"Can we just skip to the part of my life where I travel the world?"
This is Part Two of my Bucket List places to visit. This features 10 more places I have researched and thought "I'd love to go there!" Most aren't the most well-known or touristy places, but they look and sound spectacular and have been written about by many travel writers. I hope you will find inspiration to visit one or more of these special destinations.
1) Puglia, Italy
Known as the heel of Italy's boot, this charming region has something for everyone, from stunning coastlines and quaint hill towns to rich history and mouthwatering cuisine. Puglia is known for its beautiful coastline, ancient towns, extravagant churches, seas of olives, olive-green seas. The main airports are Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Brindisi Airport (BDS).
Best time to visit: Spring/Early Summer
Where to stay:
Ibis Syles Bari Giovinazzo
3-Star Hotel
Strategically located in an oasis of sun, sea and Mediterranean maquis, just 10 minutes from Bari airport and close to the major business centers and tourist attractions of the province, the hotel is the ideal place for business or leisure travelers who want to stay in an elegant and peaceful ambiance. The hotel offers 68 soundproofed rooms that are equipped with all modern comforts. It also offers a large car park, an outdoor swimming pool and 4 meeting rooms.
Palazzo de Noha
4-Star Hotel
Palazzo de Noha, in the Baroque old town of Lecce, a centuries-old building, marked by rough-hewn stone vaults, with ancient Roman ruins exposed by the glass floors of its corridors, has transformed into a modern boutique hotel furnished in contemporary Italian luxury style.
The nine rooms and suites combine antique architecture with high-end Italian-made design furniture, as well as artworks from the owners’ private collection and beautiful modern bathrooms, clad in a variety of marbles. High ceilings come with the territory, in classic Puglian style, and many have terraces or even, in one case, a Turkish bath.
Breakfast is served on the hotel’s lovely rooftop, by the poolside — and in the evening, this is the venue for a nightly aperitif as well. Given the location, not much else is necessary — you’re in the heart of Lecce, surrounded not only by fine restaurants but, in the surrounding countryside, no end of wineries, cheesemakers, and other purveyors of Puglia’s considerable culinary heritage.
Masseria Torre Maizza
5-Star Hotel
Masseria Torre Maizza is located in the most glamorous destination on the Italian Adriatic coast. Inspired by the sensational landscapes of Puglia and the ethos of Rocco Forte Hotels, it exquisitely blends local heritage with contemporary luxury and unparalleled service.
Surrounded by ancient olive groves, the renovated 16th century masseria is filled with thoughtful design accents and details to create a unique sense of place, from the stunning Olga Polizzi-designed rooms and suites to the romantic sunset rooftop bar and elegant restaurant overlooking the swimming pool. The resort also features a 9-hole executive golf course, a private beach club and an indulgent spa.
Things to do in Puglia:
Explore the Castellana Caves
Visit the Old Town of Gallipolli
Stroll around Alberbello
Hike in the Terre delle Gravine National Reserve
Snorkel the Adriatic Coast
Enjoy some Orecchiette pasta or pucce
Sycle the Itria Valley
Visit the town of Lecce
See Castel del Monte
Take a boat tour to Zinzulusa Cave
Valleta, Malta
Valletta, Malta's capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. The city is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Malta International Airport (MLA) is the main airport serving Valletta and the rest of Malta. It's well-connected to major cities across Europe and some cities in the Middle East.
Best time to visit: Spring, Early Summer
Where to stay:
Melior Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Melior Boutique Hotel is a quaint hideaway in the heart of the Valletta city. This boutique hotel in Malta overlooks magical Republic Street. Experience the Mediterranean way of life from inside the walls of Valletta. The hotel also features a spa for your relaxation and indulgence.
AX the St. John
4-Star Hotel
Although the Saint John is housed in a 17th-century building in the heart of the beautiful historic capital city of Malta Valletta, its outlook is firmly in the present. Offering 21 personalized rooms equipped with the latest technology, it aims for a unique blend of comfort style and technology. Each guest can use their own smartphone to customize their stay using an app service to change the room temperature, order room service and connect to the smart TV all using the free wireless internet provided to all. Every room in Comfort Deluxe Superior and Superior Quad formats has a different design and layout all built around a retro almost industrial theme. The experience is topped off with the Cheeky Monkey gastropub serving tasty pub-style food and the corporate facilities including private meeting rooms that can host as many as 16 people.
