WE'LL CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE THE WORLD.
Once upon a time, and not so very long ago, an ocean liner was the only way to see the world. Well, here at Azamara, we believe it still is.
In the span of one vacation, you can journey to multiple destinations with no packing or unpacking...or leaving items behind in the process. You don''t have to worry about missing a connecting flight or extra transportation costs, let alone finding a parking spot. (And on Azamara's smaller-sized ships, we can drop you off at the doorsteps of great cities like Nice, Seville, and Hong Kong.)
With the added convenience of "a floating hotel" that follows you all over the world, your accommodation costs are already covered. So you can spend more time enjoying your vacation, and a lot less time -and money- on figuring out where you are going to stay. When you go cruising, not only do you have a variety of restaurants to choose from, but your meals are also included along the way (and on Azamara ships, your drinks are, too).
And while planes, trains, and automobiles offer less than spacious seating and practically nothing to entertain you, on a cruise you'll be able to unwind in between ports with a wide choice of complimentary activities, nightly shows, and enrichment programs, or enjoy a little "me time" with spa treatments and personal training sessions. Finally, at the end of the day, you can fall asleep in a wonderfully comfortable stateroom with all the amenities of a boutique hotel, complete with 24-hour room service, and then wake up in a new town or country...or even continent.
So really, when you think about it, the question shouldn't be, "Why cruise?" but "Why not?"
The Drawing Room
This library is one of the quiet jewels of Azamara, a peaceful and beautifully appointed space for reading or relaxing after dinner. Browse the collection and feel free to borrow the library books.
Card Room & In Touch
On the starboard side of the Living Room, guests will find the Card Room for those who love a round of Bridge or other games. Four computers and interactive table tops are available for guest use during the voyage.
Photo shop
Our photographers capture both fun and professional photos throughout the voyage, whether it is your portrait, or photos of the destinations you visit. You can also find an assortment of supplies for your own photographic endeavors.
Indulgences
Aptly named, Indulgences will satisfy your desires for the finer things in life. If you are looking for designer jewelry, it's the perfect place to window shop or to find that extra special purchase.
The Pursuit Shop
It's one-stop shopping in The Pursuit Shop. Apparel, sundries, handbags, candies, souvenirs and lots more await. If you find that you forgot to pack something, chances are you'll find it in The Pursuit Shop.
Welcome to Dreamland
Nights in Private Places is an unforgettable evening of luxurious pampering for two with your every need attended to by a personal butler. You'll start the night by stepping into your own private world to enjoy champagne and canapes before dining on a sumptuous buffet complete with fresh seafood and meats cooked on a sizzling hot stone grill.
After a romantic dinner, raise a glass to each other in the The Sanctum Terrace and then wrap yourselves in plush Frette robes. As night falls, flickering candles add to the romance of your hideaway. And when you're ready for sleep, we'll turn down your outdoor bed (or close a roof panel and curtains if you prefer) so you can spend an incredible night under the stars.
"Sleeping under the stars was one of the best evenings in our life, and an experience that we will never forget." - Bill & Bibi
By reservation onboard only. $395 per couple.
Aqualina Restaurant
If you're in the mood for fantastic Italian-inspired cuisine, make a reservation at Aqualina, one of our onboard specialty restaurants. Aqualina will satisfy your taste for sumptuous fare in a relaxed, yet positively chic atmosphere.
Prime C Restaurant
If steak and seafood are on your mind, then make your way over to Prime C. Full of atmosphere and loaded with flavor, this specialty restaurant surely aims to please all who enter. The broad wooden floors and rich paneling are more than inviting and the steaks will melt in your mouth.
Windows Cafe
Take in the fresh breeze at an outdoor table in Windows Cafe, our casual buffet offering made-to-order breakfasts and a large variety of lunch and dinner options. Choices change daily and include fresh sushi, stir-frys and pastas, salads, an assortment of entrees and sides, a carving station and sumptuous desserts.
The Patio and Swirl & Top
While a casual "pool grill" during the day, in the evening this venue will be completely transformed into a sit-down al fresco dining experience. Nice tablecloths and candles will set the mood while a reimagined menu will be served by our Pool Grill wait staff. In addition, a self-serve frozen yogurt station - Swirl & Top - can conclude your meal with a variety of flavors and your choice of toppings.
