Pilanesberg National Park is a protected wildlife area in South Africa’s North West province, located within an ancient volcanic crater near Sun City. The park covers about 55,000 hectares and contains a varied landscape of hills, valleys, open grassland, woodland, and seasonal watercourses
Heron Island is a true coral cay right on the Great Barrier Reef. Here you can swim straight off the beach to an endless garden of coral where the waters are literally teeming with beautifully coloured fish and marine life.
Tonga is distinctly different to its neighboring island nations. This Polynesian kingdom, made up of 170 islands, carries a proud history that dates back over 3,000 years. On the main island of Tongatapu, travelers can explore ancient stone structures like the Haʻamonga ʻa Maui Trilithon—sometimes called the Stonehenge of the Pacific. Royal tombs in Lapaha offer a glimpse into the lineage of Tonga’s kings, while village life remains guided by customs that have changed little over centuries.
Madang, perched on the edge of Astrolabe Bay, feels like a well-kept secret of Papua New Guinea that’s framed by lush jungles and dotted with volcanic isles. Every June, Madang pulses with energy at the annual Madang Festival. Villages from across the province gather for ceremonies where dancers don feathered costumes, shells, and body paint. The beat of kundu drums rises through the air and stories woven in movement.
In the newer area you will find excellent hotels, chic shops, and good restaurants. Near the old downtown commercial center, behind the Catedral Metropolitana, and a block off Central Park, the Central Market where everything made or produced in the country is sold.
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence is a city that enchants with its blend of historical charm and vibrant modernity. Founded by the Romans in 123 BC, Aix-en-Provence, often simply called Aix, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Stroll along the Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard that exemplifies the city's elegance with its grand fountains and historic buildings, including the beautiful Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) and the imposing Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, known for its remarkable Romanesque and Gothic features.
Aix-en-Provence is also celebrated for its lively arts scene and as the birthplace of renowned painter Paul Cézanne. Art enthusiasts can explore the Paul Cézanne National Museum, which showcases a rich collection of his works and offers insights into his creative process. The city is dotted with various art galleries and studios, reflecting its deep-rooted artistic spirit. The Granet Museum is another highlight, housing an impressive collection of works from the Renaissance to contemporary art.
The charm of Aix-en-Provence extends to its bustling markets and gastronomic delights. The city's markets, such as the Place Richelme Market, offer an array of local produce, cheeses, and pastries, making it a delightful experience for food lovers. Don’t miss out on trying traditional Provençal specialties like ratatouille and bouillabaisse at one of the local bistros.
Fun Fact: Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its natural hot springs, which have been used for their therapeutic properties since Roman times. You can visit Les Thermes Sextius, a modern spa complex that continues this ancient tradition, offering a luxurious experience amidst the historical backdrop of the city
Other Popular Destinations in France
Paris
France's capital and most populated city, Paris is an alluring destination and an essential stop for any global traveler. A center of fashion, gastronomy, and the arts. Major tourist attractions in the City of Lights include the Eiffel Tower (such great heights!), the Louvre (home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo), the Arc de Triomphe, and Grand Palais.
Strasbourg
This vibrant and picturesque city sits near the German border and is the 2nd most popular tourist city in France. Its historic city center is classified a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and the Stasbourg Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture.