Rivieras, Minarets & More

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a slice of Italian paradise nestled along the rugged Ligurian coast. This collection of five fishing villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—offers visitors a breathtaking landscape of pastel-colored homes perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. The region’s centuries-old terraced vineyards, winding hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters make it an enchanting destination for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of natural beauty. Wander through narrow streets, dine on fresh seafood, and sip local white wine as you immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal gem.

One of the most popular ways to explore Cinque Terre is by foot along the Sentiero Azzurro, also known as the Blue Trail. This path connects all five villages, offering hikers stunning views of the coastline and the Ligurian Sea. For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic train ride between the villages, hopping off at each stop to discover quaint harbors, lively piazzas, and local markets. Don’t miss Vernazza, often considered the jewel of Cinque Terre, with its charming harbor and ancient watchtower.

Cinque Terre is also known for its culinary delights, especially its fresh seafood and pesto, which originates from the nearby city of Genoa. Visitors can indulge in dishes like trofie al pesto, made from local basil and pine nuts, or savor fritto misto, a medley of fried seafood caught fresh from the sea. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of Sciacchetrà, a rare and sweet wine produced in the steep terraced vineyards that line the cliffs.

Fun fact: The Cinque Terre National Park is Italy's smallest yet one of its most ecologically rich areas. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the laid-back coastal atmosphere, Cinque Terre’s stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage will leave you enchanted.

Saint-Tropez, located on the glamorous French Riviera, epitomizes luxury and allure. Once a quaint fishing village, this iconic destination has evolved into a playground for celebrities and discerning travelers. Visitors are greeted by the picturesque Old Port, lined with elegant yachts and vibrant cafés where you can savor the Mediterranean ambiance. The colorful façades and narrow streets of the old town, particularly around Place des Lices, offer a charming backdrop for leisurely strolls and lively markets.

The town is also famed for its stunning beaches, such as Pampelonne Beach, a five-kilometer stretch of golden sand embraced by crystal-clear waters. Whether lounging under a parasol at the exclusive Club 55 or enjoying a casual beachside meal, the seaside experiences in Saint-Tropez are nothing short of luxurious. The nearby Parc de la Moutte offers a tranquil retreat with its lush gardens and panoramic views over the Bay of Saint-Tropez.

Art and culture flourish in Saint-Tropez, with the Annonciade Museum showcasing works by post-Impressionist artists who were inspired by the town's light and landscape. The Citadel of Saint-Tropez, perched on a hill, provides historical insight and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The annual Saint-Tropez Polo Club matches and the vibrant nightlife, including famed venues like Les Caves du Roy, further enhance the town’s reputation as a hotspot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Fun fact: Saint-Tropez is not only known for its beaches but also for its legendary "Tropezienne" tart, a sweet brioche filled with a light cream, which has become a local delicacy. This treat was popularized by the famous French actress Brigitte Bardot in the 1950s, adding a touch of star-studded history to the town’s culinary scene.

Islamic and French influences blend together in charming Casablanca, Morocco’s iconic coastal city. Frequently used as a port for Spanish and Mediterranean cruises, Casablanca lies halfway between Marrakesh and Fes and is the perfect entryway for exploring the rest of Morocco. Casablanca’s most notable sites include the Hassan II Mosque, which towers over the glittering coastline and is one of Africa’s largest mosques, as well as the Ancienne Medina neighborhood, an old French-style quarter with plenty of delightful local markets and cafés. Stroll along the Corniche promenade, which follows Casablanca’s long stretch of beach, for spectacular views of the ocean at sunset, or visit the Mohammed V Square, lined with enormous palm trees, for easy access to the city center and a number of restaurants. Start your next African adventure in eclectic Casablanca!

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.

Agadir's rich history is complemented by its modern appeal. Following a devastating earthquake in 1960, the city was rebuilt with a blend of contemporary Moroccan and international architecture. One of the city's key landmarks is the Agadir Kasbah, a fortress built in 1541. Though it was severely damaged in the earthquake, the Kasbah still offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

For a taste of Moroccan culture, Agadir's souks and markets are bustling with activity. The Agadir Souk El Had, the city’s largest market, provides a colorful array of local crafts, spices, and textiles. Visitors can explore traditional Moroccan cuisine, from fresh seafood to delectable pastries.

Fun fact: Agadir is home to the annual Agadir International Music Festival, which celebrates a diverse range of music genres and attracts artists from around the globe. This festival, usually held in late summer, adds a vibrant cultural dimension to the city’s lively atmosphere. For the best experience, consider visiting Agadir from March to May or September to November, when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are lower.

Nestled on the sun-drenched southern coast of Madeira, Funchal, the island's capital, offers an enchanting mix of old-world charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque city, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean, is known for its lush botanical gardens, stunning vistas, and year-round mild climate. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic Old Town, Zona Velha, where colorful murals adorn the doors of traditional Madeiran houses, or visit the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores, a lively market where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts. The aromas of exotic fruits, spices, and fresh seafood will transport you into the heart of Madeira's unique culinary heritage.

For a breathtaking view of Funchal, take the cable car from the Old Town up to the hilltop village of Monte. Here, you can explore the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a verdant paradise filled with exotic plants, Koi ponds, and Asian-inspired sculptures. Don't miss the exhilarating toboggan ride down the winding streets of Monte – a traditional Madeiran experience where you’ll be whisked downhill in a wicker basket sled, guided by skilled carreiros. For those interested in history, the 15th-century Sé Cathedral, with its intricate wooden ceiling and striking Manueline-style architecture, offers a glimpse into Funchal's colonial past.

Funchal is also renowned for its wine and its namesake Madeira wine, a fortified wine that has been produced on the island for centuries. Wine lovers can visit the Blandy’s Wine Lodge, the oldest winery in Madeira, to learn about the island's rich viticultural history and enjoy tastings of different styles of Madeira wine, from dry to sweet. Afterward, wander along the Avenida do Mar, a scenic promenade that runs along Funchal’s waterfront, where you can relax at one of the many cafes while watching yachts and cruise ships glide by.

Fun fact: Funchal is known for its spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display, which was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2006 as the largest fireworks display in the world. Every year, the skies over Funchal Bay light up in a mesmerizing explosion of colors, attracting thousands of visitors to Madeira to celebrate the New Year in unforgettable style.