The region of Lapland, Finland, is a dream come true for travelers in search of a real winter wonderland. The area has long been associated with Father Christmas, reindeer and a dense, snow-covered wilderness.
Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, carries over 8,000 years of history layered into its streets. The Roman Theater, still in use today, was discovered by accident in the 1970s and now hosts operas and concerts overlooking the Rhodope Mountains. Nearby, visitors can walk the remains of a Roman stadium buried beneath the main pedestrian street, where modern shops and cafés stand above ancient foundations.
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Volterra offers a captivating journey through time with its well-preserved medieval charm and Etruscan roots. The city's history is evident as you wander through its narrow, winding streets, flanked by ancient walls that date back to the Etruscan period. The Roman Theater, built in the 1st century AD, is a testament to the city's significance in antiquity and provides an evocative glimpse into Volterra’s storied past.
The capital of Saint Maarten, the Dutch side of this two nation island, Philipsburg is located on the isthmus between Groot Baai (Great Bay) and the Salt Pond. Founded in 1733 as a free port, the city is now the home to outstanding shopping, casinos, and a variety of hotels and resorts, including nearby Mullet Bay Resort and Golf Club.
Eminently livable and a pleasure to visit, Zurich is Switzerland's largest and most affluent city. This Central European metropolis is an engine of finance and banking, and has much to offer to visitors. There are numerous art museums, fine chocolate stores, and boundless luxury shopping opportunities.
Sisimiut, Greenland's second-largest city, offers a captivating glimpse into Arctic life and stunning natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of the Davis Strait, Sisimiut is renowned for its striking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city's colorful houses, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and icy waters, create a picturesque setting that is perfect for both exploration and relaxation.
Adventure seekers will find Sisimiut a gateway to thrilling experiences. The surrounding wilderness is ideal for hiking, with trails offering breathtaking views of fjords and glaciers. In winter, the city transforms into a haven for dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. For an unforgettable Arctic adventure, consider a trip to the nearby Kangerlussuaq, where you can witness the awe-inspiring Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its calving glaciers and icy beauty.
Sisimiut also provides a unique opportunity to observe traditional Inuit culture. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Sisimiut Carnival, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy music, dancing, and vibrant parades. The local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes like whale blubber and seal meat, offers a true taste of Greenlandic life.
A fun fact about Sisimiut: It is the northernmost town in Greenland that experiences the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun during summer, where the sun does not set for several weeks. This unique experience is a highlight for many visitors and provides ample time to explore the Arctic wilderness under the eternal daylight. For the best experience, plan your visit between June and August when the weather is milder and the days are long.