Hellesylt, a small village on Norway’s western coast, sits at the entrance to the famous Geirangerfjord and offers scenery that feels almost otherworldly. Steep mountains rise sharply on all sides, their slopes cut by ribbons of waterfalls that plunge into deep blue water. One of the most striking sights is the Hellesylt Waterfall, which thunders past the heart of the village and can be admired from several pedestrian bridges.
Morondava is a coastal town in western Madagascar and the capital of the Menabe region. Located along the Mozambique Channel, it serves as a base for exploring the dry landscapes and wildlife of western Madagascar. The town is closely associated with the Avenue of the Baobabs, one of the country’s best-known natural landmarks, and with the dry forests around Kirindy. Morondava’s setting is shaped by sandy coastal areas, river systems, dry woodland, and open plains.
Nantes, situated on the banks of the Loire River in western France, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, creative energy, and dynamic cultural scene.
Montecatini Terme, in Tuscany’s Valdinievole region, is one of Italy’s most renowned spa towns, celebrated for its thermal waters and elegant Belle Époque charm.
Tree-lined avenues, grand architecture, and the imperative to live well defines Bucharest, a bustling city that is rebounding and expanding. In the 1900s, this vibrant Romanian capital was nicknamed "Little Paris" and that jubilant, raise-a-glass spirit carries over to this day.
Travelers are advised to linger in historically-rich Bucharest, even if their future itinerary stop of Transylvania is beckoning. Those that do will be rewarded with 21st-century modernity and belle époque antiquity. Attractions include the gargantuan Palace of Parliament, the grand concert hall Romanian Athenaeum, King Mihai I Park, and the Arch of Triumph war memorial.
Other Popular Destinations in Romania
Braşov
Nestled in the heart of Romania, Brașov is a charming city that effortlessly blends medieval history with stunning natural beauty. Encircled by the Carpathian Mountains, Brașov's well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit destination.
Sighisoara
Sighisoara rises above the Târnava Mare River as one of the few medieval citadels in Europe that is still lived in and admired today. Its historic center has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999, recognized for its long history as a fortified Saxon settlement and its role in trade and defense on the edges of central Europe. Wander through cobbled alleys framed by pastel-colored houses, and the layers of time feel close at hand, from the city walls and guild towers to busy cafés.