Between them, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth will visit 20 Caribbean ports in 2025, as well as journeying around the Mediterranean and voyaging through Alaskan waters. Cunard adventures start before you even board the ship, with exclusive booking perks when you book your flight through Cunard, including a guarantee that they will look after you and get you to the ship in the event of delays or cancellations.
The Caribbean, Alaskan and Mediterranean cruises that belong on your wishlist
Some of the most immersive, unforgettable voyages to the most captivating corners of the world await when you set sail with Cunard, writes April Hutchinson
Few can match Cunard’s expertise in sailing the world’s oceans on four iconic Queens, including the newest exciting addition, Queen Anne. Guests can relax in luxury and elegance, revel in the famous White Star Service that sets all Cunard voyages apart, enjoy fabulous evenings and entertainment and savour a breadth of dining experiences in the finest restaurants and best bars at sea.
From laidback little towns and lush forested interiors to vibrant cities and idyllic beaches, the Caribbean has captivated visitors for centuries. And there’s no better way to experience the region than on Cunard’s 12-night Eastern Caribbean voyage.
In 2025 Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth will embark on her first-ever Caribbean season, offering a fresh way to explore this enchanting region in style. Guests can fly to the cruise capital of the world, boarding this elegant ship in the vibrant coastal city of Miami, which provides either a lively prelude or a flourishing finale to your Caribbean adventure.
Queen Elizabeth’s season starts on 16 October 2025, with 16 roundtrip sailings of either nine, 12 or 21 nights, including the 12-night Eastern Caribbean experience, with various departure dates from October to April 2026, where six captivating ports will dazzle and five sea days will envelop you in all the ship has to offer.
Departing from Miami, Queen Elizabeth’s itinerary is full to the brim with unforgettable activities, culture and landscapes – but not before you’re treated to two glorious sea days to make yourself at home on the ship. Sunbathe on the spacious decks by the pool, indulge in the array of delicious food and dining aboard, relax in her elegant conservatory or enjoy some of the endless onboard entertainment – all with the classic Cunard stamp of luxury.
Though there’s enough onboard to make you wonder why you’d ever leave, Queen Elizabeth’s first stop in San Juan in Puerto Rico will tempt you, temporarily, away from the sanctum of the ship. Immerse yourself in Old San Juan’s Spanish heritage, relax on Condado beach or head to El Yunque National Forest for an outdoor adventure.
Caribbean
Enjoy extra on board credit on selected 2025 and 2026 voyages Enjoy even more on board credit to spend in any way you like, on selected voyages in 2025 and 2026. With so much already included from breakfast in bed to world-class theatre, delight in deciding just how you want to spend your on board credit. A day of pampering as you sail between European cities? An unforgettable Alaskan shore experience? There’s a whole world to explore, both on and off your ship. Book by 9 December 2024. T&Cs apply. To find out more, go to cunard.com
Produced by Telegraph Media Group
Creative Director: Jonathan Clayton-Jones, Picture Editor: Alex Kelly, Commissioning Editor: Rachel Truman, Alice Treasure, Words: April Hutchinsons, Sub Editor: Tim Cumming, Project Manager: Michelle Birbeck, Web Producer: Caroline Stacey
Two Alaska excursions not to miss
Dive into the astonishing underwater world of Sitka Sound on this guided dry-suit snorkelling adventure, giving a unique opportunity to snorkel some of the richest, most productive waters in the world. You’ll encounter swaying kelp forests and beds of eelgrass filled with a variety of fish, sea stars, sun stars, sea urchins and more.
Enjoy a fully narrated, 40-mile round trip adventure along the historic, narrow-gauge railroad, built for the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. This vintage train ascends to nearly 3,000 feet, along jaw-dropping hairpin curves, over plunging gorges, past sparkling glaciers and waterfalls and across sky-high trestles. You’ll even see the original Klondike Trail of ’98 worn into the rocks.
Immerse yourself in an extraordinary wilderness: 10 nights in Alaska
In Ketchikan, a small yet vibrant fishing town, you’ll find Alaska’s largest collection of totem poles and a rich indigenous heritage. This port is also the gateway to Misty Fjords National Monument, an area of stunning natural beauty with steep-walled fjords and towering cliffs.
