Nestled on the southern coast of Crete, Loutro is a hidden gem that offers a serene and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Accessible only by boat or foot, this charming village is renowned for its pristine waters and unspoiled natural beauty. The whitewashed buildings, which reflect the sun's rays, create a striking contrast against the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea.
Syracuse, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is a city where history and the sea converge in unforgettable ways. Founded by ancient Greeks in the 8th century BC, it became one of the most powerful city-states of its time. Today, visitors can explore the impressive archaeological park of Neapolis, which features a vast Greek theatre, Roman amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave known for its remarkable acoustics.
The whole south of Morocco is summarized in the historical, traditional and exotic sounding word "Ouarzazate". In Ouarzazate everything is calm, beautiful and fresh - the very image of the authentic south of Morocco, where time has stood still for centuries. The town has been located in three different places during its existence, two of them still inhabited today.
La Rioja, located in northern Spain, is best known for its wine, but the region offers much more than vineyard views. Its capital, Logroño, sits along the Camino de Santiago and has welcomed travelers for centuries. The city’s historic center is compact and lively, with narrow streets lined by centuries-old churches, pintxo bars, and quiet plazas.
Aitutaki is the second most visited of the magical Cook Islands and is recommended as a "must see" extension of any Rarotonga holiday. This is a place of great natural beauty and tranquility, where crystal clear waters and swaying palms provide a simple tonic to sooth away the pressures of the outside world.
Whether exploring volcanic trails or relaxing in seaside hot springs, Hachijo Jima provides an unforgettable island experience that feels worlds away from Japan’s major cities.
Photo Credit: Image by Erick Salas Agudelo from Pixabay
Photo Credit: Photo by Levi Ari Pronk on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Zane Bolen on Unsplash
Barranquilla sits near the mouth of the Magdalena River on Columbia's Caribbean side. It is a major seaport and a center of commerce, but everyone breaks loose for four days in February for one of the liveliest carnivals outside of Rio. It is centered between Cartagena and Santa Marta, and a good highway connects the three cities.
Other Popular Destinations in Colombia
Cartagena
A true gem on the Caribbean coast, the port city of Cartagena (Cartagena de Indias) welcomes visitors with its charming old town, colonial buildings, and exceptional beaches. A popular cruise ship stop, many seafarers find themselves honorary Cartagenans, as they stroll shady, cobblestone lanes and gaze upon impressive churches.
Santa Marta
Santa Marta, located on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, is one of the country’s oldest cities, founded in 1525. It has long served as a gateway between the coast and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range.