day 6 :

Day 7 : Cinqueterre/ITALY

Day 8 : Monte Carlo/MONACO

Day 9 : Portofino/ITALY

Often called the "Pearl of the Riviera," this charming hideaway on the Ligurian Sea is a favorite vacation spot of many wealthy Europeans. Once a quiet fishing village, Portofino is now best known for its chic boutiques, wonderful outdoor restaurants, and beachside cliffs that are speckled with pastel-colored villas. An optional day trip by boat lets you explore the picturesque coastline villages of Paraggi and Santa Margherita.

Day 10 : Elba/ITALY

Portoferraio, with its lemon-yellow buildings, is among the most elegant of the old Mediterranean ports. Beyond the town lies an island of great natural beauty. The hills are covered with pine forests and the scent of wildflowers fills the air; discover the island's medieval and Napoleonic history on a countryside tour.

Day 11 : At Sea

Day 12 : St. Tropez/FRANCE

No introduction is needed for what is perhaps the world's best known and most fashionable resort on the Riviera. Immerse yourself in the splendid scenery of the Cote d'Azur with an excursion to the hilltop villages of Gassin and Il Ramatuelle, and the new town of Port Grimaud, built to resemble an old Mediterranean fishing village.

Day 13 : At Sea

Day 14 : Mahon/SPAIN

Minorca, also spelt Menorca, is considered the gem of the Balearic Islands. Mahon, its most important port, is also its capital. Journey to the top of Monte Toro, the highest mountain on the island, and savor a most spectacular view-occasionally as far as Majorca. Explore Binibeca, a fishing village rich in vacation homes and villas built in the old Catalan style. Or escape to the lighthouse at Favoritz and enjoy a secluded beach.

Day 15 : Barcelona/SPAIN

Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family.