All along the route, the landscapes and onshore experiences are complemented by Cunard’s Insights programme. Guest speakers in the 2024 programme included Preet Chandi MBE, the British Army officer who completed the longest solo unsupported one-way polar ski journey, and Kenton Cool, one of Britain’s top high-altitude climbers.
There are myriad ways to relax too, especially with two luxurious sea days on every itinerary. You could book an ocean-inspired treatment at Mareel Wellness Spa or take an open-air wellness class. Perhaps you’d rather rifle through one of the grandest libraries at sea (with many titles specific to Alaska) or simply gaze at views from out on deck swathed in cosy blankets?
The Alaskan immersion continues at mealtimes, when the aptly named Frontier serves up a menu that champions native ingredients, including the region’s renowned seafood, with dishes that match the surrounding epic scenery. Be sure to go for the Alaskan afternoon tea one day and indulge in the Laurent Perrier Alaska Champagne Breakfast at least once on your voyage. Look out for the exclusive Taste of Alaska bar experiences across the ship, showcasing the best of the state’s beverages, from local-brewed beers to a creative twist on the classic Bloody Mary and a selection of warming hot toddies.
An unmissable highlight of any Cunard Alaska cruise is the spectacular Ice White Ball, inspired by the region’s breathtaking glacial backdrops. Dress to impress and enjoy Alaskan Gala Menu dishes.
This is so much more than just a cruise: it’s a journey through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet, with every detail designed by Cunard to enhance your experience and understanding of this fascinating part of the world.
A dry-suit adventure
Step aboard the White Pass scenic railway
Visit the Cunard website
to book your Eastern Caribbean voyage
Two Caribbean excursions not to miss
Two of Barbados’s most elegant and historic properties can be experienced in one tour, including the Atlantis Hotel which dates back to the 1800s, and Sunbury Plantation, which is even older, dating back to 1660. Enjoy an afternoon tea at the house, which boasts a superb collection of antiques, and wander its beautifully manicured gardens and grounds.
Island drive and tea
at Sunbury Plantation,
Bridgetown, Barbados
St Lucia
private car tour
Giving guests a real chance to explore the destination, Cunard’s private car tour on St Lucia offers the ultimate in flexibility and comfort. You can choose what you want to explore, including famous landmarks, breathtaking scenery or cultural highlights. Your private guide will share local knowledge and fascinating island secrets – all you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy.
Mediterranean
Alaska
Antigua, with its vibrant capital of St John’s, is another highlight, where you can meander historic streets or hike up to Fort Barrington for panoramic views. Meanwhile Antigua’s 365 beaches offer endless relaxation opportunities, and a visit to the Unesco-listed Nelson’s Dockyard is a must.
St Lucia’s capital Castries blends natural beauty with cultural heritage too. Wander around the harbour and discover the largest cathedral in the Caribbean then head south to the beautiful Pitons, twin volcanic peaks that are the island’s icon. Whether you’re hiking, sampling local delicacies, or taking a “tree-to-bar” chocolate experience, St Lucia offers a truly immersive visit.
On this 12-night Eastern Caribbean sailing, Queen Elizabeth also calls at Barbados, giving you a chance to explore Unesco-listed Historic Bridgetown, soaking up the charming colonial architecture and vibrant markets. The ship has a late evening sail-away, so there will be plenty of time to savour Bajan cuisine such as fried flying fish and cou-cou.
Lesser-known island stops on this voyage include Sint Maarten, one of the few places in the world where two European powers, France and the Netherlands, coexist peacefully on a small island, while another gem is Road Town, the capital of the British Virgin Islands. Admire the pastel-coloured buildings of this yachting hub on Tortola or go further afield on the islands to soak up breathtaking views around Mount Sage National Park and beaches such as Smuggler’s Cove.
The vibrancy of the Caribbean experience is echoed on board in the entertainment and dining. On Queen Elizabeth, you’ll find many opportunities
to enjoy al fresco days on board, from deck barbecues and Caribbean
inspired bites to frozen cocktails by the poolside, handmade gelato,
and thirst-quenching local beers.
