As its own self-contained oasis of relaxation, Avila Beach is California’s whisper of a getaway. Far more calm and smaller than other cities along the coast, Avila Beach is a veritable resort town. Visitors are invited to shed their worries at the shoreline and take to the multitude of amenities and entertainment. Dine alongside sunsets, sip on local wines, decompress in the mineral hot springs, and feel rejuvenated with a stay in Avila Beach.

"The city in its setting and entire surroundings may be said to have something ideal." (Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1797). Scarcely any other European city has had its praises so often sung as Heidelberg. The mysterious Heidelberg Castle, the picturesque Old Town, and as Goethe himself stated, the perfection of its setting – in the nineteenth century, all of this attracted the German romanticists, who immortalized Heidelberg in poetry, music, and art. Today the charm of Old Heidelberg is combined with a future-oriented and international focus.

‘City of Caves’ and ‘Queen of the Midlands’ are two names fondly given to the city of Nottingham, which accurately reflects its hugely diverse nature, rich with cultural heritage and modern day entertainment. A city with a fascinating past and an exciting and buzzing present, Nottingham has everything to offer – from high culture, haute couture and widely acclaimed restaurants to the world famous legend of Robin Hood.

Nestled between Sweden's largest lakes, Vänern and Vättern, Skövde is a picturesque city framed by the blooming mountain Billingen. Skövde pulses with year-round cultural events, entertainment, and sports. While Billingen offers a natural haven with waterfalls, small lakes, and nature reserves for outdoor enthusiasts. What's more, accessibility is a highlight, as it takes just an hour from Gothenburg and two from Stockholm to reach this dynamic city, making it a convenient destination for diverse experiences.

Faro serves as the Algarve's historic capital, where traditional Portuguese architecture meets the region's natural coastal beauty. The compact old town features whitewashed buildings, mosaic pavements and quiet plazas shaded by mature trees. Beyond the city limits, the Ria Formosa's lagoon system creates a protected habitat for migratory birds, while sandy barrier islands stretch along the Atlantic coast. While day trips beckon, don't overlook Faro's own golden beaches and the wildlife-rich lagoon.