Discoveries Restaurant
With open seating and delicious nightly selections, our main restaurant is not to be missed. You'll find all your classic dinner favorites, very likely with a different twist, like gulf shrimp with cognac and garlic or a filet mignon with black truffle sauce. What's more, open seating provides you the opportunity to dine at your leisure.
Swirl & Top
And for a little touch of whimsy, a self serve frozen yogurt station Swirl & Top offers a variety of different flavors that will suite any taste buds.
The Living Room
The idea of the Living Room is just that. It's the perfect space for guests throughout the day and evening to engage in lively conversations, take in interesting speakers, peruse art, play a game of cards, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, wines & tapas, delightful music, or simply relax with a good book.
Pool Bar
Our Pool Bar serves refreshments while enjoying the Pool during the day, and cocktails of your choice in the evening.
Sunset Veranda
Adjacent to Windows Cafe, the Sunset Veranda is a bright, welcoming outdoor patio with covered and open-air seating. ItÂ’s the perfect place for dining alfresco, enjoying a refreshing beverage, taking in the sights of your favorite port, or simply watching the world sail by.
Discoveries Bar
Located just outside Azamara's main restaurant, this congenial bar is a favorite gathering place for pre- and post-dinner conversation and drinks. Bar service includes a full selection of fine wines, mixed drinks, and premium spirits...plus the entertaining banter of Azamara's friendly bartenders.
Cabaret Lounge
Enjoy live performances of professional full-stage musical revues, classical soloists, bands and other entertainment in our Cabaret Lounge featuring a full bar. You could see as many as four distinctly different shows while onboard. And considering the cost of theater and entertainment tickets back home, isn't that nice?
The Den Powered by AFAR
Available on the Azamara PursuitSM and Azamara Quest this lounge exemplifies our dedication to Destination Immersion experiences. Through a partnership with AFAR-a publication focused on experiential travel-The Den inspires you with tools to travel to all corners of the world. Indulge in an AFAR-themed drink from the nearby Spirits, and engage in one of our destination-focused activities.
The Pool
While spending daytime sun-drenched and relaxed by the pool, don't think of missing Azamara's famous White Night party held at least once on every cruise (weather permitting). Colorful decor and linen-draped tables, a fabulous buffet feast, and boutique wines on the house make this an event like no other. Not to forget the fun and fast-paced show our entertainment team puts on.
Fitness Center
Keep up your fitness routine or embark on a new one in our onboard Fitness Center. Take part in yoga at sunset or toning Pilates; our onboard wellness consultant is there to assist you every step.
The Sanctum Spa
Let our Spa transport you to a whole new world with treatments inspired by rituals from exotic cultures. You'll also find a hair salon, the Sanctum Terrace with a Thalassotherapy pool, and an assortment of the finest spa products. The Sanctum Spa also includes a nail bar and pedicure area, and dedicated stations for barber services, teeth whitening, and hair services, along with the Medi-spa and acupuncture clinic.
Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed, some staterooms feature sofa bed, 40" flat-screen TV, veranda, refrigerator with mini-bar, thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe, and hand-held hairdryer. Category 08 with obstructed views.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Two lower beds convertible to queen size; some with sofa bed; flat-screen television; refrigerator with mini-bar; thermostat-controlled air conditioning, direct-dial telephone and voicemail; desk; in-room safe; hand-held hairdryer. Accessible stateroom features: Stateroom door width: at least 33 inches; bathroom door width: at least 34 inches; no doorsill to get into stateroom; ramped bathroom thresholds; bathroom grab bars; lowered sink and stateroom vanity; roll-in showers; fold-down shower bench; hand-held showerheads; lowered closet rod; refrigerator in stateroom (upon request); adjustable height commode chairs (upon request).
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. 40" flat-screen television. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. 40" flat-screen television. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps. Stateroom door width: at least 32 inches. Bathroom door width: at least 32 inches. No doorsill to get into stateroom. Ramped bathroom thresholds. Bathroom grab bars. Lowered sink and stateroom vanity. Roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs. Fold-down shower bench. Lowered closet rod. Refrigerator in stateroom (upon request). Adjustable height commode chairs (upon request). Accessible balconies (selected staterooms).