Select destination
All of Cunard’s Queens offer a wealth of activities onboard, and on languorous sea days, you can make the most of unique experiences designed for body and mind – from fascinating Insights talks to ocean-inspired wellness retreats. For a heightened level of luxury accommodation and exclusive dining, Cunard offers its Grills suites.
Heavenly trips such as the 100-plus night Full World Voyage and the iconic Transatlantic Crossings offer incredible sights and immersive experiences, with cruises available in all corners of the world, expertly steered and always elevated by Cunard, whether you choose to explore the Caribbean, Alaska or the Mediterranean.
On languorous sea days, you can enjoy of unique experiences designed for body and mind
A journey through paradise:
the 12-night Eastern Caribbean voyage
Immerse yourself San Juan’s picturesque old town and Spanish heritage
Queen Anne’s Pavilion Pool is the perfect place to relax and unwind
Indulge in Caribbean inspired bites and frozen cocktails at Queen Elizabeth’s Commodore Club
The 12-night Eastern Caribbean voyage
Relax on your stateroom’s sumptuous bed and private balcony (left) as Queen Elizabeth sets sail for a new destination (right)
Sailing through the Inside Passage you might be lucky enough to spot humpback whales
Very little can rival the wild beauty of Alaska with its towering glaciers, vast untamed forests, fjord-strewn coastlines and abundant wildlife. Exploring these majestic landscapes on board a Cunard Queen takes the sense of wonder to the next level. Travel around this beguiling region in elegance and luxury onboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth with a range of itineraries crafted to immerse guests in both the region’s natural wonders and unique culture.
Cunard’s 10-night roundtrip voyage from Seattle is perhaps the perfect itinerary, brimming with wow-factor experiences while allowing plenty of time for enjoying all that life on board brings.
Sailing through the Inside Passage, the world’s longest sheltered inland waterway, you’ll witness breathtaking scenery, hear the creaks of shifting ice and spot brown bears along the shoreline and humpback whales in the deep waters.
Stops include Icy Strait Point on Chichagof Island – just outside Hoonah, the largest Tlingit village in the world – and Sitka, a picturesque town on Baranof Island. Its Russian and Tlingit heritage is evident in its onion-domed churches and the totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park.
Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is a hub for whale watching and gateway to the stunning Mendenhall Glacier – an unmissable sight. Explore gold rush-era architecture in town or take an exhilarating floatplane adventure out to Admiralty Island to observe brown bears.
The gateway to the Klondike, Skagway is steeped in the legacy of the 1890s gold rush too, evident in its historic streets and the National Klondike Historical Park.
As well as onshore experiences, this voyage features scenic cruising alongside spectacular natural wonders such as Glacier Bay National Park, bound to be a highlight of this voyage. As you sail past this ethereal landscape, which is home to over 1,000 glaciers, a US National Park Service ranger will tell you all about it from the bridge.
The 10-Night Alaskan voyage
Visit the Cunard website
to book your Alaskan voyage
Miami
Sargasso Sea
Caribbean Sea
Road Town
Philipsburg
St John's
Bridgetown
Castries
San Juan
Juneau
Gulf of
Alaska
Icy Strait Point
Skagway
Ketchikan
Seattle
Victoria
Endicott Arm
In Baranof, there is an average of one coastal brown bear for every eight humans in the area
Glacier Bay National Park
After a few blissful sea days, Queen Anne arrives in Heraklion, Crete. Guests can explore the vibrant city, with its 14th-century Venetian port and 16th-century Rocca a Mare fortress. From Kusadasi in Turkey, Cunard guests can visit one of the most impressive ancient cities in the world: Ephesus. Built in the 10th century BC, it is home to the Temple of Hadrian and was once the centre of commerce in the Greek empire.
A stop at Piraeus offers another unmissable tour to uncover the classical sites of Athens followed by the picturesque island of Santorini, famed for its steep cliffs and sunsets. Next is the ‘door of Sicily’, Messina, where guests can enjoy a day ashore followed by a journey through the Strait of Messina. Connecting the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian Sea, the narrow waterway (just two miles at its narrowest point) is steeped in ancient legends and has a rich biodiversity, home to swordfish, storks, flamingos and Egyptian vultures.
Spain is the next stop: this time the Andalusian city of Malaga, one of the oldest continually habited cities in Europe. It’s also the leaping-off point for Granada, where the Moorish architecture of the Alhambra will take guests’ breath away.
