A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Parma, one of the largest cities in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, is renowned for its exquisite prosciutto and cheese. With a population of 192,000, the city has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and has maintained a significant role in the historical development of Italy.
Perugia has the honour of being both the capital of the Umbria region and of the Province of Umbria. Located in the centre of the country, Perugia is approximately equidistant from both Florence and Rome and sits in a hilltop region surrounded by valleys and mountains.
Many individuals may not be aware that the modest nation of Austria is, in fact, an exceptionally sought-after vacation destination in Europe. Consequently, visitors will find a plethora of activities to engage in, and the attractiveness of this country remains undiminished in both winter and summer.
If Montbéliard in Doubs appears distinct from a typical French town, it is because it was not officially French until the Revolution. Previously, it belonged to the Duchy of Württemberg, and this German influence is still evident today. As the population expanded in the early 1600s, Montbéliard underwent redevelopment by a Swabian master architect, resulting in many of the houses, churches, and engineering marvels that persist today.
Situated on two elevations in the Deux-Sèvres Department of western France, the town of Niort possesses a pragmatic reputation rooted in its financial services. Nevertheless, upon closer examination, Niort and the adjacent Marais Poitevin region can enchant visitors with their charm.
Just shy of the Belgian border in the Nord department, Valenciennes is a city recognized for its cultural and creative significance, earning it the nickname, “Athens of the North.” For centuries, this relatively small city has produced painters, sculptors, and architects who have greatly contributed to French culture.
Situated on the southern slopes of the Serra de Candeeiros range, Rio Maior is a locality renowned for a unique natural occurrence found nearby. The salt flats, remarkably distant from the ocean, have been utilized by residents since the 12th century.
Amarante is an idyllic town situated in the upland countryside of the North of Portugal. To the east rises the imposing Serra do Marão, while the Tâmega Valley is adorned with elevated hills enveloped in woodlands. The quintessential scene in Amarante is the Ponte de São Gonçalo spanning the Tâmega River adjacent to the Renaissance monastery of the same name.
Leeuwarden is a remarkable city situated in the northern region of the Netherlands within Friesland province. As the capital of the province, Leeuwarden boasts a population of approximately 108,000 and has a rich history of habitation dating back to the 10th century. The area has seen archaeological discoveries from the Roman era and has been referenced in historical documents for centuries.
Vaughan, one of the rapidly expanding cities in Canada, is located just north of Toronto. While it serves as a suburb of this major metropolis, Vaughan is a city with its own identity. The history of Vaughan traces back to 1792, but considerable growth since 1991 has significantly enhanced its prominence.
Primarily recognized as a ferry port, Cherbourg-Octeville boasts an array of attractions: the Cité de la Mer museum, for instance, transports visitors back to the golden era of transatlantic travel, residing within an expansive Art Deco ocean liner terminal.
On the right bank of the Douro, Valbom is a small town just upriver from Porto. You can effortlessly reach the city center, where you can engage in sightseeing, appreciate art and architecture, savor Port wine, and explore historic neighborhoods. Valbom, however, possesses its own charm, as skilled goldsmith artisans have been creating intricate filigree jewelry here for centuries.
Nestled among rolling hills adorned with a lightweight cover of cork oak trees, Montemor-o-Novo represents an unassuming town in the core of the Alentejo region. This locale is home to several significant attractions worthy of exploration. The Alentejo region is dotted with ancient monuments, with no fewer than 12 located within this municipality.
Paredes, located in the Porto District, is a town and municipality bordering the Sousa River Valley. This picturesque area of northern Portugal is distinguished by its vineyard-covered hills and farms that cultivate the delectable casca de carvalho melons. The Romanesque Route, which traverses this region, is adorned with historic monuments from the medieval period, including two remarkable churches and the remnants of a castle that played a role in the conflicts with the Moors during the 10th century.
Situated along the River Tagus, Póvoa de Santa Iria is a municipality surrounded by wetlands, approximately 20 minutes from the center of Lisbon by train. The previously industrious waterside area has been revitalized with a “linear park,” offering visitors a boardwalk that traverses the marshes and provides enchanting views of the estuary and its diverse avian population.
The coastal town of Câmarade Lobos is recognized as one of Madeira’s oldest settlements, dating back to the 15th century. It is home to a pair of churches from this era, along with a cove where caravels would have moored six centuries ago. While these vessels have been replaced by modest fishing boats, the town continues to thrive due to its maritime activities, despite the growing number of visitors.
Located along the coastline between Aveiro and Porto, Esmoriz is a burgeoning resort town that is gaining recognition. The primary beach offers consistent breaks, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. Numerous surf camps allow visitors to refine their skills throughout the day, followed by various evening activities.
Stylish and artistic, Montreuil is an eastern suburb of Paris, located just north of the Bois de Vincennes. Historically, this area was characterized by industry and agriculture, and many residences are found in refurbished warehouses and mills. It is a neighborhood where visitors can explore flea markets for vintage finds and experience the charm of the remaining old walled peach orchards.
Rimini is arguably one of the most recognized beach resorts throughout Europe, primarily known for its 15 km long expanse of exquisite white sand beaches, numerous hotels, and an abundance of bars and restaurants. A significant number of visitors are attracted here to bask in the sun, unwind on the beaches, and momentarily detach from the hectic pace of contemporary life.
A serene coastal community in the southeast of Madeira, Caniço boasts many of the island’s finest features. Here, one can encounter steep hills, pebble beaches, and sheer cliffs. At Garajau, a prominent statue of Christ overlooks the waters, a tribute established prior to Rio’s Christ the Redeemer. Furthermore, Caniço is situated within a marine reserve where groupers often approach divers closely.