The Phoenicia
5-Star Hotel
The Phoenicia is located just 50 meters from the entrance to Valletta and the new parliament building both designed by world renowned architect Renzo Piano. The hotel's location is ideal to discover the fortified capital city built by the Knights of St John and is within walking distance from St John's Co-Cathedral, Museums, Mediterranean Conference Centre, the Grand Master's Palace, Manoel Theatre etc. The Valletta waterfront, with Malta's only Cruise terminal is just 5 minutes away by Taxi. The hotel boasts 7 acres of mature, landscaped gardens with the Bastion pool at the end of the gardens. This secluded area is nestled by the fortification walls of the city and has panoramic views of Marsamxett harbor. The Phoenicia is Malta's oldest Luxury hotel built in the 1930's and is a historic graded building. The elevation of the hotel also means that most of the rooms offer great views of Marsamxett harbor, Grand Harbour, the capital city and the town of Floriana. The hotel also owns the largest private collection of painting by one of Malta's best-known artist, Edward Caruana Dingli.
Things to do in Valleta:
Visit the St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Explore the Lascaris War Rooms
Enjoy the views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from the Upper Barrakka Gardens
Watch the daily cannon firing ceremony at the Saluting Battery
Learn about the history and culture of Malta at the National War Museum and the Malta Experience
Visit the palaces and museums of Valletta, such as the Casa Rocca Piccola, the Palais Le Brun, and the Grandmaster’s Palace
Stroll along the Valletta Waterfront
Experience the nightlife of Valletta at the Strait Street
Taste the local cuisine and specialties of Malta, such as pastizzi, rabbit stew, and ftira
Take a day trip to the nearby attractions, such as the medieval city of Mdina, the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, or the prehistoric temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra
Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, is a charming destination that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and picturesque landscapes. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland, about 115 km (71 miles) away. From Zurich, you can take a train to Sargans or Buchs and then a bus to Vaduz.
Best time to visit: April to October
Where to stay:
Hotel Oberland
3-Star Hotel
Located close to Liechtenstein National Museum and Liechtenstein Art Museum, Hotel Oberland provides free continental breakfast, a terrace, and a sauna. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi.
Parkhotel Sonnenhof
4-Star Hotel
Located close to Wine Cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein and Treasury of Liechtenstein Museum, Parkhotel Sonnenhof provides a free breakfast buffet, 18 holes of golf, and a terrace. Get out on the links at this hotel and enjoy amenities such as a driving range, golf lessons, and a golf clubhouse. Indulge in a sports massage, a body treatment, and reflexology at the onsite spa. The on-site international cuisine fine-dining restaurant, Marée, offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, light fare, and al fresco dining. Enjoy onsite activities like mountain biking and ecotours. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, with speed of 500+ Mbps (good for 6+ people or 10+ devices), and guests can find other amenities such as designer stores on site and a garden.
Palais Bad Ragaz
5-Star Hotel
At Palais Bad Ragaz, a luxury hotel in the mountains, you can look forward to free continental breakfast, a free daily manager's reception, and a terrace. Indulge in a massage at Termal Spa, the onsite spa. Be sure to enjoy a meal at any of the 7 on-site restaurants. Fitness classes and Pilates classes are offered at the health club; Palais Bad Ragaz also has a garden, dry cleaning/laundry services, and 2 bars. Free in-room WiFi and a business center are available to all guests.
Things to do in Vaduz:
Vaduz Castle: The official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein, perched on a hill overlooking the city. While the castle itself is not open to the public, the surrounding area offers fantastic views.
Liechtenstein National Museum: Showcases the history, culture, and art of Liechtenstein, providing deep insights into the country’s heritage.
Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein: A modern art museum with a collection that includes works from the 19th century to contemporary pieces.
Postal Museum: Offers a fascinating look at the history of Liechtenstein's postal services and stamp collections.
St. Florin Cathedral: A neo-Gothic church built in the 19th century, known for its stunning architecture.
Rheinpark Stadion: The national stadium of Liechtenstein, which hosts football matches and other events.
Hiking: The surrounding Alps provide excellent opportunities for hiking, with trails that offer spectacular views of the Rhine Valley and the Swiss Alps.
Cycling: There are numerous cycling paths that traverse through scenic landscapes and along the Rhine River.
Winter Sports: During winter, nearby Malbun offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports activities.
