Before there was Ciudad Real, there was ancient Alarcos. 8 km from the city, this Bronze Age excavation site also contains Iberian and medieval remains (a castle and Gothic chapel). The site was a fortified city in the 6th century, and after conquest in 1212, the citizens relocated down river to modern-day Ciudad Real.

Further inland, in the southern part of the island, lie the so-called masticochoria (mastic villages). These well-preserved, fortified villages date from the 14th-16th centuries and were centres for the cultivation of mastic. Mastic is the sweet-tasting gum of the lentisk bush, which was exported all over the Mediterranean – and the area still produces around 300 tonnes of mastic every year. The most picturesque villages are Pyrgi, with its houses decorated in black and white geometric patterns called xysta Mesta, where towers and walls surround a baffling labyrinth of village streets as well as Olympoi and Vessa are all a worth a visit.

Funny for children and relaxing for adults, this unassuming but heartwarming ranch is great for spending a couple of hours and having some rest while in the Arikok National Park area. Bring some veggie snacks to get extra love from these cute creatures.

Downtown Houston has been stepping up its game, and it’s a great place to explore on foot. Hop off the METRORail and you’re in the middle of it all—Broadway shows at the Hobby Center, Astros or Rockets games, live music, and some seriously good food. Discovery Green is always buzzing with events, while Market Square Park has a more laid-back vibe with historic charm and cozy bars. And if the Texas heat gets to you, take a detour through the downtown tunnel system—a hidden maze of air-conditioned walkways with cafés, shops, and a steady stream of office workers on their lunch breaks.