Cape Verde's second city is also the undisputed centre of culture, entertainment and nightlife, including Brazilian-influenced Carnival celebrations. Mindelo's Porto Grande harbour is a visual feast with its colourful colonial houses gracing the shoreline against the dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains. Alongside the harbour, you’ll also find the Torre de Belém, a scaled-down replica of the historic tower in Lisbon. This vibrant setting not only captivates the eyes but also offers a lively atmosphere, as Mindelo boasts excellent establishments for dining, drinking, and enjoying live music.

The greenest and smallest inhabited island in Cape Verde is sometimes called the 'island of flowers' due to its diversity of flora and fauna. It is also one of the most mountainous islands, known for its picturesque cliffs and gorges, making it another premier hiking destination.

The enchanting Kiso Valley, nestled in the heart of Japan, is a timeless treasure, where history breathes through its ancient pathways and rustic architecture. Four centuries ago, the picturesque villages of Magome and Tsumago served as crucial staging posts along the 500 km Nakasendo Highway, where feudal warlords journeyed annually to Edo (now Tokyo). Today, these villages retain their historic charm, with Magome seamlessly blending modern amenities with its traditional core, easily accessible by rail and bus from Nagoya. As you step onto the broad foot trail of 'old' Magome, the echoes of the past resonate, transporting you to an era untouched by time.

Loge de Mer, or "Sea Lodge" in English, is one of Perpignan’s finest and oldest historical sites. Made of river stones, it represents the typical architecture of the region. It used to be a stock exchange and the maritime consulate, as symbolized by the hard-to-miss iron vessel.