The myriad flavours of the Mediterranean continue onboard, with regional wines to sip and specialty menus at Tramonto to savour. Featuring authentic regional produce, expect some familiar Med favourites along with contemporary spins, from salt cod Arancini to risotto al formaggio. There’s no better way to enjoy the very best of the Mediterranean.
Make the most of the Mediterranean:
a 19-night roundtrip
Mediterranean on shore experiences not to miss
Immerse yourself in cinematic history as you visit key locations in Sicily that were used for The Godfather films, such as Bar Vitelli in the town of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò, a charming little village used as a location for The Godfather Part III. Wander to the Church of Sant’Agostino and see the Baroque Chiesa Madre, as well as soaking up plenty of beautiful Sicilian panoramas.
Godfathers' footsteps
in Messina, Sicily
Best of Kefalonia,
Greece
Famed as the island where Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is set, Kefalonia has many charms, including the ancient city of Sami, a key location for the film. Enjoy the picturesque pastel-coloured houses that surround Fiskardo’s waterfront or drink in the island’s natural wonders such as Mount Ainos. The tour also takes you to Melissani Lake, a spectacular cave lake, and for photo stops to capture Myrtos Bay, the most stunning beach on the island.
Immerse yourself in the Baroque-Neoclassical architecture of the yellow-domed Catedral de Cádiz
A voyage with Cunard is the ultimate way to explore the elegant ports, vibrant cities and stunning coastlines of the Mediterranean. Its extensive range of itineraries start from April, providing the perfect spring escape to warmer climes. You can join your ship in the home ports of Trieste, Civitavecchia, Istanbul and Barcelona, or sail from Southampton. Imagine unpacking only once, then waking up in a new Mediterranean destination each day.
Already one of the world’s most illustrious cruise lines, in 2024, Cunard introduced its first new ship in 14 years, Queen Anne. Redefining elegance at sea, this new Queen offers the widest selection of dining venues, bars, entertainment and wellness facilities ever seen on a Cunard ship. And in 2025, Queen Anne will embark on a truly exceptional itinerary: the 19-night roundtrip Mediterranean and Greek Islands voyage. An unforgettable round-trip from Southampton, guests will experience some of Europe’s most historic sights, stunning islands and uncover myriad gastronomic delights en route.
In Cádiz, Spain, guests can immerse themselves in the rich history and cultural delights of this intriguing 900-year-old port. A visit to the yellow-domed Catedral de Cádiz is a must, with its Baroque-Neoclassical architecture, and the Campo del Sur offers unparalleled views. Cunard guests can also join tours to Seville from here.
Queen Anne then sets sail for Greece, allowing guests a few relaxing and luxurious sea days to immerse themselves in the Cunard onboard experience. With decadent dining experiences, an ocean-inspired spa and spacious outdoor pool decks overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean, the ship offers a travelling experience like no other.
The 19-night Mediterranean voyage
Enjoy al fresco dining aboard Queen Anne, soaking up the warm Mediterranean evenings
Visit the Cunard website
to book your Mediterranean voyage
Southampton
North Sea
Mediterranean Sea
Black Sea
Malaga
(tour to Granada)
Cadiz
(tour to Seville)
Transit Messina Strait
Messina
Heraklion
Santorini
Ephesus (Kusadasi)
Piraeus (tours to Athens)
Back to map
Back to map
Back to map
Explore St Lucia’s vibrant and mountainous landscapes with Cunard’s Eastern Caribbean voyage
Hike up to Antigua’s historic Fort Barrington for panoramic views across the island
Antigua’s 365 beaches offer endless relaxation opportunities
With a late evening sail-away from Barbados, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the local culture and the beautiful sunset
Marvel at Alaska’s breathtaking natural wonders, like the Hubbard Glacier
The spectacular Mendenhall Glacier is over 13 miles of dazzling blue glacial ice
Back aboard Queen Elizabeth, it’s only fitting to indulge in the Laurent Perrier Alaska Champagne Breakfast at least once on your voyage
Baranof Island is famed for its brown bear population
Book an ocean-inspired treatment at Mareel Wellness Spa (left) or step out on deck to take in the beautiful glacial vistas (right)
A Cunard voyage is the perfect way to explore Santorini’s famed colourful cliffside
Queen Anne redefines elegance at sea, with the widest selection of dining venues, bars, entertainment and wellness facilities ever seen on a Cunard ship
Explore the Andalusian city of Malaga, one of the oldest continually habited cities in Europe
Heraklion’s 14th-century Venetian port and 16th-century Rocca a Mare fortress make it an unmissable cultural haven
From Kusadasi, Turkey, you can visit the 10th century BC city of Ephesus
Departing from Miami, Queen Elizabeth’s itinerary is full to the brim with unforgettable activities, culture and landscapes – but not before you’re treated to two glorious sea days to make yourself at home on the ship. Sunbathe on the spacious decks by the pool, indulge in the array of delicious food and dining aboard, relax in her elegant conservatory or enjoy some of the endless onboard entertainment – all with the classic Cunard stamp of luxury.
