Arendal is a coastal city in Agder, southern Norway, set around a sheltered harbor and a chain of islands and skerries along the Skagerrak. The city center combines maritime activity with historic wooden buildings, waterfront streets, and the inner harbor of Pollen. Arendal’s location has long influenced its economy and character, with shipping, forestry, and mining playing important roles in its development.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, with its adobe-style architecture, vibrant arts scene, and unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo influences, is a destination like no other. Known as "The City Different," Santa Fe stands apart with its rich history and cultural diversity. A fun fact about Santa Fe is that it is the highest state capital in the United States, sitting at an elevation of 7,199 feet.
Camden is a coastal town in Maine on the western shore of Penobscot Bay, where forested hills meet a deep harbor and rocky shoreline. Its compact downtown sits between the harbor and the lower slopes of Mount Battie, giving the town a distinctive setting within the Midcoast region.
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Valea Cetății
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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. The centerpiece of the city is the stunning Black Church, a Gothic marvel that dates back to the 14th century. This iconic landmark, known for its massive blackened walls, is the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe and houses an impressive collection of 4,000 volumes of the Protestant Reformation.
The city's Old Town, with its cobbled streets and colorful buildings, exudes a fairytale charm. Stroll through Piața Sfatului, the main square, where you can admire the historical Council House and the vibrant street life. Brașov’s medieval fortifications, including the impressive city walls and the Tampa Fortress, offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. For a taste of local history and culture, the Brașov History Museum, housed in the former Council House, provides a fascinating insight into the city's past.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Brașov’s surrounding landscapes. The nearby Piatra Craiului National Park offers exceptional hiking trails, while the scenic Poiana Brașov resort is perfect for skiing and mountain activities year-round. The nearby Dracula’s Castle, or Bran Castle, is a short drive away and is a popular attraction steeped in legend and myth.
Fun Fact: Brașov is home to one of the narrowest streets in Europe, Strada Sforii. Measuring just 1.2 meters wide, it’s a delightful curiosity and a perfect spot for a memorable photo.
Other Popular Destinations in Romania
Bucharest
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.
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.