The City of Angels always hovers between dream and reality. Once a near-forgotten colonial outpost, the pueblo metamorphosed into an agrarian paradise before reinventing itself as a movie colony. Perhaps no other city owes so much to the technological innovations of the 20th century, from the automobile to the airplane. Little wonder that LA is oft described as the “dream machine.” In LA, reinvention is a way of life. Yet this talent for change has created a city with a rich ethnic diversity and a sizzling culture. LA is the source for trends that migrate across the country and then the world. Where else can you enjoy a Thai taco or munch on a kosher burrito? Or travel from downtown’s high rises to the beaches of Malibu, shopping in Beverly Hills along the way?

Los Angeles is a port of embarkation and disembarkation for some cruises.

One of the most stunning, natural locales on earth, the Monterey Peninsula, with its jagged coastline, deep blue waters, marine sanctuaries and cooling cypress forests, is so jaw-droppingly beautiful it has inspired artists and writers Robert Louis Stevenson and John Steinbeck on its fabled shores. Just 120 miles south of San Francisco, Monterey was first settled by the Rumsien, a Native American tribe; then, European settlers established a Royal Presidio and Mission in 1770, today one the most authentically restored Franciscan missions. Monterey’s friendly community takes pride in its maritime heritage. A walk down iconic Cannery Row reveals its past as the West’s sardine capital, and the world renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium is a celebration of all creatures of the sea. Top it off with freshly caught seafood and a tasting of local, hand-crafted wines for a perfect day. Nature lovers will relish the opportunity to bike along tree-lined trails or drive the 17-mile road, a spectacular stretch of coastline real estate that includes Carmel, the seaside, star-studded town that boasts cottage-style curio shops, tiny candy stores, cafes and fashionable boutiques, and the legendary Pebble Beach Golf Course. From sandy beaches to salt-water taffy, Monterey offers the quintessential California experience to those lucky enough to grace its shores.

Cable cars, the Golden Gate rising from the fog – welcome to San Francisco, arguably the most romantic and cosmopolitan city in the United States. San Francisco has it all: a colorful history, superb restaurants, sophisticated museums, world-class shopping, and that elusive air of romance and abandon that’s part of the tang of the city.

Known as a place of infinite beauty, affectionate locals and endless sunshine, San Diego has become one of America’s favorite cities. Located in the southwest corner of California, close to the border of Mexico, San Diego has a distinct cross-cultural feel, part sun-drenched Mediterranean atmosphere, part south-of-the-border zest and part quintessential California beach town.

The history of San Diego is rooted in its Spanish and Mexican past. San Diego was declared the capital of upper and lower Baja only four years after Mexico gained its independence in 1821. Less than thirty years later, the United States declared war on Mexico and within two years the Treaty of Guadalupe Hildalgo was signed creating the current borders between Mexico and the United States.

The city continues to prosper with a population exceeding one million. World-renowned attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, the Salk Institute, Sea World, La Jolla and the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge have created a strong tourism industry for the area. But undoubtedly what attracts visitors from around the world is the city’s breathtaking natural beauty, superb coastline and near-perfect weather.

Ensenada is located 70 miles south of the international border and only a 90-minute drive from San Diego. Visitors are drawn to Ensenada’s warm Mediterranean climate, friendly atmosphere and easy access by land, air, and sea.

Ensenada has become Mexico’s second most visited port of call for major cruise lines and pleasure boats.

The City of Angels always hovers between dream and reality. Once a near-forgotten colonial outpost, the pueblo metamorphosed into an agrarian paradise before reinventing itself as a movie colony. Perhaps no other city owes so much to the technological innovations of the 20th century, from the automobile to the airplane. Little wonder that LA is oft described as the “dream machine.” In LA, reinvention is a way of life. Yet this talent for change has created a city with a rich ethnic diversity and a sizzling culture. LA is the source for trends that migrate across the country and then the world. Where else can you enjoy a Thai taco or munch on a kosher burrito? Or travel from downtown’s high rises to the beaches of Malibu, shopping in Beverly Hills along the way?

Los Angeles is a port of embarkation and disembarkation for some cruises.