San Marino, Italy
San Marino, a small, independent republic entirely surrounded by Italy, is one of the world's oldest republics and boasts a rich history and stunning landscapes. The closest major airport is Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI) in Rimini, Italy, about 25 km (15 miles) away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to San Marino.
Best time to visit: Summer or Fall
Where to stay:
Hotel Rosa
3-Star Hotel
Hotel Rosa has been a family-run hotel for three generations in the historic center of San Marino, open all year round, since 1965. A historic structure, located on the top of Mount Titano, in a strategic and panoramic position, at the foot of the first Guaita Tower, between the ancient walls and with a splendid view of the Montefeltro valleys.
Hotel Cesare
4-Star Hotel
In the heart of the ancient historic center of San Marino, the hotel is located in the pedestrian area within the ancient walls, a few meters from the nearby parking lots. Often, in fact, it is portrayed in aerial photos of the first tower "La Rocca", the largest of the famous "Three Towers" of San Marino. The 4-star Hotel Cesare offers 18 comfortable rooms in the heart of the historic center of San Marino. The rooms are really welcoming, with cherry wood furniture and parquet flooring in all the rooms.
In the morning, guests will be captivated by a rich breakfast buffet with fresh local products.
Grand Hotel Da Vinci
5-star Hotel
The Grand Hotel Da Vinci in Cesenatico stands out as an exceptional hotel, where luxury is epitomized by the beauty of the furnishings, the superior quality of materials, and the unparalleled level of services. From the exquisite rooms to the culinary delights of the Monnalisa Restaurant, from the pampering experiences at the Dolce Vita Spa to the exclusive access to the private beach, every aspect exudes opulence and sophistication. Immerse yourself in privacy and serenity amidst the lush private garden and refreshing swimming pool.
Things to do in San Marino:
Historic Centre and Mount Titano: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the historic center is perched on Mount Titano and offers stunning views, medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets.
The Three Towers: Guaita, Cesta, and Montale towers are iconic symbols of San Marino, offering breathtaking views and historical exhibits. Guaita is the oldest and most famous, while Cesta houses the Museum of Ancient Arms.
Palazzo Pubblico: The town hall and official government building, featuring neo-Gothic architecture. The changing of the guard ceremony is a popular attraction.
Basilica di San Marino: A neoclassical church dedicated to the patron saint, Saint Marinus. It’s known for its elegant architecture and serene interior.
State Museum: Showcases artifacts from San Marino's history, including archaeological finds, art, and coins.
Museum of Curiosities: A quirky museum with an array of odd and unusual exhibits.
Museum of Torture: Displays historical torture devices, offering a grim but fascinating look at medieval justice.
Hiking: Numerous trails around Mount Titano offer opportunities for hiking with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea.
Shopping: San Marino is known for its duty-free shopping. The narrow streets of the city center are lined with shops selling souvenirs, jewelry, local crafts, and luxury goods.
Giethoorn, Netherlands
Giethoorn is famously known for its canals, charming wooden bridges, and lack of roads, earning it the nickname "Venice of the North" or "Venice of the Netherlands." Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the main international airport in the Netherlands and the largest airport near Giethoorn. Since hotels are scarce, it's best to rent a car and visit this quaint town.
Best time to visit: Spring or Summer
Where to stay:
Boutique hotel ' t Gerecht (16 miles from Giethoorn)
3-Star Hotel
From a historic location to a contemporary Grand Café and Boutique Hotel, where everyone is welcome. Formerly a place where tax assessments were processed and court rulings were made, this place has now been transformed into the hospitality hotspot of Friesland. Here guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, drinks and dinner! Experience the perfect combination of ambiance, service, gastronomy and accommodation.
Stadspaleis Hotel OldRuitenborgh (7 miles from Giethoorn)
4-Star Hotel
Take advantage of a terrace, a coffee shop/cafe, and a garden at Stadspaleis Hotel OldRuitenborgh. Treat yourself to a deep-tissue massage or other spa services. The on-site French cuisine restaurant, Stadspaleis, offers lunch and dinner. In addition to a hair salon and laundry facilities, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
Châteauhotel en restaurant De Havixhorst
5-Star Hotel
There are few places in the Netherlands where this can be as delightful as at manor De Havixhorst, in the southernmost part of Drenthe. Get acquainted with this unique château hotel and restaurant. And while you're here, treat yourself to a leisurely stroll through the special sculpture garden after a delightful candlelit dinner. Stay overnight and enjoy the following morning - after a delicious, extensive Dutch breakfast - with a refreshing walk through the picturesque Reestdal, or farther into the lush nature of Drenthe and Overijssel, two of the greenest provinces in the Netherlands.
