Austria is located just east of Switzerland; northeast of Italy. The foremost attraction is skiing or hiking the Alps--equally breathtaking whether you're among its glorious peaks or at ground level. Visit the capital of Vienna, with its original coffee houses and the opera; or take a country drive and visit its charming villages.
Paynes Bay is a coastal area on the west coast of Barbados in the parish of Saint James, between Holetown and Sandy Lane. Its public beach curves along calm Caribbean waters, with pale sand, shallow reef areas, and views across the sea. The bay is part of Barbados’ west coast, where sheltered conditions generally make the water suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
The River Nile, most often associated with Egypt and its ancient civilizations, actually flows through eight other countries including Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Kenya. It is formed by two major tributaries, the White Nile and Blue Nile, and is considered by many to be the longest river in the world when measured from its source waters in Rwanda and Burundi.
Lundy is a small granite island in the Bristol Channel, about 12 miles off the coast of North Devon. Roughly three miles long and half a mile wide, it has a rugged western coastline of cliffs and a more sheltered eastern side with grassy slopes and Landing Bay. The island is owned by the National Trust and managed by the Landmark Trust, with a small resident community and no cars.
Blue Bay is a coastal village in southeastern Mauritius, within the district of Grand Port and close to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. It is best known for Blue Bay Marine Park, a protected lagoon where coral reefs and clear shallow waters support a rich variety of marine life. The village sits beside a curved sandy beach and sheltered bay, with views across the lagoon toward small offshore islets.
Photo Credit: Photo by Maarten Zuidhoorn on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by robin mikalsen on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by robin mikalsen on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Sébastien Goldberg on Unsplash
Nestled along the Trondheim Fjord in central Norway, Trondheim offers a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant modern life. As Norway’s first capital, Trondheim boasts a legacy that includes the striking Nidaros Cathedral, an iconic landmark whose construction began in the 11th century. This majestic cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, serves as a pilgrimage site and offers breathtaking Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows.
The city's Old Town, known as Bakklandet, enchants with its charming wooden houses and picturesque canals. Stroll across the historic wooden bridges and explore the cobblestone streets that are home to quirky boutiques, cozy cafes, and local art galleries. The area is perfect for leisurely exploration and offers a glimpse into Trondheim’s past while embracing its contemporary culture.
For nature enthusiasts, Trondheim is a gateway to stunning landscapes. Just a short drive from the city, you can hike up to the top of Rønninge Mountain for panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding countryside. In winter, the area transforms into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, providing year-round outdoor activities.
Fun fact: Trondheim is home to the world’s northernmost university, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), which adds a youthful and innovative vibe to the city’s atmosphere. The university’s presence contributes to Trondheim’s reputation as a hub for technological advancements and research
Other Popular Destinations in Norway
Bergen
Charming Bergen will sweep you away with its picturesque architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled between stunningly verdant mountains and the winding fjords of the North Sea, this scenic town will delight you at every turn.
Oslo
Oslo, Norway’s capital, stands at the crossroads of Nordic history and forward-thinking design. Originally founded over a thousand years ago by Viking King Harald Hardrada, the city has evolved from a medieval trading hub into one of Europe’s most modern capitals. Visitors can explore its layered past at the Akershus Fortress, a 13th-century stronghold still standing guard over Oslofjord, or walk through the preserved wooden homes of Damstredet.