Lazy beach days

Asturias is a region of splendid beaches, unspoiled nature, dotted with rich architectural, industrial and cultural heritage. Apart from the region’s uncrowded beaches, there are lively inland cities and areas of great natural beauty. There are several major destinations in the Asturias region, including the cities of Oviedo, Gijon and Aviles, along with the scenic village of Ribadesella. Our guide includes tips and information concerning these four key Asturias locations.

With approximately 340 days of sunshine a year and six kilometres of soft white-sand beaches, Agadir is Morocco’s premiere beach resort. Nestled among the verdant valleys of the Great Souss and with the majestic Anti-Atlas mountain range rearing up behind it, this modern, cosmopolitan city has all the attendant pleasures, thrills and luxuries you could ask for.

Lucea's appeal goes beyond its stunning white-sand beaches, secluded coves, and picture-perfect sunsets. It also extends to the quaint colonial town that plays host to a bustling weekly market on Saturdays. Nestled between Montego Bay and Negril, Lucea is a tranquil and pristine destination that has yet to be overrun by tourists, unlike many other popular Jamaican getaways.

Like so many of the towns and cities of Egypt, Hurghada, Luxor and Marsa Alam are living history museums. The three cities are positioned as corners of a triangle in the Eastern Desert. Hurghada, a former fishing harbour, stretches 24 kilometres along the waterfront and is the perfect area for water sports. Marsa Alam is found by the Red Sea coast and tourism is just starting to make an impact. The city of Luxor, with its jaw-droppingly beautiful monuments built by the hands of ancient craftsmen, lies 240 kilometres inland on the banks of the River Nile.

Founded by the Greeks, taken over by the Romans and rebuilt by Alexander the Great before becoming part of the Ottoman Empire, İzmir is a city steeped in history, showcased in its archaeological sites and bazaars, However, the city has gracefully embraced modernity with its lively waterfront promenades and contemporary districts. Discover the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation in this Turkish city, where ancient tales unfold amidst modern vibes on the Aegean shores.

What started out as a busy fishing port on the central Tunisian coast is now a popular touristic destination showcasing some of the finest beaches in Northern Africa. Monastir offers a vast array of activities such as water sports, fishing and horse riding along with a long list of impressive hotels and restaurants. This culturally rich and enchanting city surrounded by Bedouin architecture is great to visit year-round due to the blissful Mediterranean climate and there is plenty to do and see for all ages.

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.

Although it is Malaysia’s smallest state, Penang Island (Pulau Pinang) is one of Asia’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations, reflecting the influences of half a dozen cultures. Located off the west coast of the Malaysian peninsula and connected by road bridges, the island is the birthplace of tourism in Malaysia. Come for great beaches, a mellow climate, and a colourful collection of attractions, many claiming to be the largest, tallest, longest, or oldest of their kind.