Things to do in Giethoorn:
Explore the Canals by Boat: Rent a whisper boat (electric boat) or join a guided boat tour to navigate the narrow canals lined with thatched-roof farmhouses and gardens. This is the best way to experience the unique water-centric layout of Giethoorn.
Visit Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus: Learn about the history, culture, and traditional lifestyle of Giethoorn at this local museum. It showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that offer insights into the village's past.
Walk or Cycle Along the Pathways: Explore the scenic pathways that wind through the village and the surrounding countryside. These paths offer beautiful views of the canals, bridges, and wildlife.
Biking: Rent a bicycle and ride through the peaceful lanes of Giethoorn and its neighboring areas. It's a relaxing way to soak in the rural charm of the village.
Visit De Oude Aarde (The Old Earth): This unique museum and shop feature a vast collection of minerals, gemstones, fossils, and crystals. It's a fascinating place to visit for both adults and children interested in earth sciences and natural history.
Relax and Enjoy Local Cuisine: Giethoorn has several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy traditional Dutch dishes, seafood, and local specialties. Many eateries offer outdoor seating with views of the canals.
Village Center: Wander through the village center and browse the quaint shops selling souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local products. Pick up unique gifts to remember your trip to Giethoorn.
Visit Nearby Attractions: Weerribben-Wieden National Park: Explore the nearby national park known for its wetlands, lakes, and diverse wildlife. It's a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.
Andorra la Vella, Andorra
Traveling to Andorra la Vella, the capital city of the Principality of Andorra, is an exciting journey into a small but stunning country nestled in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain. The nearest international airports are located in Barcelona (Spain) and Toulouse (France). From these airports, you can travel to Andorra la Vella by car, bus, or private transfer.
Best time to visit: Winter or Summer
Where to stay:
Hotel Les Closes
3-Star Hotel
Located close to Pyrenees Andorra Shopping Centre, Hotel Les Closes provides a free breakfast buffet, a terrace, and a coffee shop/cafe. The on-site restaurant offers lunch and dinner. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, and guests can find other amenities such as a bar.
Hotel Starc by Pierre & Vacances Premium
4-Star Hotel
Luxurious rooms with jacuzzi, gastronomic restaurant and lounge bar: this brand new hotel promises a 4-star stay in the heart of Andorra La Vella. It is also the ideal starting point to enjoy the 210 km of ski slopes, both in the Vallnord sector and in the Grandvalira mountains.
Andorra Park Hotel
5-Star Hotel
Andorra Park Hotel, the first five-star hotel in Andorra, offers a luxury experience in an archetypal building that unites the past with the present in its unique facilities. Built in 1957 with authentic Alpine architecture and framed by the Pyrenees mountains, it has incorporated contemporary facilities into its traditional environment and the nature of the setting. Each of its stylish rooms has been designed to offer guests maximum comfort and an excellent hotel.
Things to do in Andorra:
Shopping: Explore the city's tax-free shopping opportunities, with a focus on electronics, luxury goods, and outdoor gear. The main shopping areas include Avinguda Meritxell and Avinguda Carlemany.
Casa de la Vall: The historic parliament building dating back to the 16th century.
Sant Esteve Church: A Romanesque church located in the heart of the city.
Caldea Spa: Relax at Europe's largest thermal spa, offering a range of thermal pools, jacuzzies, saunas, and wellness treatments.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Visit nearby ski resorts such as Grandvalira and Vallnord during the winter months.
Hiking and Mountain Biking: Explore the Pyrenees mountains with numerous trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking.
Cultural Events: Check local events and festivals that may be happening during your visit, such as concerts, exhibitions, and traditional celebrations.
Nicosia, Cyprus
Traveling to Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean charm. The main international airport serving Nicosia and Cyprus is Larnaca International Airport (LCA), located about 50 km southeast of Nicosia. There's also Paphos International Airport (PFO), about 120 km southwest of Nicosia.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
Where to stay:
Gate Twenty Two Boutique Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Located close to Cyprus Library and Ledra Street, Gate Twenty Two Boutique Hotel provides free full breakfast, a coffee shop/cafe, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Be sure to enjoy a meal at the two on-site restaurants. In addition to a bar, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi, with speed of 50+ Mbps.
