Take a stroll through Syracuse's history at the Onondaga County Historical Association Museum. Learn about the county's birth as well as its role in the abolition of slavery as part of the Underground Railroad before and during the American Civil War. See relics of some of the area's major past industries, including Franklin Automobile Company and Syracuse China. This is a great place to learn about the county's people and traditions.

Until the 16th century, Colmcille's monastery defined the island. In Toraigh, the most remote of all the inhabited Irish isles, tradition and high spirits abound. A Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region), this island is fiercely proud of its folklore, music and dance. A haven for artists, the beauty of this small island has inspired the imagination for generations. Other landmarks of note include the Lighthouse, the Wishing Stone, and Balor's Fort. An interesting fact is that this island traditionally elects its own king - the only place in Ireland to do so.

Cologne’s main opera house stages a mix of classic and contemporary productions, from Mozart to modern composers. The resident company is strong, and visiting performers keep the programme varied. The building itself is modern and a bit divisive—some love it, some don’t—but the acoustics are excellent.

The Museum of Fine Arts (Beaux-Arts in French) of la Rochelle has a rich collection of art works. The beautiful museum is located in the centre of town and is well worth a visit. Here you can find art works by Eugene Fromentin, William Bouguereau and Camille Corot.