Build in the 1670s as the administrative centre of the island and military grounds, the bright red Fort Christian now hosts the St Thomas museum. Explore the old photos, antique furniture and artifacts connected to the history of the island.

A weekend trip to Ghent is simply not complete without a visit to the mysterious ‘Castle of the Counts’. This important sight in Ghent is a castle with a very turbulent past, closely intertwined with the complex—often stormy—political and social history of the city. It is the only remaining mediaeval castle with a moat and largely intact defence system in Flanders. Your visit to the Castle of the Counts will give you a complete picture of heraldic culture in the 12th century. The gatehouse, ramparts, keep, count’s residence and stables are open to visitors. Be sure to go up the long spiral staircase to the museum of torture devices on the top floor of the Castle of the Counts. Here, you will find a unique collection of instruments for torture and coercion, as well as a collection of weapons. The Castle of the Counts also hosts all kinds of cultural activities, events and activities, for example during the Ghent Festivities. It is also a popular place to get married for Ghent’s locals. Let’s not forget the time the Castle of the Counts was occupied by protesting students in 1949! Explore the castle during your weekend trip in Ghent and find out all about the ‘Battle of the Castle of the Counts’. The keep, symbol of the Counts’ power Go back in time inside this majestic fortress. Its history goes back to the time of the Roman occupation, when there was already a settlement on a sand bank by the River Lys. After a brief period of Viking plundering, the Counts of Flanders converted the earlier wooden constructions into a keep (living quarters) in the Middle Ages, with ramparts built entirely of stone, replete with 24 towers. The imposing building with its military architecture was a symbol of the Counts’ power in the turbulent city of Ghent. Do you want to dig deep into the history of Ghent? This is where you need to be. Ghent, full of charming history and modern vibrancy.

Mount Rainier is an easy drive from Grand Mound to Ashford. Just an hour and a half away, the National Park is a must-see. With the warmer weather, myriad opportunities bloom for fun at the Park. Enjoy hiking, National Park camping, National Forest camping, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, mountaineering, road biking, trail running, and driving tours. The driving tours allow visitors to circle Rainier, explore scenic byways and take lots of pictures. During the cooler seasons, enjoy cross country skiing, snowmobiling, the Snowplay Area, snowshoeing, winter camping and snowboarding.

This imposing 14th-century Gothic cathedral stands tall atop the old Roman and Renaissance city walls, looking out over Palma's harbour and old town. It was built over hundreds of years on the ruins of the mosque that once stood there. Famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí had a hand in the restoration project early in the 20th century, though he quit the project over a dispute with the contractor. This beautiful architectural wonder offers breathtaking views in every direction and is the perfect starting point for a walking tour through the city.