Lao Cai, a gateway city to the northern highlands of Vietnam, offers an alluring blend of cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of French colonial heritage. Situated along the Red River and bordering China, Lao Cai is the starting point for adventurers heading to the famous terraced rice fields of Sapa, but it has its own unique charms to discover.
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.
Honningsvag is a town on the north coast of Norway and the gateway to Nordkapp, or North Cape, which marks the northernmost point in Europe. This remote Norwegian destination is a popular stop for cruises to Northern Europe and the Arctic.
Glenfinnan, nestled in the Scottish Highlands, is a picturesque village renowned for its dramatic landscapes and historical significance. This small but enchanting destination is best known for the Glenfinnan Viaduct, an architectural marvel completed in 1901.
Located in the western part of the Yukon Territory Province of Canada, this area is on the Yukon River and famous as the gold mining area of the great Gold Rush. It is still an active mining area and also a popular tourist attraction as it has retained much of the look from the gold rush era.
British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring. Additional must-do's here include tours of Craigdarroch Castle and Fisherman's Wharf Park, a floating pier where tourists can eat and watch seals. Another excellent option is the Royal BC Museum, a natural and human history complex holding 7 million objects.