Though there’s enough onboard to make you wonder why you’d ever leave, Queen Elizabeth’s first stop in San Juan in Puerto Rico will tempt you, temporarily, away from the sanctum of the ship. Immerse yourself in Old San Juan’s Spanish heritage, relax on Condado beach or head to El Yunque National Forest for an outdoor adventure.
From laidback little towns and lush forested interiors to vibrant cities and idyllic beaches, the Caribbean has captivated visitors for centuries. And there’s no better way to experience the region than on Cunard’s 12-night Eastern Caribbean voyage.
In 2025 Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth will embark on her first-ever Caribbean season, offering a fresh way to explore this enchanting region in style. Guests can fly to the cruise capital of the world, boarding this elegant ship in the vibrant coastal city of Miami, which provides either a lively prelude or a flourishing finale to your Caribbean adventure.
Queen Elizabeth’s season starts on 16 October 2025, with 16 roundtrip sailings of either nine, 12 or 21 nights, including the 12-night Eastern Caribbean experience, with various departure dates from October to April 2026, where six captivating ports will dazzle and five sea days will envelop you in all the ship has to offer.
Antigua, with its vibrant capital of St John’s, is another highlight, where you can meander historic streets or hike up to Fort Barrington for panoramic views. Meanwhile Antigua’s 365 beaches offer endless relaxation opportunities, and a visit to the Unesco-listed Nelson’s Dockyard is a must.
St Lucia’s capital Castries blends natural beauty with cultural heritage too. Wander around the harbour and discover the largest cathedral in the Caribbean then head south to the beautiful Pitons, twin volcanic peaks that are the island’s icon. Whether you’re hiking, sampling local delicacies, or taking a “tree-to-bar” chocolate experience, St Lucia offers a truly immersive visit.
On this 12-night Eastern Caribbean sailing, Queen Elizabeth also calls at Barbados, giving you a chance to explore Unesco-listed Historic Bridgetown, soaking up the charming colonial architecture and vibrant markets. The ship has a late evening sail-away, so there will be plenty of time to savour Bajan cuisine such as fried flying fish and cou-cou.
Lesser-known island stops on this voyage include Sint Maarten, one of the few places in the world where two European powers, France and the Netherlands, coexist peacefully on a small island, while another gem is Road Town, the capital of the British Virgin Islands. Admire the pastel-coloured buildings of this yachting hub on Tortola or go further afield on the islands to soak up breathtaking views around Mount Sage National Park and beaches such as Smuggler’s Cove.
The vibrancy of the Caribbean experience is echoed on board in the entertainment and dining. On Queen Elizabeth, you’ll find many opportunities to enjoy al fresco days on board, from deck barbecues and Caribbean inspired bites to frozen cocktails by the poolside, handmade gelato, and thirst-quenching local beers.
Relax on your stateroom’s sumptuous bed and private balcony (top) as Queen Elizabeth sets sail for a new destination
After a few blissful sea days, Queen Anne arrives in Heraklion, Crete. Guests can explore the vibrant city, with its 14th-century Venetian port and 16th-century Rocca a Mare fortress. From Kusadasi in Turkey, Cunard guests can visit one of the most impressive ancient cities in the world: Ephesus. Built in the 10th century BC, it is home to the Temple of Hadrian and was once the centre of commerce in the Greek empire.
