Once sleepy fishing villages, the fabulous beaches of fine white sand of Agia Napa and Protaras, and the coastal area of Paralimni with its hundreds of windmills, nowadays buzz with life. This area is known collectively as the Kokkinochoria, “red soil villages,” because of the rich red earth in which Cyprus’ famous potatoes are grown. Culture lovers can explore the medieval churches found in villages like Sotira or go around the folk art museums displaying rural artefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Children will love the Marine Life museum or the new Sea Museum, “Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has an amazing replica of a 4th-century trading ship which sunk off the coast of Kyrenia. Or you could stop at the tiny estuary known by the locals as Potamos and watch the fishing boats haul in their catch in their multi-coloured baskets. Spend the day sunbathing at the beach, swimming in warm turquoise waters or taking a short cruise along the coast. Some of the best snorkelling and diving spots are at Cape Greco, the national forest park, with its secluded coves and rocky outcrops, impressive cliff-top views and sea caves. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants, especially the local ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latest sounds at one of the numerous nightclubs.

The well-known impressionist Claude Monet lived in Giverny his whole life. Today, you can visit his house and the very gardens that gave him inspiration to paint some of his most famous pieces of work.

Every four to five years tall ships come down the banks of the Seine to celebrate L'Armada de la Liberté in Rouen. The gathering of all these ships is a huge festival featuring numerous events, and it goes on for about ten days.

Cagayan de Oro is famous for its whitewater river rafting and kayaking, and there are many companies that specialise in the sport (Kagay Whitewater Rafting being one). Most are easily found along the riverside. The river has a series of rapids, rocks and boulders that make it a thrilling ride.