Casa Panayiotis
4-Star Hotel
With authentic mountain tradition at its heart, Casale Panayiotis is a luxurious retreat from hustle and bustle. Lovingly restored to preserve a local way of life, the hotel is an ode to simpler living with boutique touches that make it perfect for the modern traveler. Set among vineyards, orchards and an artisanal local community, the hotel has been instrumental in restoring the history of the area with tradition and natural beauty coming together in this lesser travelled part of Cyprus. The rooms range from cozy and romantic to full family suites with a fireplace and spiral staircase. Spend the mornings gazing across rugged mountainscapes from your balcony before taking to the trails to meet wildlife by mountain bike, electric bike or on foot. Make your sojourn even sweeter with a beekeeping and honey experience or explore the unspoiled forests, Venetian bridges and Byzantine Monasteries of the surrounding area. And after a day of adventure, ease your tired toes in the Myrianthousa Spa with treatments fit for Cypriot and Venetian royalty. Round off your evening with a meal in Byzantino Restaurant, where handmade local specialties flood your senses. Casale Panayiotis is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property.
Map Hotel
5-Star Hotel
Your Smart Sanctuary in the Heart of the Ancient Capital. Every feature of MAP's spacious minimal and meticulously designed rooms is fully integrated with your phone. Adjust the temperature, peruse the menu, dim the lights or slide open the curtains to reveal the stunning view of the iconic Venetian Wall - all from the comfort of your luxury Coco-Mat mattress. Savor the rich local cuisine with creations from the seasoned palate of Chef Dionysis Zacharopoulos. Combined with the region's finest wines and signature cocktails, SCALE will transform your breakfast lunch and dinner into daily culinary snapshots of the islands exuberant culture. From high quality strength training equipment to a plethora of cardio machines and an impressive stack of free weights, The Grid is a show-stopping gym. LEGEND SPA will revitalize your mind, body and soul.
Things to do in Nicosia:
Ledra Street: A lively pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Venetian Walls: Explore the historic Venetian walls and gates that once protected the city.
Cyprus Museum: Discover Cyprus' archaeological treasures and artifacts.
Leventis Municipal Museum: Learn about Nicosia’s history and culture through multimedia exhibits.
Selimiye Mosque (formerly Cathedral of Saint Sophia): A stunning example of Gothic architecture converted into a mosque during Ottoman rule.
Orthodox Cathedral of Saint John: A beautiful Greek Orthodox cathedral with intricate frescoes and architecture.
Laiki Geitonia: Wander through this restored neighborhood filled with traditional shops, tavernas, and craft stores.
Try Cypriot Cuisine: Sample local dishes such as souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), halloumi cheese, and meze (a selection of small dishes).
Corsica, France
Traveling to Corsica, France, offers a unique blend of rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine. The main airports in Corsica are Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA) and Bastia Poretta Airport (BIA). They have flights connecting Corsica to major French cities (Paris, Marseille, Nice) and some European destinations.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
Where to stay:
Hotel Casa Rossa
3-Star Hotel
Located in L'Île Rousse, Hotel Casa Rossa is just 300 metres from the town centre and the beach. Residence made of stone walls, with outdoor swimming pool, small garden and a pleasant, shaded terrace. The air-conditioned rooms at Hotel Résidence Casa Rossa feature a balcony, a desk and a flat-screen TV. Each unit comes with an en suite bathroom with a bath or shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. The Studios and Superior Rooms have an equipped kitchen. A buffet breakfast is served every morning. Guests can relax with a drink by the pool and dine in one of the nearby restaurants. The property is 300 metres from L'Île Rousse Port and 2 km from the famous Bodri Beach.
La Roya
4-Star Hotel
Surrounded by rugged mountains and turquoise-blue waters, La Roya is a coastal hideaway at the foot of the Cap Corse peninsula. An ode to Mother Nature, this boutique hotel features a vibrant, green floral garden complete with breath-taking views of the Mediterranean. From the outdoor wellness center - offering room-with-a-view massages under the shade of the pergola - to the fresh-from-the-market produce served at the restaurant, La Roya is a product of its location. Spend a day island-hopping on your very own boat or try your hand at a new skill - from horseback riding to paragliding. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a Michelin-starred meal at the hotel restaurant inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean and the gastronomical delights of Corsica. Unwind with an after-dinner drink on the pergola, as you watch the sun set over Saint Florent. Hotel La Roya is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property.
