History-lovers and the curious should certainly include San Giovanni al Sepolcro Temple into their Brindisi itinerary. The ancient structure holds frescoes that date back to as early as the 12th century, with explanation boards set up in both Italian and English. Roman structures' remains can be seen in the basement.

Embark on a spellbinding journey through Chiang Rai's artistic wonders, where architectural marvels abound in vibrant hues. Begin your exploration at the ethereal White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a contemporary masterpiece that gleams like a vision from another realm, its intricate details and symbolic motifs inviting contemplation and awe. Next, delve into the mystical aura of the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), where shades of cerulean dance across ornate surfaces, evoking a sense of serenity and wonder. Finish your day at the enigmatic (and a tad bizarre) Black House (Baan Dam Museum), a surreal assemblage of darkened structures and curious artefacts, where shadows and light intertwine to provoke introspection and intrigue.

Tucked amongst the mountains, the high altitude resort of Sestriere is a safe bet for guaranteed snow cover. Purpose built in the 1930’s, Sestriere is the capital of the Via Lattea or as it is known to ski aficionados – The Milky Way – a series of lifts that link a number of villages and offers a combined ski area of 400 km covering 140 slopes. The skiing caters for all levels of ability from beginner’s slopes to the technically challenging trails that were used for the alpine events during the 2005/2006 Winter Olympics. Asides from the skiing there are other winter activities designed to challenge and thrill, such as heli-skiing, ski-doo trails, winter hikes and ice skating. The resort has a wide selection of restaurants and entertainment venues that will cater for all your Après-ski requirements, whilst in the surrounding area there are many fine medieval castles and churches if you’re looking to sample a taste of the local history and culture. Slope Life: Host of the 2005/2006 Winter Olympic Alpine events and capital of the Milky Way, Sestriere is the star around which all the other resorts in the region gravitate. The Milky Way or the Via Lattea comprises the villages/resorts of Sestriere, Sauze d’Oulx, Sansicario, Cesana-Claviere and Mont Genevre (in France), which offer up to 400 km of pistes and are interlinked by a series of lifts. Throughout the area there are runs to suit all levels. However, Sestriere which stands at 2,035 m has the best access and offers the highest (2,823 m) and most challenging pistes in the area with Monte Sises providing more expert black runs. Advanced skiers can also find plenty of challenging off piste action in and around the region. The Monte Motta/Banchetta Mountains are more suitable for the intermediate skier, whilst beginners will be able to frolic on the slopes just above the resort. The resort is serviced by 20 lifts and in order to access the rest of the Milky Way, take the Col Basset gondola to Sauze d’Olux. Ski passes range from 1 to 15 days. The Via Lattea 1 day pass includes access to the resorts of Sestriere, Sauze d’oulx, Sansicario, Cesana, Claviere. International passes are also available. Sestriere also has a selection of high quality ski schools for those taking their first tentative steps on the snow: Scuola Sci Sestriere +39 0122 77060 www.scuolascisestriere.com Scuola Sci Borgata +39 0122 77497 www.scuolasciborgata.com Scuola Sci Vialattea Sestriere +39 0122 76528 www.scuolascivialattea.it And for all your equipment needs, the following supplier will be happy to oblige: Centro Sci Sestriere 2 Via Pinerolo +43 720 990 293 www.rentasport.it

The archaeological site of Knossos is one of the most famous places on Crete. The drive from Chania takes quite a while, but there are numerous tour operators that organize trips here. Knossos is said to be the oldest city in Europe, whose remains still stand today.