Wales is a country where centuries-old castles rise above green valleys and coastlines are marked by rugged cliffs and quiet coves. Its capital, Cardiff, combines modern architecture with historical landmarks like Cardiff Castle, which has Roman origins and a Victorian Gothic interior. Just outside the city, St Fagans National Museum of History offers a walk-through experience of Welsh life over the past 500 years, with original buildings relocated from across the country.
Travelers on the Arabian Sea often find themselves in Muscat, on the Gulf of Oman. This port capital is situated between ocean and mountains, and boasts lovely beaches, great diving sites (watch for turtles!), 16th-century forts, and the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which can hold 20,000 people.
Kingstown, the vibrant capital of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is a captivating blend of Caribbean charm and historical intrigue. Located on the southwestern coast of the island of St. Vincent, this bustling port city offers a gateway to explore both its colonial past and vibrant present. Start your exploration at the Fort Charlotte which overlooks Kingstown Harbor.
Lagos sits on the southern edge of Portugal’s Algarve where a lively old port town meets wide Atlantic skies. Just a short stroll from the heart of town, the coast drops away into a spectacle at Ponta da Piedade, where golden sandstone cliffs rise out of the Atlantic and have been shaped into stacks, natural arches and grottoes over millennia. At the top, the Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse watches over this dramatic shoreline and offers a great backdrop for photos as the sun sets into the ocean.
Southeast Spain's seaport of Cartagena is a large naval base on the Mediterranean coast. The city was founded in 220 B.C. and boasts Roman ruins, mosaics and murals.
Hvar is a resort town and island off the coast of Croatia. A tourist destination with spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is popular for its beaches and is a favorite port for yacht cruises.