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The Bordeaux region of France is known for its wine and scenic landscape. The lifeblood of trade in this area has historically centered on the rivers: the Dordonge, the Garonne, and their estuary the Gironde. Sailing along these waters, you can encounter many acres of vineyards, but also the signs of long inhabitation. The white cliffs along the shore are riddled with caves that have provided homes for several centuries. And every now and then a more elaborate piece of architecture catches the eye, such as the church of St Radegonde.

Southern Switzerland is home to many tall mountains and has long been a favored destination for climbers. No peak has as much notoriety as the Matterhorn, which towers above the small village of Zermatt. While it is not the tallest mountain in Switzerland, its height (over 14,000 feet) and its distinctive peak, made it one of the last mountains in the range to be scaled. It was only in 1865 that the first party were able to reach the top, only to encounter disaster during their descent. With its alluring beauty and treacherous slopes, it remains a destination for climbers across the world . . . or for those who prefer not to brave the elements, you can get great views from the nearby mountain railway, and a warm drink in cozy Zermatt.

In the early 1900s, in a tranquil corner of the English countryside, a gentleman by the name of G. Baron Ash began transforming Packwood estate. His goal was to create a masterpiece which could set off his country hospitality. What emerged was an iconic garden and a house filled with antiques, fresh flowers and charm! However, Packwood was founded centuries before Baron Ash arrived, by a family of yeoman farmers. Not only did they put up the original structure around 1570, but successive generations improved the estate, creating an impressive brick mansion by the early 1700s. Packwood today owes its appearance in equal parts to both parties and is a country oasis welcoming all visitors!

For centuries, the city of Krakow has stood at the heart of Polish history. Legend says that the city was built on the site of a dragon’s lair, which today is known as the Wawel hill. While no dragons lurk beneath the hill anymore, as the former capital of the Polish kingdom, Krakow’s Wawel hill hosts an impressive array of walls and towers, along with the royal residence. However, with its towers and domed chapels, it is the Wawel Cathedral that steals the show. Numerous kings been crowned (and buried) here, and it continues to serve as a national monument, housing the Sigismund bell – a 13 ton cast bell from the 1500s which tolls only for important Polish holidays and events. No trip to Krakow would be complete without a walk up to the Wawel hill!

Along the coastline of Montenegro, in the Bay of Kotor, sits the town of Perast. While it is quiet now, up until the 1800s, it was a thriving city full of wealth. Overshadowing the city is the local legend. It is said that in 1492, local sailors found a painting of Madonna on a rock near the harbor. Taking it as a divine signal, they began to throw a rock into the sea after each successful trip – a custom which spread to other sailors from Perast. Over the centuries of rock throwing, an island emerged from the sea, on which they built a church (Our Lady of the Rocks). Centuries later, a church and museum still stands, enclosing the original painting which inspired it all.

In the peaceful countryside in Kent, England, you can find a gem called Ightham Mote. It might just be another charming country manor, but what makes this house unique are its historic foundations and architectural features, still visible today. The house sprang up in the early 1300s and is a reminder of what life was like in the Middle Ages. With over 70 rooms, Ightham Mote is a large square enclosing a central courtyard – complete with a moat around the outside! In earlier centuries, gaining access to the shady courtyard was only after passing the imposing gatehouse, but these days, the manor welcomes many visitors to admire its unique walls – and if walls could talk, they would have many stories! Having been passed through many families, Ightham hosted all manner of society, from local farmers to artists, such as John Singer Sargent. Truly a beautiful slice of history.

There is nothing quite like the hustle and bustle of an outdoor market, and in Libourne, France, the market is front and center – occupying the entire main square. Libourne is an old city, founded in 1270 on the banks of the Dordogne river where it meets the Isle. Unfortunately, as an important port along the river, it was plagued by the constant fighting in the region between the English and French. Despite a rocky past, today it proudly boasts remnants of the old fortified walls and a fine old city hall which serves as a backdrop for the market. As an oasis in the heart of France’s Bordeaux wine region, it is a great place to stop and take in everyday life.

Located at the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, Topkapi palace is a place rich in culture and history. The palace was built in the mid 1400s, after the Ottoman empire captured the city (then Constantinople). It served as the main residence of the Sultan and his court for centuries. Naturally, it was expanded as time went on, although the basic layout did not alter. It assumed its current name “Topkapi” – meaning “cannon gate” – in the 1800s. While its importance was unquestioned, the palace’s importance began to diminish in the 19th century when the Sultan moved out to more modern palaces. Only the mint, library and treasury remained, until the overthrow of the Ottoman rule in 1923. Since then, Topkapi has served as a museum, holding valuable treasures and giving visitors a glimpse in to the privileged life of the Ottoman court. With such striking architecture, it remains a true gem in Istanbul.

A sure sign of spring is when the early bulbs start to bloom – daffodils, crocus, hyacinth and tulips. If any place comes to mind at springtime, it must be the Netherlands, with their long history of cultivating bulbs. The crowning jewel in their floral displays take place in Keukenhof gardens: a must see for every gardener! Every year, over seven MILLION bulbs are planted, carpeting the 32 hectare space in bursts of color. Of these, the tulips often take center stage. These fascinating flowers were a controlling market in the Dutch economy (known as “tulip mania”) and while they are no longer more valuable than gold, the Dutch still take great pride in their iconic flower.

An idyllic setting in the English countryside, Hever castle is also a place steeped in English history. The origins of the castle date back to the 1200s. However, the current form owes a great deal to the Tudor age, when the Boleyn family converted the castle into their main residence. It was here that Anne Boleyn, the second King Henry VIII’s many wives, grew up. While Anne’s marriage didn’t end well – she was beheaded in 1536 – Henry VIII kept the castle. Through a succession of owners, by the early 1900s the property had fallen into disrepair. Luckily, it was saved from ruin by William Waldorf Astor, an American millionaire in need of a country retreat. Today, the gardens are once again a delight for all ages, and well worth a stop.