A well preserved, colonnaded medieaval old town with its world renowned Golden Roof. Right next to this there's a brightly coloured, sparkling imperial palace, the Hofburg - baroque and monumental. A stone’s throw away is the Hofkirche, a court church containing larger-than-life bronze statues, the Schwarze Mander, standing guard around the (empty) tomb of Emperor Maximilian I., a truly breath-taking sight and unique in Europe. High above this superb architecture towers the Nordkette, a magnificent mountain range between 2300 and 2500 m.

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.

The coastal gem in Southern Italy offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean landscapes. Explore the historic Old Town and wander through the winding streets, where laundry flaps in the breeze and locals chat over espresso in lively cafés, savour the local cuisine known for its fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and delicious street food, and soak up the Adriatic's beauty along its picturesque coastline.

Ringed by mountains and crowned by a spectacular fortress, Spain’s sunniest city mixes shopping centres and tapas bars with a mediaeval old town of narrow streets and tranquil squares. Along the coast you can find fishing villages, popular resorts, secluded beaches and the wild landscape of the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park.

The Greeks and Romans did it, as did rich lords, film stars, artists, and thousands of tourists. They were just going to pass by but instead remained in Nice and along the Riviera. Some for just a few weeks, others for months and years. They were too captivated by the light, enchanted by the scents, and charmed by the taste of olives and wine. Additionally, a Nice Nouveau has evolved – a sassy Mediterranean metropolis with pulsating nightlife, modern hotels, and daring art galleries. All this with a chance to dabble their toes in a turquoise sea.