The Irish Republic's second largest city is a surprisingly appealing place - you'll find time passes effortlessly during the day, and by night the pub scene is lively. The town center is uniquely situated on an island between two channels of the Lee River.
Norfolk Island may be small but it carries a story that spans centuries. Located in the South Pacific between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia, the island is a fascinating blend of Polynesian roots, British convict history, and Pitcairn Island culture. Today, visitors can walk through one of the best-preserved penal settlements in the world at Kingston, where stone ruins and restored Georgian buildings stand against a backdrop of green hills and the open sea.
Georgia, nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a country defined by dramatic landscapes, rich traditions, and a deep sense of history. The snow-capped Caucasus Mountains rise in the north, offering scenic hiking trails and ancient villages, while the Black Sea coastline in the west provides a warmer, more relaxed atmosphere.
Oxford is best known for its world-famous university, but the city offers much more than historic college halls and ivory towers. Its skyline, shaped by spires and domes, hints at centuries of intellectual life. The University of Oxford dates back to at least the 12th century and includes iconic buildings like the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and the Radcliffe Camera, a circular reading room that looks more like a cathedral than a place for quiet study.
Monastir, a coastal gem in Tunisia, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and sun-soaked relaxation. Overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the city is famous for its majestic Ribat, a well-preserved Islamic fortress dating back to 796 AD. This imposing structure, used historically to defend against Byzantine and European invaders, offers visitors panoramic views of the coastline and the city below.
Situated in the French administrative region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Provence is a picturesque delight and one of France's most beloved provinces. Replete with sprawling lavender fields, lush vineyards, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture, Provence will surely capture your heart and mind.
Senanque Abbey is a must-see for any visitor to Provence. Located in the charming village of Gordes, this twelfth-century abbey is surrounded by stunning fields of lavender, with vivid hues of purple that nearly glow in the warm sunlight. The historic Palais des Papes, once the seat of the Avignon papacy, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose Gothic walls sit over the city of Avignon in opulent glory.
Venture south of the countryside to the French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, for a taste of luxury and some of France's finest cuisine. Head to Marseille for fresh seafood and delectable eats, from bouillabaise, to bourride, to tagine. Better yet, whisk yourself away to Cannes or Nice for fine dining and designer shopping.
Provence's natural beauty provides the perfect setting for those who love outdoor activities. The Parc National des Calanques offers challenging hikes surrounded by white limestone formations, well-suited for the adventurous traveler. For a calmer experience, kayak down the Gorges du Verdon and marvel at its steep limestone cliffs and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Verdon River.
From the cosmopolitan coasts of the French Riviera, to the peaceful countryside of Gordes and Uzès, to the winter-white slopes of the Alps, there's something for everyone in Provence.