Halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth in the heart of the famous Garden Route, nestles the seaside town of Mossel Bay. A bustling holiday resort in summer and the ideal retreat in winter, it is situated on a spectacular sunwashed peninsula embraced by the warm Indian Ocean. Also called the "Karoo-by-the-Sea town", Mossel Bay features in the Guiness Book of Records as having the mildest all-year climate in the world, second only to Hawaii.
Hartford, Connecticut, is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a unique blend of New England charm and urban energy. Known as the “Insurance Capital of the World,” Hartford has deep roots in finance, but its appeal extends far beyond business. The city is home to stunning historic architecture, vibrant museums, and a lively arts scene. A visit to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, the oldest public art museum in the U.S., is a must.
Šiauliai, often referred to as the "City of the Sun" due to its high number of sunny days, is a vibrant gem in northern Lithuania. The city's most iconic landmark is the Hill of Crosses, a profound site of pilgrimage adorned with thousands of crosses placed by visitors over the decades. This unique and moving monument, which has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance, symbolizes the resilience and spirit of the Lithuanian people.
Warnemunde (or Warnemünde) is a port city in Germany and a frequent stop on many Northern European cruises. Across the Baltic Sea from Denmark's capital, Copenhagen, this charming seaside city has a number of delightful attractions, including the Warnemünde Lighthouse, a variety of local shops along the marina, and surfing lessons on the beach.
Karlovy Vary, nestled in the west of the Czech Republic, is renowned for its therapeutic thermal springs and charming architecture. The town's spa heritage dates back to the 14th century when Charles IV, the Holy Roman Emperor, discovered the healing powers of its mineral waters. Today, Karlovy Vary continues to attract visitors seeking relaxation and wellness at its historic spa resorts, such as the luxurious Grandhotel Pupp, a hallmark of classic elegance source.
The city of Oporto is situated on the right bank of the River Douro, being the second largest city of the country. Oporto is the regional capital of the northern area.
Rich from centuries of trade, modern Oporto is as much a cosmopolitan center as it is a city steeped in the historical events of the past. The city is best known for its striking bridges and the much celebrated Port wine.
Oporto boasts several important attractions, including the 12th century Sé Cathedral and the magnificent São Francisco Church with its striking gold encrusted interior. Crossing the bridge brings you to the true home of Port wine. Here, visitors can tour the world famous lodges, and taste local wines.
The fishing towns to the north of Oporto boast some of the best fish and seafood restaurants in Portugal. Travelling south, within easy reach of the city, visitors are promised a relaxing beach side resort setting with hotels, clubs and casinos.