The British have long been associated with the Dordogne Valley. Fertile and green, this is where the 100 Year's War was fought. Many of the castles and "Bastides" were built by the British. The French say it is the land with "a little bit of everything", from a gentle river to lush pastures to wonderful wineries.
Comoros, independent state comprising a group of islands located at the northern entrance of the Mozambique Channel, between the African mainland and the island of Madagascar. Officially called the Federal Islamic Republic of the Comoros, the archipelago includes four major islands.
Roussillon is a hilltop village in the Luberon of southeastern France, surrounded by some of the region’s richest ochre deposits. Its houses, walls, and narrow streets are colored by the same natural pigments found in the surrounding earth, ranging from pale yellow to deep red. The village stands within the Luberon Regional Natural Park, where wooded hills and agricultural land meet the ochre landscape.
Stratford-upon-Avon, nestled in the heart of Warwickshire, England, is a timeless destination that exudes old-world charm and literary heritage. Best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, this enchanting market town invites visitors to walk in the footsteps of the world's greatest playwright. Explore the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
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.
Photo Credit: Photo by Robby McCullough on Unsplash
Kanazawa, Japan, is a captivating city that offers a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, Kanazawa is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese experiences. The Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, is a must-visit for any traveler. This beautiful landscape garden features serene ponds, lush greenery, and seasonal flowers, embodying classic Japanese aesthetics.
Another gem in Kanazawa is the Kanazawa Castle, which, though rebuilt, retains the grandeur of its original structure. The castle's impressive stone walls and historical exhibits provide a glimpse into the feudal past of the region. Explore the castle grounds and discover the rich history of the Maeda clan, the ruling samurai family of Kanazawa.
For those interested in traditional crafts, Kanazawa is renowned for its gold leaf production, which dates back to the 16th century. The city is home to several workshops where visitors can see artisans at work and even try their hand at creating their own gold leaf art. The Kanazawa Gold Leaf Museum offers a fascinating insight into this craft.
Fun Fact: Kanazawa is also known for its vibrant 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, which stands out for its innovative architecture and diverse exhibitions. The museum's round shape and transparent walls make it an architectural marvel in its own right.
Other Popular Destinations in Japan
Tokyo
Shopping, historic temples, lush green spaces and exceptional dining are all part of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. This spectacular, highly populated metropolis holds unlimited options for tourists.
Kyoto
Travel through enchanting Kyoto to discover a cultural and spiritual haven in Japan. Once the country’s imperial capital, Kyoto is now home to magnificent shrines, lush botanical gardens and nature parks, and exceptional culinary delights.