Eluding Ottoman oppression sure makes you beautiful! Besides breathtaking beaches and lovely pools, this Greek island in the Ionian Sea offers many charms, from its Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to Venetian fortresses to cypresses waving in the ocean breeze.

Nestled in the heart of Istria, the charming town of Grožnjan offers an enchanting escape into a world where history and art seamlessly blend. Often referred to as the "City of Artists," Grožnjan is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and picturesque medieval architecture. As you wander through its narrow, cobbled streets, you'll encounter well-preserved stone houses, quaint squares, and an array of art galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.

Marmaris sits on the turquoise waters of Turkey’s Aegean coast and greets visitors with a lively harbor, wide beaches and a story that spans thousands of years. Its protected bay has been a safe anchorage for ships since ancient times, and today the marina, one of the largest on the Turkish Riviera, is bright with yachts and fishing boats alike.

Volubilis is an extensive archaeological site in northern Morocco, located near the pilgrimage town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun and surrounded by fertile farmland at the foot of Jbel Zerhoun. The ruins represent one of the country’s most important ancient urban sites, with temples, public buildings, residences, defensive walls, and elaborate mosaic floors spread across a broad hillside. Its location overlooking the surrounding agricultural plain helps explain the settlement’s importance.

The white limestone bottom of this freshwater lagoon makes the vibrant aquamarine waters look even brighter. This blissful escape is perfect for kayaking or lounging and has smaller crowds than some of the more well-known tourist towns.