You’ll feel like you’ve crossed the border, but you’re not quite there yet. Of course, you’re aware that Maastricht’s central location in the Euregio means you can be in Belgium very quickly. But you don’t really feel it until you see how the city, and the countryside around it, is layered with a unique mix of foreign influences. With the Sint Pietersberg hill, the historic caves, the vineyards, Fort Sint Pieter, and Château Neercanne as backdrop, this part of the city has everything you need to capture that holiday feeling. Sint Pieter was its own municipality until 1920. This part of the city was always outside the city walls (and so had it the toughest in times of war). Then, it was mainly farmers who lived here; now, it’s mostly families, epicureans, and a few descendants of the inhabitants of that old Sint Pieter. Today, Sint Pieter is Maastricht’s most popular residential district, not just for its beautiful houses but because of its ideal location between city and green. And it still feels like its own town, with its own social life, and charm, even though it’s just a stone’s throw away from the city park. In fact, it has the best of both worlds: village and city. Nature and culture.

The Center for Contemporary Art & Library in Burgas is a modern cultural hub combining art exhibitions, workshops, and a well-equipped library. It features spaces for fine, applied, and decorative arts, fashion, and design, alongside dedicated areas for children’s creativity and young talents. The library, one of the largest in southeastern Bulgaria, offers a wide range of resources and hosts events like biennales, exhibitions, and lectures, making it a dynamic space for learning and cultural engagement. It’s a perfect spot to cool down from the summer heat and take a break from the beach.

The Swan River makes its way through many of the city’s neighbourhoods before it reaches the Indian Ocean. The river takes you through the Swan Valley wine region, Perth’s Central Business District and affluent suburbs, and the port city of Fremantle. Enjoy the view and the breeze, have a meal, and stop once or twice for a wine tasting. Pick a cruise that is just right for you. Captain Cook Cruises is one of the most popular cruise operators. They sell a variety of tour packages, including ones that take you past the mansions in Millionaire’s Row or into the peaceful Swan Valley.

The lush Osage Park offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, centered around a 12-acre wetland ecosystem. Visitors can explore floating boardwalks, enjoy the Quiver Archery Range, or play pickleball on well-maintained courts. The park features paved trails, art installations, and a spacious dog park, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Food trucks and scenic views, including stunning sunsets, add to the experience. Its mix of preserved nature and functional spaces creates a welcoming environment for all ages.