León, in northwest Spain, is a city where Roman, medieval, and modern layers coexist. Its historical heart features the León Cathedral with its remarkable stained glass, the Basilica of San Isidoro, and winding streets that hint at centuries of trade and culture.
Durban is a big subtropical city in the north-eastern province of KwaZulu/Natal. It has been a major port since the 1850s and is home to the largest concentration of Indian-descended people in the country - Mohandas Gandhi arrived here as an indentured labourer in 1893. Today the city is better known as a holiday-makers' fun parlour with a happening nightlife.
Located off the coast of Ecuador, Floreana Island is one of the Galápagos Islands and a popular stop for gazing at a variety of wildlife, including Galápagos tortoises and flamingoes. Post Office Bay is home to the island chain's first post office site, originally established by visiting whalers in the 18th century. Though one of the smallest islands in the Galápagos, Floreana is well worth the trip!
Aitutaki is the second most visited of the magical Cook Islands and is recommended as a "must see" extension of any Rarotonga holiday. This is a place of great natural beauty and tranquility, where crystal clear waters and swaying palms provide a simple tonic to sooth away the pressures of the outside world.
Taupō, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, is built along the shores of Lake Taupō, which is the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, formed nearly two thousand years ago by a massive volcanic eruption. That eruption was so powerful, it was recorded in ancient Chinese and Roman texts, even though it occurred halfway across the world. Today, the lake is calm, clear, and central to life in the region, offering everything from trout fishing to kayaking and lakeside cycling.
Ishigaki, the vibrant hub of the Yaeyama Islands in Japan, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. As the largest island in the Yaeyama group, Ishigaki is celebrated for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters, such as the pristine Kabira Bay, famous for its turquoise hues and coral reefs. This bay is ideal for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant marine life without getting wet. Discover more about Kabira Bay on the Japan National Tourism Organization website.
The island's lush landscapes are equally captivating. The scenic Ishigaki Island Livestock Farm offers a taste of rural life with its free-range cattle and traditional Okinawan architecture. Visitors can enjoy a farm-to-table experience with locally produced beef and other regional delicacies
Cultural exploration in Ishigaki leads you to the Yonehara Palm Grove, a testament to the island's unique flora and traditional agricultural practices. This area is adorned with native palm trees and is perfect for leisurely walks amidst nature. For a deeper dive into the island’s culture, visit the Yaeyama Museum, which showcases the region's history and traditional crafts.
Fun Fact: Ishigaki is home to the famous Ishigaki beef, renowned for its exceptional quality and rich flavor. This local delicacy is a must-try for food enthusiasts visiting the island.