Sardinia / Sicily

About the destination: Alghero is one of the most stunning cities in Sardinia. Its beautiful beaches have made it a popular vacation spot, attracting droves of tourists every summer. Despite this, it has managed to maintain its unique charm and atmosphere. The narrow streets of the old city, known as Barcelonetta due to the island's Catalan history, are bustling on the peninsula, encircled by a fortified bastion. As visitors wander through this medieval world, they'll come across the impressive cathedral, constructed in the 16th century in a Catalan-Gothic style. The church of San Francesco boasts a stunning Gothic interior and a small golden cloister. From the quaint fishing port beneath the city walls, boats set sail for the Grotta di Nettuno or Neptune's Caves, one of the island's most breathtaking sights. However, the main allure of Alghero is undoubtedly strolling through its streets, uncovering its charming nooks and crannies while watching the sunset bathe the Mediterranean in a warm, glowing light.

About the destination: Taormina is a captivating town located on the hillside of the east coast of Sicily, Italy, and is one of the primary tourist attractions on the island. Since the 19th century, Taormina has been a highly sought-after tourist spot. It boasts popular beaches (reachable via a cable car) on the Ionian Sea, which is notably warm and has a high salt concentration. Ever since the inauguration of the first hotel in 1874, Taormina has emerged as one of the top tourist destinations worldwide. Here, visitors can enjoy a perfect blend of a charming old-world atmosphere, preservation of history and culture, and an elegant and vibrant lifestyle that can be appreciated during leisurely strolls through the pedestrian areas of the old town. There is plenty for tourists to do and see: high-quality art performances at the Greek theatre, numerous painting exhibitions in local palaces and churches, and upscale shopping along the renowned “Corso Umberto” with its classical music cafes and pastry shops. Visitors can also explore local art museums, take nature walks in the surrounding countryside, play golf at the nearby 18-hole course, and enjoy the fantastic easily accessible beaches. The mild Mediterranean climate allows for nearly eight months of water sports such as swimming, scuba diving, sailing, windsurfing, or simply sunbathing.