Hotel Casadelmar Porto-Vecchio
5-Star Hotel
Hotel Casadelmar allows guests stunning views of the Mediterranean. Rooms and Facilities Rooms feature oversize windows, stone floors and brightly colored fabrics that reflect both the calm and liveliness of Corsican life. All offer outdoor terraces looking over the bay of Porto-Vecchio and superb indoor details. Dine on refined cuisine at the 2 Michelin starred Casadelmar Restaurant or relax with a cocktail at the beachfront Grill Restaurant or pool bar.
If you want to just lounge instead, there is no better place to do it than the outdoor infinity pool. Leisure lovers also frequent the 250 sqm ESPA beauty center with hammam/sauna/ sensory shower/relaxation rooms/manicure and pedicure rooms with a sea view.
Amazing fitness overlooking the bay is linked to internet.
Activities include Scuba diving, jet skiing, water skiing and even a hired speedboat for the day can be arranged by the professional staff. A free shuttle boat service allows guests to go to the sister property, La Plage Casadelmar Hotel where they can access the beach.
Things to do in Corsica:
Palombaggia Beach: Known for its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand.
Calanques de Piana: Spectacular red granite cliffs plunging into the turquoise sea on the west coast.
Bavella Needles: Dramatic mountain peaks and hiking trails in the Bavella Massif.
Hike the GR20: One of Europe's most famous hiking trails, known for its challenging terrain and stunning mountain scenery. It typically takes 10-15 days to complete.
Bonifacio: A picturesque town perched on cliffs overlooking the sea, with a citadel and medieval old town.
Ajaccio: Birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, with historic sites like the Maison Bonaparte (Napoleon's birth home).
Sailing and Windsurfing: Explore the coastline and take advantage of the island's windy conditions.
Diving and Snorkeling: Discover Corsica's underwater world with its rich marine life and clear waters.
Try Corsican Cuisine:
Charcuterie: Corsica is famous for its cured meats such as lonzu (pork loin) and coppa (cured pork shoulder).
Cheeses: Sample local cheeses like brocciu, made from sheep or goat milk.
Seafood: Fresh fish and seafood dishes, reflecting Corsica's coastal location.
Helsinki, Finland
Traveling to Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, offers a blend of modern Nordic culture, stunning architecture, and a vibrant waterfront. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the main international airport, located about 17 km north of the city center. It's well-connected to major European cities and serves as a hub for flights to Asia as well.
Best time to visit: Spring or Fall
Where to stay:
Scandi Helsinki Hub
3-Star Hotel
Modern urban hotel in an impressive 1920's printing house next to the Old Church Park in Helsinki city center. Loft-style rooms, an inviting restaurant area and inspiring setting for a relaxed stay.
Hotel U14
4-Star Hotel
Hotel U14 is a new Finnish-owned boutique hotel located only a few steps away from the beautiful Esplanadi Park and the Market Square. Hotel offers guests a contemporary hotel with inspiring décor and a cozy ambiance, combined with upscale hotel amenities. The hotel accommodates a total of 117 rooms, pleasant meeting rooms, a high quality and joyful restaurant, a distinctive cocktail bar, sauna and gym. The hotel is a living space for employees and guests which offers a free place to unfold and allows everyone to feel inspired.
Hotel Kamp
5-Star Hotel
Since 1887 Hotel Kämp has been the safe haven in the heart of Helsinki for both locals and visitors alike. While visiting Kämp, I recommend you explore the high-class Kämp services: Kämp Bar, restaurant Brasserie Kämp and Kämp Spa are open every day.
Things to do in Helsinki:
Helsinki Cathedral: Iconic landmark with neoclassical architecture overlooking Senate Square.
Suomenlinna Fortress: UNESCO World Heritage site and sea fortress accessible by ferry, with museums, parks, and stunning views.
Ateneum Art Museum: Finnish and international art collections, including works by Edvard Munch and Vincent van Gogh.
Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art: Exhibitions of modern and contemporary art from Finnish and international artists.
Helsinki Market Square (Kauppatori): Bustling market with stalls selling local produce, crafts, and food.
Esplanadi Park: Green space lined with cafes, perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
Löyly Sauna: Contemporary seaside sauna complex with saunas, a terrace for swimming, and restaurant.
