San Gimignano, a stunning medieval hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, is often called the "Medieval Manhattan" due to its remarkable skyline of ancient towers. Encircled by 13th-century walls, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a mesmerizing journey back in time. As you stroll along the cobbled streets of the historic center, you'll be enchanted by the preserved Romanesque and Gothic architecture, from charming piazzas to grand churches.
Castro is the capital of Chiloé Province on the island of Chiloé in southern Chile, set along the eastern shore of the Gulf of Corcovado. The city is recognized for its distinctive waterfront, hillside neighborhoods, and traditional wooden architecture. Its most recognizable feature is the palafitos, houses built on wooden stilts above the tidal edge, particularly around the Gamboa and Río neighborhoods.
Bordeaux is ready for its close-up! After years of improvements, modern public transportation is in place and the city is gleaming after a wave of restorations. When visiting this lovely destination, be sure to walk across the Garonne River-spanning Stone Bridge (17 arches in all!) and see Place des Quinconces, France's grandest public square.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a large protected area spanning the border between South Africa and Botswana in the southern Kalahari. It combines red sand dunes, dry riverbeds, grass-covered plains, and scattered camel thorn trees across a semi-arid landscape. The park is managed cooperatively by the two countries, allowing wildlife to move across the international boundary without fences.
Vagharshapat, also known as Etchmiadzin, is a city in Armenia's Armavir Province, west of Yerevan and near the base of Mount Aragats. It is one of the country's most important religious and cultural centers and is often described as the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The city is surrounded by fertile agricultural land, with orchards, vineyards, and fields forming part of the landscape.
ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled). The city's attractions encompass the 15th-century St. Machar's Cathedral, the Mercat Cross of 1686 (a impressive structure), the 14th-century Brig o' Balgownie (Scotland's oldest bridge) and the Winter Garden (Europe's largest indoor garden). Old
Aberdeen, the students' quarter of the city, merits a visit; Stroll the campuses of the two ancient universities, King's College (founded 1495) and Marischal College (founded 1500) -- both are now combined as the University of Aberdeen. Aberdeen is excellent as a base for touring the nearby castles (Dunnotar, Slains and Crathes) and whiskey distilleries (Glenfiddich, Glenlivet and Speyside Cooperage). Other sites include Balmoral Castle (the Royal Family's summer residence) and Braemar Castle, which hosts the largest Highland games every
Other Popular Destinations in Scotland
Edinburgh
In Edinburgh, an ancient fortress looms, the hills are steep, and travelers delight in the hidden charms of the Old Town and New Town. Hike to find spectacular views on Arthur's Seat, shop the downhill streets of the Royal Mile, and visit Edinburgh Castle, an imposing royal fortress that defines this city's skyline.
Glasgow
Picturesque Glasgow will instantly charm you with its collection of stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and trendy restaurants and bars. Scotland’s vibrant and eclectic cultural center, Glasgow is an essential destination for travelers to the United Kingdom.