Bogotá, the vibrant capital of Colombia, sits high in the Andes at 2,640 meters above sea level. The city balances historic charm with modern energy, where cobblestone streets meet bold street art and colonial churches stand beside sleek galleries and cafes. At the heart of it all is La Candelaria, Bogotá’s oldest neighborhood, where travelers can visit centuries-old buildings, including the neoclassical Capitol and the richly decorated Gold Museum.
Granada, Nicaragua, founded in 1524, is one of the oldest European-established cities on the mainland of the Americas where visitors can explore cobblestone streets lined with brightly painted facades. The mustard-yellow Granada Cathedral dominates the central park and provides an easy reference point for those navigating the city on foot or by traditional horse-drawn carriage.
Nestled between two nature parks and the Rhône River, picturesque Arles will absolutely delight any traveler to the south of France. Situated near Marseille in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, Arles boasts small town charm and its architectural treasures have been heavily influenced by the city’s role as an ancient Roman capital.
Capital of Martinique, a French overseas territory, Fort-de-France is a veritable island paradise replete with striking colonial architecture, exotic flora and fauna, verdant nature parks, and sparkling beaches. Highlights of this vibrant island capital include the colorful Jardin de Balata, the cascading Fontaine Didier waterfall, and the expansive Schoelcher Library.
Raise a glass and toast Würzburg, an enchanting, Franconian wine-producing area on the Main River, and one of Germany's oldest cities. Wine bars and cellars abound here, but there's also plenty of wonderful history and striking Baroque and rococo architecture to behold.
Nestled in the picturesque Burgundy region of France, Tournus offers a charming glimpse into both its rich medieval history and its delightful contemporary culture. One of the city’s standout landmarks is the Abbey of Saint-Philibert, a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture. Founded in the 10th century, this abbey features stunning stone carvings and a tranquil cloister, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Tournus is also celebrated for its culinary heritage. The town’s location on the banks of the Saône River and its proximity to the vineyards of Burgundy mean that visitors can enjoy exquisite regional cuisine and fine wines. The local markets, such as the Place de l’Abbaye market, offer an array of fresh, locally-sourced products, perfect for sampling the flavors of the region. The town is known for its delightful restaurants that feature traditional Burgundian dishes.
Fun Fact: Tournus is home to a unique medieval clock tower, the Tour Saint-Marcel, which has been in operation since the 15th century. It’s a delightful reminder of the city’s long and storied history.
With its blend of historical significance, culinary delights, and vibrant cultural scene, Tournus invites visitors to experience the timeless charm of Burgundy.