Dalian is a major coastal city in Liaoning Province in northeastern China, situated on the southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula between the Yellow Sea and Korea Bay. Its long coastline, numerous bays, hills, and waterfront districts give the city a strong maritime character. Dalian is an important port and commercial center, while its urban landscape includes broad streets, public squares, parks, and historic buildings.
Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is unlike any other city in the Caribbean. With its pastel-colored buildings lining the waterfront and a layout shaped by Dutch colonial planning, the city blends European design with Caribbean culture. Its historic center, divided by Sint Anna Bay into Punda and Otrobanda, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Catembe is a coastal district of Maputo, located on the southern shore of Maputo Bay directly across the water from central Maputo. Its landscape includes sandy beaches, low coastal vegetation, open land, and views across the bay toward the capital. The district has traditionally been a quieter counterpart to Maputo, with fishing, small-scale agriculture, and coastal activities forming part of local life.
Terre-de-Haut is an island off the coast of Guadeloupe and replete with a variety of stunning viewpoints to gaze out at the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Caernarfon, a town in northwest Wales, is famed for its medieval heritage, most notably Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Edward I in the late 13th century.
Photo Credit: Photo by Victor Svistunov on Unsplash
Maio, one of Cape Verde's hidden gems, offers a serene escape with its unspoiled landscapes and charming island atmosphere. This tranquil island, part of the Cape Verde archipelago, is renowned for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. The white sandy shores of Praia do Morro, with its crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, provide the perfect setting for relaxation and sunbathing, while the surrounding salt pans showcase Maio's historical role in the salt industry.
Cultural and natural exploration awaits in Maio's diverse landscape. The island is dotted with traditional villages that offer insights into local life and customs. The vibrant Festa de São João in the town of Vila do Maio is a highlight, featuring lively music, dance, and local cuisine that capture the island’s rich cultural heritage. Maio’s arid interior is also an intriguing area to explore, with its unique flora and fauna and the impressive Monte d'Igreja offering panoramic views.
For the adventure-seeker, Maio’s landscape provides opportunities for hiking and exploring its diverse terrain. The island's quiet nature reserves and remote beaches are ideal for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots and immerse themselves in nature. Trekking through the island’s rugged hills and dunes offers a chance to witness rare bird species and endemic plant life.
Fun Fact: Maio is the least populated of Cape Verde's islands, making it a pristine retreat where you can enjoy the untouched beauty of the Atlantic Ocean without the bustle of heavy tourism.
Other Popular Destinations in Cape Verde
Sao Vicente
Sao Vicente, one of Cape Verde’s most vibrant islands, is full of beautiful coastal scenery. Laginha Beach, just a short walk from the island's main city, Mindelo, is perfect for relaxing by the turquoise waters, while Sao Pedro Beach is known for its strong winds, making it a popular spot for windsurfing. For those who enjoy hiking, Monte Verde provides panoramic views of the island’s landscapes.
Boa Vista
Boa Vista is an island in Cape Verde known for its broad sandy landscapes, volcanic terrain, and long Atlantic coastline. It is the easternmost of the Barlavento islands and has a relatively dry climate, with much of its interior covered by open plains, dunes, and rocky ground. Sal Rei, the island’s main town, sits beside a sheltered bay and serves as its principal commercial centre.