Český Krumlov, a picturesque city in the Czech Republic, is a treasure trove of medieval charm and architectural splendor. Nestled in the South Bohemian Region, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning Český Krumlov Castle, which towers over the city and offers panoramic views of the winding Vltava River and the old town's red-tiled rooftops.
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, lies at the crossroads of Central Asia and has long been a hub of culture, trade, and political life. Its history stretches back over two millennia, shaped by Persian, Mongol, and Russian influences.
On Cook Strait sits Wellington, New Zealand's charming windy city. Must-sees here include the waterfront, the lovely beaches, and the Wellington Cable Car that takes riders to botanical gardens. For cultural exposure, visit The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, with its Maori national treasures and art gallery. Wellington Zoo is another key attraction, and features Tahi, a one-legged kiwi, as its mascot.
Mist, research stations, and penguins are just a few of the things that define the South Shetland Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Antarctica. These 11 Antarctic islands, most notably King George Island, have served as a base for researchers from Chile, Argentina, and a variety of other countries. The archipelago has also become a popular cruise destination for tourists to the Antarctic region.
Santa Monica, California, a gem on the Pacific coast, offers a quintessential Southern California experience. The city is renowned for its iconic Santa Monica Pier, which features an amusement park, aquarium, and family-friendly dining. A ride on the historic Ferris wheel provides stunning ocean views and a sense of nostalgia.
Elegant playground of the rich and famous, Gstaad also features the most glamorous snowfields in all of Europe. Mostly between Christmas and New Year, you will find international celebrities, aristocracy, movie stars and famous heads-of-state wherever you turn. Saanenland is a true paradise for fans of all kinds of winter sports.
Skiing starts here long before the other resorts get going, with ideal conditions on the nearby Diablerets glacier which offers year round skiing. By Christmas there is powder snow right down to the valley. With 250 kms of marked ski pistes for skiers of all standards, cross-country ski tracks and the excellent Swiss ski schools; 69 mountain railways and ski lifts, Gstaad is an ideal venue for all lovers of winter sun, sport and superb scenery.
But Gstaad is not just a winter resort; as each season unfolds, the lush mountains are a sporting paradise all year round. Gstaad in summer offers the fascination of unspoilt mountain scenery, the special atmosphere of the original, cosy chalet village and an attractive programme of events and activities.
Guests can sense the sincerity of Saanen hospitality regardless of whether they are in a palatial five-star hotel or a simple village restaurant. All the features of summer sport are in abundance - hiking, climbing, swimming, tennis, fishing or golfing at the beautiful alpine golf course at Saanenmöser. Gstaad also has lots to offer culturally.
World renowned soloists and chamber music ensembles rendezvous every year at the Yehudi Menuhin Festival. The Alpengala presents major symphonic works, operas and ballet.