Costa Maya is a rising star of the Yucatán peninsula that offers a quiet alternative to its 'big brothers' such as Chetumal or the Riviera Maya. However, despite its young age as a tourist resort, it boasts an abundance of historical and natural landmarks, and has a genuinely impressive beach bar scene, which makes it a worthy rival.

In 1831, Charles Darwin sailed to South America aboard the H.M.S. Beagle. On the return voyage across the Pacific, the vessel stopped on a small group of islands far off the Ecuadorian coast, changing the course of human scientific endeavour and self-understanding forever. Fascinated by the unique wildlife on the islands, Darwin collected biological specimens and studied them over the next 30 years. His findings led to the formulation of the scientific theory of evolution by natural selection. This small group of islands and their one-of-a-kind wildlife are to thank for one of humanity's most remarkable discoveries. And today, almost 200 years later, they remain a source of endless fascination and a favourite travel destination for scientists, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, scuba divers, and anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.

Located in the heart of sunny Calabria, the charming city of Lamezia Terme came into existence in 1968 through the amalgamation of three separate towns in the Province of Catanzaro. Perched between the dramatic Tyrrhenian cliffs and the gentle sand dunes of the Ionic coast, this cosy gem resides just south of the expansive Sila plateau offering a captivating glimpse into the diverse landscapes of the Mediterranean.

Prosperous and lively, Brescia is Lombardy’s second biggest city, a university town with a modern business area (Brescia Due). Located between two of Italy’s most famous lakes, Lake Garda and Lake Iseo, Brescia is often overlooked by visitors who bypass the city itself and head straight to the undeniably beautiful lakes. A great pity, as Brescia boasts one of the most beautiful historic centres in the region, and some of the best Roman and Lombard remains in northern Italy.