Oviedo, the capital of Asturias in northern Spain, offers a rare mix of medieval heritage and everyday life that feels rooted rather than staged. The city’s historic center is home to some of the oldest pre-Romanesque buildings in Europe, including the UNESCO-listed Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo. Cider, not wine, defines the local table. Oviedo is surrounded by apple orchards, and the traditional drink, sidra natural, is poured from a height by skilled escanciadores.
Stellenbosch, a charming town in South Africa’s Western Cape, is a haven for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Established in 1679, Stellenbosch boasts well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. Its tree-lined streets are dotted with historical buildings, boutique shops, and artisanal cafes. A visit to the Stellenbosch Village Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage, showcasing restored buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Agadir, a vibrant coastal city in southwestern Morocco, is renowned for its beautiful beaches and modern amenities. Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Agadir is famous for its long, sandy coastline which stretches for over 10 kilometers (6 miles). The city's beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in water sports such as surfing and jet skiing. Agadir's temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers, makes it a year-round destination for beachgoers.
In ancient times, Kaanapali was a royal retreat for the rulers of Maui, who delighted in the perfect three-mile stretch of white sand beach, the gentle waves, warm sunny days and the majestic West Maui Mountains. Maui royalty surfed, raced their outrigger canoes, feasted at luaus that lasted for weeks, and where the Kaanapali Golf Course now blankets the land, they played ulu maika, a form of lawn bowling with heavy lava balls.
On the east coast of North Island, Napier is considered the "Art Deco capital" of New Zealand and the gateway to the Hawke's Bay wine region, whose popular varietals include pinot gris and syrah.