Zihuatanejo, a charming coastal town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, invites travelers with its blend of serene beaches and vibrant local culture. Nestled on the Bay of Zihuatanejo, the town offers a picturesque escape with its stunning shoreline, where the gentle waves lap against golden sands. The tranquil atmosphere of Playa La Ropa, one of the town’s most renowned beaches, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and savoring fresh seafood from beachfront restaurants.

Salamanca, often called the “Golden City” for the warm glow of its sandstone buildings, is a place where centuries of stories are etched into every wall. Visit its historic center to wander through cobbled streets lined with architectural marvels. The University of Salamanca, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in Europe and still buzzes with student life.

The bay’s environment supports a variety of Antarctic wildlife. Gentoo penguins breed around the shoreline, while skuas and other seabirds can be seen near the colony. Weddell seals and Antarctic fur seals may also occur in the area, particularly around beaches and sea ice. Mount Flora and the surrounding slopes provide a striking backdrop, with exposed rock contrasting against snowfields and glaciers.

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.

More than 5.5 million people visit Durham each year to enjoy a wealth of things to see and do including historical landmarks and sites, art centers and museums, nationally-recognized festivals and sports events.