This picture is from one of my fun all-girls group aboard Star Clipper while sailing from Cannes, France.

I am a travel agent with Adventure Travel and have taken five groups on Star Clipper and Royal Clipper sailings. They were all WONDERFUL.I am looking forward to more sailings in the future.

Julaine Condon
Pensacola, Florida

Puerto Banus is located on Spain’s famed Costa del Sol. Part of Marbella, Spain, the luxury marina and complex is a relatively recent travel destination, having been for a number of years a well-kept secret among the rich and famous.

Built in 1970 by José Banús, a local property developer, the marina can berth up to 915 boats — who knows, guests may find themselves docked next to the King of Saudi Arabia or another of the world’s wealthiest individuals who keep their yachts in this sunny spot.

Synonymous with the Costa del Sol (sun coast) region, Puerto Banus boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year making it the perfect place for sunbathing on the golden-sand beach. Sailing into port guests will catch views of La Concha Mountain, one of the coast’s landmarks, and glimpses of streets filled with designer boutiques and nightclubs.

In true luxury, Puerto Banus features superb shopping. Guests can head over to the Marina Banus Shopping Center or for a more local feel they can explore smaller, more traditional Spanish shops and boutiques. A must-see if visiting on a Saturday is the weekly market held in the bullring — just watch out for the matador.

The surrounding areas of Puerto Banus feature the Sierra Bermeja Mountains rising up to the north of the town and numerous golf courses are scattered nearby.

Royal Clipper will call at Puerto Banus on the 12-night Grand Mediterranean sailing departing Malaga, Spain, April 26, 2010.