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Western Mediterranean
Palma, Majorca
Think leafy boulevards that echo with the stilettos of stylish shoppers. Tiny tapas bars tucked down narrow sidestreets. And architectural gold hidden in the historic quarter. With its trademark Gothic cathedral dominating the skyline, Palma never fails to impress.
Porto, Portugal
Its hard not to be wooed by Porto. Portugals second largest city is a World Heritage Site that won the grand title European Capital of Culture in the early noughties. A great blend of commercial character and traditional charm, its topsy-turvy old streets lead steeply down to a Medieval waterfront. Theres a tram system, too, so getting arounds easy.
" Spend some time exploring the city, clicking snaps of the 14th-century
Bellver Castle, browsing the boutiques and tasting tapas in the bars that barnacle the backstreets. " Love to shop? Then head for Inca, the islands biggest street market, which opens every Thursday.
" Of course, Portos main claim to fame is producing port so why not take a
wine-tasting tour in Vila Nova de Gaia? Crammed cheek to cheek with more than 60 wine lodges, this area of historic warehouses is Portos best-known attraction. Tour, taste and, of course, buy your favourites. " Take a look at the Se, Portos 13th-century cathedral. Its home to a clutch of treasures including a gilded painting of the Last Supper, a beautiful rose window and tranquil cloisters.
Portimao, Portugal
Beaches dont come much better than the one at Praia da Rocha, right next door to Portimao. Not only is it one of the most spectacular sandy stretches on the Algarve, its actually one of the most photographed in Europe and has lured holidaymakers since the Thirties.
Toulon, France
Fusing French Riviera glam with the feel of a traditional old town, Toulon is your gateway to the Cote dAzur.
" Devote some serious time to this famous beach thats 2 kilometres long
and more than 100 metres wide. The elements have worked their magic on the red and yellow sandstone that backs the sands. Locals have even come up with names for the weird and wonderful rock formations. Keep an eye out for Three Bears and Two Brothers. " Wander along the promenade on Praia da Rochas cliff-top, which leads to the Fortress of Santa Catarina. Built in 1621 to defend Portimao against opposing fleets, its now home to a great al fresco café.
" Pick a café on the promenade and enjoy a plate of fresh mussels and a
glass of wine as you watch fishermen mending their nets.
" Follow the sound of popping corks and clinking champagne flutes to
stylish St-Tropez, a long-time glitterati favourite.
" Venture into the breathtaking Provence countryside and stumble upon
sleepy French villages. This enchanting region has inspired many a great master, including Van Gogh and Cezanne.
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