Erfoud, a desert town in eastern Morocco, is often seen as the last stop before the endless dunes of the Sahara begin. But this oasis holds more than just a convenient location. Known as the "Gateway to the Desert," Erfoud is steeped in history that predates the modern borders of Morocco. It was once a French colonial outpost, and today, its dusty streets and adobe buildings offer a glimpse into a slower, older way of life that still shapes the region’s identity.
Spanning from the Atlantic to the Pacific, its geography encompasses everything from mountain ranges and fertile plains to vibrant cities and quiet coastal towns. Each region tells its own story.
Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, stands apart from its island neighbors with its blend of neoclassical architecture, Orthodox and Catholic traditions, and year-round local life. Ermoupoli, the main town, was once a thriving 19th-century port and still displays its legacy through grand mansions, marble-paved squares, and the imposing Apollo Theater which was designed by an Italian architect and often referred to as a miniature La Scala.
Wales is a country where centuries-old castles rise above green valleys and coastlines are marked by rugged cliffs and quiet coves. Its capital, Cardiff, combines modern architecture with historical landmarks like Cardiff Castle, which has Roman origins and a Victorian Gothic interior. Just outside the city, St Fagans National Museum of History offers a walk-through experience of Welsh life over the past 500 years, with original buildings relocated from across the country.
The Costa Brava coastal region, in northeastern Spain, offers excellent beaches and a typical Mediterranean climate, making it an enticing holiday destination. While parts of the Costa Brava coastline have been exploited by large-scale tourist developments, other areas have retained their traditional roots.