Nosy Boraha, also known as Île Sainte-Marie, is a long, narrow island off Madagascar’s northeastern coast. Its sheltered position in the Indian Ocean gives it a landscape of sandy beaches, coconut palms, lagoons, small bays, and inland forests. The island is separated from mainland Madagascar by a channel that creates relatively calm coastal waters in many areas
Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.
Sintra, located just 40 minutes from Lisbon, feels like a world apart. Tucked into the hills of the Serra de Sintra, this town has drawn kings, poets, and explorers for centuries. It was once the summer retreat of Portuguese royalty, who left behind palaces and gardens that seem pulled from a storybook. The most famous, Palácio da Pena, is perched high above the town with bold red and yellow towers that blend Romanticism with Moorish and Gothic styles.
Bergamo, in northern Italy’s Lombardy region, is a city of striking contrasts, divided into the historic upper town and the modern lower town. The upper town, perched on a hill and encircled by Venetian walls, offers cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and panoramic views over the surrounding plains and the distant Alps.
Imatra, Finland, is a hidden gem nestled near the Russian border, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. A key draw is the Imatrankoski Rapids, one of Finland's oldest tourist attractions dating back to the 18th century. These powerful rapids, located on the Vuoksi River, have captivated visitors for centuries, including Russian nobility like Catherine the Great.
Nestled along the south bank of the Danube, this historical Austrian city bursts with charm. A favorite stop on European river cruises, the city's most famous attraction is Melk Abbey, which dates back to the 11th century. The original Benedictine structure was lost to fires and foreign invasion, then rebuilt during the 18th century in lavish Baroque style, including a library and inner church covered in magnificent frescoes and gilded fixtures.
Other Popular Destinations in Austria
Vienna
Vienna has a long memory. Once the capital of the Habsburg Empire, the city still carries signs of its imperial past in its palaces, concert halls, and wide boulevards. Visitors can walk through the Hofburg complex, where emperors once ruled, or tour the opulent rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, which features 1,441 rooms and a maze in its gardens. But Vienna’s many historic buildings now house contemporary art museums, cafés, and institutions that reflect the city’s modern identity.
Dürnstein
West of Vienna, the quaint town of Dürnstein lies on the banks of the iconic Danube and is the perfect destination for river cruising, sightseeing, and enjoying the best of Austrian culture. Though small, this picturesque village offers plenty to see and do.