The narrow and often steep granite-paved streets of Cagliari’s Castello District are a reminder of a bygone age when the town was dominated at first by Pisans, and later by the Aragonese. Built from white limestone, the walls and towers of the Old Town shimmer in the sun and are a magnificent sight, especially if you are lucky and approach the city from the sea, as the English novelist D.H. Lawrence did in 1921 when he described the Old Town as looking like a "Jerusalem without trees".

The coast of dreams, ravaged by the Atlantic Ocean and lined by spectacular sandy beaches, where you will find towering cliffs sheltering small rock pools. The sea is teeming with life, and the crystal-clear water is perfectly alluring, whether you are dreaming of a relaxing swim or an adrenaline-pumped afternoon of extreme sports. If you shy away from the surf, you can admire the spectacular views from above as you stroll along the tops of the cliffs or wander back into town and into one of the many delightful gardens.

Dutch heritage is present in the town’s dairy farms, blueberry and strawberry fields, parks, museums, and its architecture. What makes Lynden such an attractive destination is also the alluring proximity to other points of interest, including Canada five miles north, county seat Bellingham 15 miles away, and half-an-hour’s drive from the Pacific Ocean. Skiers may be happy to know that the popular Mount Baker is only an hour away as well.

Otherworldly landscapes and a strong sense of tradition — it’s no wonder these islands have inspired so much folklore. Dotted with remnants of prehistoric, early Christian, Viking, and medieval settlements, these lands are steeped in tradition and are often Irish-speaking. Daring adventurers won't be bored as many of the islands offer unique diving or water sports experiences. A remote island escape is often accessible by bridge, tidal causeway, or a short ferry journey.

Blue lakes bordered by flowers, dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills, and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters – the nine islands of the Azores, situated in the middle of the Atlantic, just 4 hours from Boston and 2 hours from Lisbon by plane, are a paradise for nature-lovers. Choose a holiday on these beautiful islands and you’ll rediscover the peace of the countryside in a stunning and unspoilt natural environment.