Pacific Northwest from Vancouver with Stay, 25 September 2024 (11 nights)

The oldest place within Vancouver at the heart of its very origins, Gastown was set up in 1867 by John Deighton whose various stories and adventures garnered him the name of ‘Gassy Jack.’ Nowadays, you’ll find fantastic restaurants, and the famous steam-powered clock in Maple Tree Centre.

In Vancouver’s China Town district you can visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden where you can see a truly beautiful collection of plant life and ponds. There is also the Sam Kee Building which is the narrowest office building ever built, spanning barely 2 meters wide!

English Bay is a beautiful beach that is home to outstanding high-end shops and mouth watering restaurants. There are also waterfront trails to follow if you like beach walking.

Canada Place is the perfect spot to start your adventures around Vancouver as it is where you’ll first step ashore from your cruise ship. Explore the pier, and be taken back by the outstanding architecture and views. At the end of the pier you’ll find the Flyover Canada attraction. From here, you can also use Canada Place as a transit hub to other places around Vancouver.

This fascinating natural and human history museum boasts over 7 million exhibits as well as a giant IMAX cinema for out-of-this-world shows. A highlight has to be the exhibitions covering the culture and history of indigenous peoples of North America.

Built by Robert Dunsmuir in 1890 with investments in the local coal industry, this Victorian-style mansion is where you can learn all about the family and locals’ fascinating history, while exploring the quirky castle via artefacts displayed in each restored room.

Originating in 1858, Victoria’s Chinatown is the second oldest in North America after San Francisco. With charming narrow, winding streets, Chinatown offers not only delicious food but an immersive look into the lives of its inhabitant past and present.

Thetis Lake Regional Park offers pleasant walks around the banks of the lake and gorgeous evergreen woodlands, with easy yet beautiful hiking. Here, you get to spot such species as rainbow trout, red squirrels and the odd fellow hiker’s dog.

Seattle’s most iconic symbol, the Space Needle towers 184 metres high over the city with jaw-dropping views from its observation area at the top. Completed in 1961, the Space Needle has been made world-famous by appearances in pop-culture, such as the hit film Sleepless In Seattle.

“MoPOP” has regular exhibits celebrating everything pop culture and contemporary. Founded by Paul Allen of Microsoft in 2000, MoPOP is a great day of viewing original lyric notes, legendary instruments and even cinema, gaming, fantasy and sci-fi exhibits.

If you only have a day in Seattle, the Seattle Center is ideal for getting a taste of the city in one go. Here, you’ll find the Space Needle, the pop culture museum, Chihuly Garden and Glass, ride the monorail and wander grounds boasting John T. Williams totem pole.

Opened in 2012, this giant Ferris wheel is a great way to see the epic skyline of Seattle. Visitors will enjoy a leisurely ride a 53-metres up in the air - giving the London eye a run for its money - on pier 57 around Elliot Bay.

Situated on an island out in the San Francisco bay, Alcatraz was probably the world’s most famous high-security prison. Serving as a high-security jail for the US’s most hardened criminals it was said the facility was impossible to escape from- luckily, today the destination is a fascinating museum.

Completed in 1937, the Golden Gate suspension bridge is one of the USA’s most iconic pieces or architecture. Spanning one mile across San Francisco bay out towards the Pacific, around the constructional marvel there is also got a gift shop and tourist facilities to match the stunning views.

The most famous international wine growing region in the whole of the USA, these scenic valleys of vineyards are a must for anyone who loves wine-tasting in some of the world’s most beautifully manicured landscapes.

Sat on the Salinas River, Paso Robles is renowned for its wineries, olive oil and the California Mid-State Fair. A stroll through olive groves with a glass of local wine is a must, while lunch at the award-winning The Groves 41 completes a relaxed afternoon.

Overlooking the Los Angeles basin, Griffith Observatory is a fantastic, free attraction. In the observatory itself, visitors will find fascinating planetarium shows, and in the surrounding area over 50 miles of beautiful hiking and cycling routes.

This iconic amphitheatre was recognised as one of the 10 best live music venues in the United States, and for good reason. Its unique band shell provides a stunning stage for hundreds of musical events every year visitors of all ages will love.

Venice Beach is a hub of art, entertainment, cuisine and shopping, known for its free-spirited, bohemian culture. Whether you’re strolling on the boardwalk or dining on the waterfront, you’ll be swept up in the fun-loving community of this beach town.

The world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-visit on any trip to Los Angeles. Originating in the late 1950’s, this iconic landmark now comprises of over 2,600 stars with an average of two new stars being added every month. Visitors are free to watch these ceremonies.

As one of the best ways to see the stunning views of Los Angeles, a hike through the Hollywood Hills is a must. With a range of different routes for beginners to avid adventurers, visitors can make their way close by the off-limits "Hollywood" sign

Opened in 1974 by J. Paul Getty, the Getty Museum showcases art and exhibitions across two campuses, the Getty Centre and Getty Villa. The first is home to Western Art from as early as the middle ages, while the Getty Villa houses art from Ancient Greece and Rome.

Originating in July 1934, the Farmers Market gained permanent stalls in just three months. Today, it is a hub of international cuisine, including fresh produce and authentic restaurants, and even offers tours to allow visitors to try many global delicacies.

What was created to dispose of sewage in 1909 has become a national icon. Over the years it has gained an amusement park, an aquarium, space for concerts and much more. Visitors can also fish or boat on the waters around the pier, an age-old tradition.

Visitors can discover the magic of Hollywood in a fascinating tour of the renowned Warner Brothers Studios. These tours combine the Golden age of Hollywood along with current TV and film production, bringing visitors to real-life working sets and classic memorabilia.

Bringing the magic of Disney to LA, Disneyland Park is a must-visit for travellers of all ages, featuring thrilling rides, exclusive shopping and lively entertainment. Visitors can also meet and greet their favourite characters and add an autograph to their books.

Boasting hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and even rock climbing, this pleasant Californian park and nature reserve is perfect for outdoorsy cruisers, while nature-lovers can spot a number of interesting plants as well as gophers and even mountain lions.