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PANAMA CANAL The Panama Canal connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, crossing the narrowest stretch of the isthmus of Panama. A full transit through the 77-km-long canal takes around eight to ten hours and passes through the Gatun Lake and the Culebra Cut, an artificial valley that runs through the Continental Divide. An engineering marvel of the 20th century, the crossing passes through a series of locks that lift and lower ships 25 metres from sea level, guided by electric locomotives known as mulas. The Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage and a truly memorable experience. NEW YORK CITY, UNITED STATES At once romantic and exhilarating. From the robust streets of Lower Manhattan's financial district to the intimate warrens of Greenwich Village, the city overflows with culture, cuisine and architectural beauty. Marvel at Carnegie Hall or catch a 1920s-style jazz and blues show in Harlem. Board a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park. Browse the Museum of Modern Art or the Guggenheim. And attend the greatest shows in the world on Broadway, amid the glitter of Times Square. MANTA, ECUADOR Manta has long been linked to the rhythms of the sea. The city boasts the largest seaport in Ecuador and a bustling fish market brims with sea bass, tuna and countless other delicacies. Local Manabita fare is a celebrated gastronomic tradition and considered by Ecuadorians to be one of their country's finest cuisines. Founded as a pre-Columbian trading post known as Jocay, the city is also recognized for its heritage with craft exhibits. But the craft scene really thrives in nearby Montecristi, renowned for its original Panama hats. TORONTO, CANADA Toronto is home to a wealth of diverse cultures that each bring their own customs, traditions and food to this cosmopolitan city. More than half of the population were born outside of Toronto and the city's districts represent all corners of the globe; Greektown, Little Italy, Koreatown and Chinatown offer a literal taste of the city's renowned ethnic communities. One of Toronto's historic treasures is St. Lawrence Market, which first operated here in 1803. Today, everything from fresh farmers produce to antiques grace the stalls of its vendors. 67 Call us on 138 747 (AU), 0800 447 913 (NZ) or contact your local Viking travel agent