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with elegant contemporary decor in 2016. Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom. Master bedroom with one king size bed and a 40" flat-screen television. 55" flat-screen television in living room. Marble master bathroom with shower. Journey and Quest suites feature a tub.. Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom. Spacious veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Completely refurbished with elegant contemporary decor in 2016. Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom. Master bedroom with one king size bed and a 40" flat-screen television. 55" flat-screen television in living room. Marble master bathroom with shower. Journey and Quest suites feature a tub.. Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom. Spacious veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed. Spacious and comfortable sitting area. 55" flat-screen television in sitting area and roomy bathroom with shower, some also feature a tub. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar,thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe and hand-held hair dryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed. Spacious and comfortable sitting area. 55" flat-screen television in sitting area and roomy bathroom with shower, some also feature a tub. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar,thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe and hand-held hair dryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Newly built suites in 2016 with an elegant organic decor. Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed. Spacious glass-enclosed bathtub. Separate rain shower. Comfortable sitting area. 55" flat-screen television in sitting area. In-room spa music. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. Comfortable sitting area with 40" flat-screen TV. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. Comfortable sitting area with 40" flat-screen TV. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet, terry bathrobes and slippers, 24-hour room service, "About Rose" toiletries sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries, welcome fruit basket at embarkation, fresh-cut flowers, tote bag, complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars, complimentary shoe-shine service, turndown treats, and daily news bulletin.
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
Convertible Sofa Bed
Inside Stateroom Door Location
Wheelchair-Accessible stateroom
One Upper Berth
New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.
Christchurch was founded in 1850 by members of the Church of England, who wanted a little bit of heaven on earth. They succeeded, and today the city takes great pride in its spacious layout and distinctive English-style buildings in elegant grey stone. The River Avon winds through Christchurch, along parks and gardens that cover one third of the city.
Dunedin is actually a collection of small towns, great sights, and enjoyable atmospheres.The flora and wildlife are plentiful, and Dunedin is loaded with wonderful historic buildings and fabulous architecture.
Milford Sound is simply stunning. In Maori legend, the fiords were created not by rivers of ice, but by Tu Te Raki Whanoa, a godly figure who came wielding a magical adze and uttering incantations. Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is without doubt his finest sculpture. Whatever the fiord's mood, teeming with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you.
Australia's "Garden City" rejoices in its greenery, from the Fitzroy Gardens to the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens. Hiding behind the sky-scrapers along the Yarra River are the graceful 19th-century mansions of the city's Gold Rush years. Sample one of the sixty different international cuisines, which make Melbourne the food capital of Australia.
Sydney is Australia''s showcase: the oldest settlement, the largest and most thriving city, the cultural melting pot. It curves around idyllic Port Jackson, where sandstone cliffs and bright islands complement the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Wander the cobbled colonial streets of the historic Rocks quarter, or tour the mansions of Watson''s Bay.
The Great Barrier Reef city of Cairns is the northernmost city of Queensland and is located amidst endless stretches of white sandy beach, attracting visitors from around the world. Although Cairns is the scuba-diving capital of the Great Barrier Reef, you can also wander along the Esplanade, with its remarkable views over Trinity Bay, or explore the Heritage Walk with its fascinating insights into the city's history.
Named after evolutionist Charles Darwin, this tropical city on the top end of Australia is a former frontier town with a rough-and-tumble past. Darwin's growth was achieved back in 1871 with the discovery of gold at Pine Creek, and today a number of historic buildings from that era remain. Darwin is also the center of the aboriginal community, the world's oldest culture. From here, you can visit Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage Site renowned not only for its Australian wildlife but Aboriginal rock art.
One of Asia's great success stories, this island republic has merged diverse cultures into a dynamic and thriving nation. Clean, modern and full of green gardens, its neighborhoods reflect the Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arab and European backgrounds of its past. After sampling the legendary shopping, retire to Raffles Hotel's famous bar and toast Maugham, Kipling and Noel Coward with a Singapore Sling.
After 20 years of isolation, this history-laden Vietnamese capital will charm and fascinate you with her vibrant sights. Formerly Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a blend of magnificent French colonial architecture set against spacious boulevards thronged with trishaws, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians. Leave time to shop in the Ben Thanh Market or wander in the landmark Reunification Hall. The more adventurous may opt for an excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong in hiding from Allied troops.
