If summer means the beach to the inhabitants of Greater Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata is most often the beach they are thinking of. Situated on the northern Atlantic coast, 400km from the capital, beaches in this area sprawl for eight km, with sophisticated mansions (reflecting the area's upper-class origins) mingling with the new middle-class resorts. Sea lions keep an eye on the fishing activities around the wharves, and a replica of the grotto of Lourdes is a kitsch paradise.
Located on the southern coast of Norway, Kristiansand is a charming port city and a favorite summer destination for locals and tourists alike. Highlights of this coastal gem include the Christiansholm Fortress, the Kristiansand Zoo, the Kristiansand Cathedral, Gimle Gård, and the Fiskebrygga wharf.
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, is one of the country’s oldest protected areas and holds deep historical importance in conservation.
Set along the shoreline of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos, the Charles Darwin Research Station introduces visitors to a living laboratory shaped by volcanic land and rare wildlife. Located near Puerto Ayora, the station stands as the scientific heart of the islands, where researchers from around the world work side by side to understand and protect species found nowhere else on Earth.
Glacier National Park is a stunning natural wonderland renowned for its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. This vast expanse of pristine wilderness covers over a million acres and is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The park is famous for its iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive that winds through the heart of the park and offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, lush valleys, and pristine lakes.
Sekondi-Takoradi, often referred to as the Western Region's commercial hub, is a dynamic urban area brimming with both historical charm and modern vibrancy. The twin cities, Sekondi and Takoradi, offer a unique blend of traditional culture and contemporary development. As Ghana's second-largest port city, Takoradi is a gateway to the region’s rich maritime heritage and booming oil industry, while Sekondi adds a historical touch with its colonial architecture and cultural significance.
The Takoradi Harbor is a major attraction, where visitors can witness the bustling activities of one of West Africa’s most significant ports. Nearby, the vibrant Market Circle in Takoradi offers a sensory feast with its array of local goods, spices, and crafts, providing an authentic Ghanaian market experience. The beach resorts along the coastline offer pristine sands and a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the city's lively streets.
Sekondi-Takoradi is also home to the Fort Orange, a historic fort built by the Dutch in the 17th century. This fort, now a museum, gives visitors insight into the colonial past of the region and its significance in the trans-Atlantic trade.
For the best experience, plan your visit between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and the city buzzes with various festivals and events.