A stop at Piraeus offers another unmissable tour to uncover the classical sites of Athens followed by the picturesque island of Santorini, famed for its steep cliffs and sunsets. Next is the ‘door of Sicily’, Messina, where guests can enjoy a day ashore followed by a journey through the Strait of Messina. Connecting the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian Sea, the narrow waterway (just two miles at its narrowest point) is steeped in ancient legends and has a rich biodiversity, home to swordfish, storks, flamingos and Egyptian vultures.
Spain is the next stop: this time the Andalusian city of Malaga, one of the oldest continually habited cities in Europe. It’s also the leaping-off point for Granada, where the Moorish architecture of the Alhambra will take guests’ breath away.
The myriad flavours of the Mediterranean continue onboard, with regional wines to sip and specialty menus at Tramonto to savour. Featuring authentic regional produce, expect some familiar Med favourites along with contemporary spins, from salt cod Arancini to risotto al formaggio. There’s no better way to enjoy the very best of the Mediterranean.
A voyage with Cunard is the ultimate way to explore the elegant ports, vibrant cities and stunning coastlines of the Mediterranean. Its extensive range of itineraries start from April, providing the perfect spring escape to warmer climes. You can join your ship in the home ports of Trieste, Civitavecchia, Istanbul and Barcelona, or sail from Southampton. Imagine unpacking only once, then waking up in a new Mediterranean destination each day.
Already one of the world’s most illustrious cruise lines, in 2024, Cunard introduced its first new ship in 14 years, Queen Anne. Redefining elegance at sea, this new Queen offers the widest selection of dining venues, bars, entertainment and wellness facilities ever seen on a Cunard ship. And in 2025, Queen Anne will embark on a truly exceptional itinerary: the 19-night roundtrip Mediterranean and Greek Islands voyage. An unforgettable round-trip from Southampton, guests will experience some of Europe’s most historic sights, stunning islands and uncover myriad gastronomic delights en route.
In Cádiz, Spain, guests can immerse themselves in the rich history and cultural delights of this intriguing 900-year-old port. A visit to the yellow-domed Catedral de Cádiz is a must, with its Baroque-Neoclassical architecture, and the Campo del Sur offers unparalleled views. Cunard guests can also join tours to Seville from here.
Queen Anne then sets sail for Greece, allowing guests a few relaxing and luxurious sea days to immerse themselves in the Cunard onboard experience. With decadent dining experiences, an ocean-inspired spa and spacious outdoor pool decks overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean, the ship offers a travelling experience like no other.
Very little can rival the wild beauty of Alaska with its towering glaciers, vast untamed forests, fjord-strewn coastlines and abundant wildlife. Exploring these majestic landscapes on board a Cunard Queen takes the sense of wonder to the next level. Travel around this beguiling region in elegance and luxury onboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth with a range of itineraries crafted to immerse guests in both the region’s natural wonders and unique culture.
Cunard’s 10-night roundtrip voyage from Seattle is perhaps the perfect itinerary, brimming with wow-factor experiences while allowing plenty of time for enjoying all that life on board brings.
Sailing through the Inside Passage, the world’s longest sheltered inland waterway, you’ll witness breathtaking scenery, hear the creaks of shifting ice and spot brown bears along the shoreline and humpback whales in the deep waters.
The Alaskan immersion continues at mealtimes, when the aptly named Frontier serves up a menu that champions native ingredients, including the region’s renowned seafood, with dishes that match the surrounding epic scenery. Be sure to go for the Alaskan afternoon tea one day and indulge in the Laurent Perrier Alaska Champagne Breakfast at least once on your voyage. Look out for the exclusive Taste of Alaska bar experiences across the ship, showcasing the best of the state’s beverages, from local-brewed beers to a creative twist on the classic Bloody Mary and a selection of warming hot toddies.
An unmissable highlight of any Cunard Alaska cruise is the spectacular Ice White Ball, inspired by the region’s breathtaking glacial backdrops. Dress to impress and enjoy Alaskan Gala Menu dishes.
This is so much more than just a cruise: it’s a journey through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet, with every detail designed by Cunard to enhance your experience and understanding of this fascinating part of the world.