In 1744, Southern Vietnam was controlled under the control of Nguyen. At this point in history, Hue resided as capitol of Vietnam. When the control of the city was taken away from the rebels with the defeat by Nguyen Ann in 1802, The Nguyen family dynasty began. During the resignation of the last emperor in 1945, this ended the dynasty of the Nguyen Family. Regardless of the damages as a result of the 1968 Tet offensive that occurred during the American War, this beautiful city it still entails architectural findings.
Through all of the damages due to natural disasters and wars, Hue sustained its ancient appearance. This ancient capital contains palaces, walls, and royal tombs. Considering the history and heritage that Hue contains, makes it Vietnam's most priceless possession. On December 11, 1993, Hue was appointed the status of being a World Culture Heritage by UNESCO's Director General, Federico Mayor.
One of Hue's main attractions would be the Citadel, which is constructed around the natural beauties just north of the Perfume River. The construction of this structure was built from 1805 to 1832. This structure has a circumference of 10,000 m, a height of 6.6 m and a thickness of about 21cm. It contains a dirt filled center and an outer layer of bricks. The Citadel is positioned just southeast of Mount Ngu Binh (Royal Screen Mount) and within a view point of the Ta Thanh Long (Left Green Dragon) and Huu Bach Ho (Right White Tiger).
Along with the Citadel, Hue also possesses structures as the Ngo Mon, which was built in 1833, The Palace of Supreme Harmony, and Royal Tombs. All of these magnificent works of art can be view upon your visit. We'll reserve all of the details of these architectures for your viewing pleasure.
Hong Kong is the cosmopolitan hub of the Far East. This former British colony reverted to Chinese control in 1997, yet the culture-rich atmosphere remains. See the Wong Tai Sin Temple, tour local markets and the floating village of Aberdeen. Take the Tram to the top of Victoria Peak for one of the world''s most exciting views, or cross the harbor aboard one of the famous Star Ferries. After shopping and exploring, enjoy high tea at the favored retreat of many world travelers-the Peninsula Hotel.
Famous for its succulent Kobe beef and cosmopolitan flair, this booming port town sits between the Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay. It contains a remarkable cultural mix of Swiss chalets, Moslem mosques and Russian Orthodox churches tucked between traditional Japanese buildings. A cable car ascends to the summit of Mount Rokko, a national park.
Set on a bay in the Inland Sea, Hiroshima was the infamous site of the first atomic bomb explosion of August, 1945. But perhaps the best reason to visit Hiroshima is the enchanting island of Miyajima with its famous Itsukushima Shinto shrine, considered one of Japan's three most beautiful sights. Its famous torii stands just offshore, a tall, vermilion-colored symbol of Japan, which appears to float during high tide.
Korea''s "museum without walls" is akin only to China in its depth and cultural wonder. From Pusan, you can journey to the ancient Silla capital of Kyongju, a dynasty which reigned in Korea for almost a thousand years. Today this small provincial town is virtually a museum without walls, dotted with many splendid ruins. Nearby, the forested mountains and valleys shelter hundreds of beautiful Buddhist shrines including the renowned Sokkuram Grotto, and Tongdosa and Pulguksa Temples. Pusan is also a shopper''s mecca and Korea''s vital southern link to Japanese and American trade.
One of Japan's most historic cities, Nagasaki was a major port, trading with the Portuguese and Dutch in the 16th century. You can still see this colonial legacy in the brick buildings, old forts, canals and curving cobblestone streets. On a hill overlooking the bay, beautiful Glover Mansion, the setting of Madame Butterfly, is typical of the fine homes built by wealthy foreign residents. But Nagasaki's ties with Korea and China are equally apparent in the famous Chinese temple, a large Chinese colony and the numerous fine Korean and Chinese restaurants.
This large city is an excursion base from which to explore the dramatic coastlines, national parks and volcanic mountains of Kyushu, Japan's third largest island. Mount Sakurajima, an active volcano, can be reached by ferry. To the north, Kirishima-Yaku National Park is a scenic area of smoking volcanoes, craters and lakes. South of the city, Ibusuki, the island's most popular seaside resort, welcomes kimono-clad bathers to its sandy beaches and warm, underwater springs.