Kotiharju Sauna: One of Helsinki's oldest public saunas, offering an authentic Finnish sauna experience.
Try Finnish Cuisine: Sample local dishes like salmon soup, Karelian pastries, and reindeer meat.
Coffee Culture: Enjoy coffee at one of Helsinki's many cafes, known for their Scandinavian design and cozy atmosphere.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia, located in central Turkey, is renowned for its unique landscape, ancient history, and hot air balloon-filled skies. The nearest major airport is Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV), with domestic flights from Istanbul and other Turkish cities. Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) is another option, located about 80 km from Cappadocia.
Best time to visit: Spring or Fall
Where to stay:
Anatolian Houses
3-Star Hotel
Close to Goreme Open Air Museum, Anatolian Houses provides a free breakfast buffet, a poolside bar, and a terrace. Adventurous travelers may like the spelunking, ecotours, and cycling at this hotel. Indulge in a body treatment, aromatherapy, and a deep-tissue massage at Anatolian SPA, the onsite spa. In addition to a coffee shop/cafe and a garden, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
Argos in Cappadocia
4-Star Hotel
The 71 rooms in Argos in Cappadocia, designed to blend in with the landscape and historical texture of the region and meticulously built in 26 years, promise 71 different experiences to their guests. Overlooking the Pigeon Valley, Mount Erciyes and fairy chimneys, the 71 rooms on graded terraces offer a unique pastoral feast for the eye. They can be divided into five categories based on their size. It is also safe to say that there are “71 different categories". Offering fireplace, terrace or cave alternatives, these unique rooms, each with a different aura and personality, share the same gusto. Rustic niches and corners shaped by the volcanic rocks in the region create living spaces that combine traditional Turkish handicrafts with modern furniture in great harmony. Both locally and internationally recognized as the “Most Romantic” and the “Best Wedding Hotel”, Argos in Cappadocia is the choice of honeymoon couples with rooms featuring private pools – a rarity.
Ariana Lodge
5-Star Hotel
Striking architecture, stylish interiors and a stunning Cappadocia hilltop setting. Perched high in the Uchisar Valley canyons, Ariana Lodge is part of a landscape dotted with ancient wonders. Designed with sustainability in mind, tiered gardens encircle this boutique retreat - with sun terraces for sitting back and admiring the views. As you do, look out too for the hotel chefs as they pick out just-dug ingredients for the evening menu. From breakfast to dinner, The Plum Restaurant serves fresh, seasonal cuisine in a contemporary, light-filled space. With floor-to-ceiling windows, your meal will be accompanied by spectacular valley vistas. You can savor thoughtful treats from dawn to dusk, whether it is afternoon tea, evening port and cookies or complimentary local wine. Or unwind in your luxury room with its espresso machine and fireplace for snug nights in. Chic and contemporary, each room and suite at Ariana Lodge has its own look - but all promise custom-made furnishings and distinctive architecture. Pick from an enchanting, vaulted Cave Room or one of the Loft Suites, where beds sit on an airy mezzanine level. Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property.
Things to do in Cappadocia:
Hot Air Balloon Ride:
Göreme: Experience the breathtaking sunrise over the unique fairy chimneys and rock formations of Cappadocia from a hot air balloon.
Explore Fairy Chimneys and Rock Formations:
Göreme Open-Air Museum: UNESCO World Heritage site with rock-cut churches and frescoes dating back to the Byzantine period.
Pasabag (Monks Valley): Known for its mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and rock-cut dwellings.
Underground Cities:
Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı: Explore ancient underground cities carved into soft volcanic rock, used as hiding places by early Christians.
Hiking and Nature Walks:
Rose Valley and Red Valley: Hike through scenic valleys dotted with rock-cut churches and orchards, especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset.
Love Valley: Known for its phallic-shaped rock formations and panoramic views.
Traditional Villages:
Ürgüp, Avanos, and Uçhisar: Visit charming towns known for their handicrafts, pottery, and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Avanos: Famous for its pottery workshops and the Red River (Kızılırmak), where you can take a pottery-making class.
Cultural Experiences:
Turkish Night: Enjoy an evening of traditional Turkish music, dance performances, and local cuisine.
Carpet Weaving Demonstrations: Learn about the art of Turkish carpet weaving and purchase handmade carpets as souvenirs.
What's next on your bucket list?
I've always wanted to go to Corsica. Maybe one day!