Otavalo is a city in Ecuador’s Imbabura Province, set in a high Andean valley surrounded by mountains, farmland, and volcanic landscapes. It is best known for its Indigenous Kichwa population and its long-standing textile and craft traditions. The city sits between Imbabura and Mojanda volcanoes, with the peaks of the surrounding Andes visible from many parts of the valley.
This charming island town acts as a gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal National Park. Known for its brilliantly colored buildings, visitors can spend numerous hours relaxing in restaurants, cafes, and pubs, savoring the flavors of Mayan and Spanish-influenced dishes. Surrounded by Lake Peten Itza and vibrant rainforest, water sports and nature ventures are a must!
Part of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda is an island in the Caribbean famous for The Baths National Park, whose natural geologic granite formations dot the island's beaches and create stunning tidal pools and grottoes.
Mostar, a picturesque city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Renowned for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), this 16th-century Ottoman structure arches gracefully over the Neretva River, symbolizing the city’s historical role as a bridge between East and West.
Puerto Blest is a remote destination within Nahuel Huapi National Park in Argentina’s Río Negro Province, set at the western end of Lago Nahuel Huapi near the border with Chile. Surrounded by dense Andean-Patagonian forest, steep mountains, and clear waterways, it has a more secluded character than the resort city of Bariloche. Puerto Blest is most commonly reached by boat across Lago Nahuel Huapi, making the journey itself an important part of the experience.
Discover the charm and history of Krems, Austria, a city nestled along the picturesque Danube River and the gateway to the enchanting Wachau Valley. With origins dating back to Roman times, Krems is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders. Explore the Krems Old Town, where you’ll find well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Steiner Tor and the Gothic Church of St. Veit. The city's charming streets and historic buildings offer a glimpse into its rich past.
Krems is also renowned for its vibrant wine culture, set against the backdrop of the Wachau Valley. The valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its terraced vineyards and scenic beauty. Indulge in the local wines by visiting the Krems Wine Museum, or take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards to experience the region's renowned Grüner Veltliner, a staple of Austrian viticulture.
Art and culture thrive in Krems, with institutions such as the Kunsthalle Krems showcasing contemporary art from around the globe. The Karikaturmuseum Krems offers a unique look at caricature and satire, providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors. The city’s Kunstmeile Krems cultural mile links several key cultural venues, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Slogan: "Krems: Where History Meets the Vine."
Fun Fact: Krems is located in the Wachau Valley, a region so picturesque that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its medieval castles and stunning landscapes.
Visit Krems between May and September to enjoy the best of the city's festivals, wine harvests, and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring its historical sites and scenic surroundings.
Other Popular Destinations in Austria
Vienna
Vienna has a long memory. Once the capital of the Habsburg Empire, the city still carries signs of its imperial past in its palaces, concert halls, and wide boulevards. Visitors can walk through the Hofburg complex, where emperors once ruled, or tour the opulent rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, which features 1,441 rooms and a maze in its gardens. But Vienna’s many historic buildings now house contemporary art museums, cafés, and institutions that reflect the city’s modern identity.
Dürnstein
West of Vienna, the quaint town of Dürnstein lies on the banks of the iconic Danube and is the perfect destination for river cruising, sightseeing, and enjoying the best of Austrian culture. Though small, this picturesque village offers plenty to see and do.