MEDD

Eastern Mediterranean- Greece, Black Sea, Turkey, Israel, Egypt

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mediterranean

Monemvasia

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Historic and romantic, the medieval town of Monemvasia is situated on the island nicknamed the “Gibraltar of the East,” an enormous hunk of rock rising from the sea and creating a natural fortress for its inhabitants. Only a single causeway links Monemvasia with the mainland, and visitors must leave cars behind to explore the walled town carved into the cliffside. Ancient stone houses with terracotta rooftops look out over the crystal blue waters and mountains beyond. There are six museums and many churches, including Agia Sophia, among the oldest Byzantine churches in Greece.

Cartagena, Spain

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Founded by Carthaginians circa 220 BC, Cartagena has one of the world's oldest naval bases and a wealth of Roman archaeology. The 1st-century Roman theater was only unearthed a few decades ago, and discoveries are ongoing, including an entire town block dating to Roman times called the Barrio del Foro Romano. Likewise of interest are the Casa de la Fortuna – a house with Roman murals, mosaics and excavated objects – and the Punic Wall Interpretation Center displaying remains of a 3rd century defensive wall.

Monte Carlo

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Perhaps no port of call is better designed to welcome a luxury yacht than Monte Carlo, where some of the most splendid vessels in the world make their home. At this playground for the rich and famous, the only thing more spectacular than the yachts filling the harbor are the luxury cars driving the winding streets that host the annual Grand Prix. Verdant mountains ascend abruptly behind the lavish high-rises lining the bay, and perched on the cliff is the Palace of the Prince, where the Changing of the Guard attracts onlookers each morning at 11:55.

Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands

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The capital of the Balearic Islands, beautiful Palma is famous for La Seu, the massive Cathedral of Santa Maria overlooking the bay. The adjacent Alumdaina Palace has been a royal residence since the 14th century, and the Gothic-style Bellver Castle houses the city's history museum. The Juan March Foundation Museum boasts a permanent collection of 70 works by the most important Spanish vanguard artists of the 20th century.

Cannes, France

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Famous worldwide for its annual Cannes Film Festival, this French Riviera resort town attracts the rich and famous to its beaches and sophisticated scene. The Promenade de la Croisette is the place to see and be seen. This broad pedestrian walkway along the beach is lined with designer boutiques, grand hotels and fancy restaurants. So famous is La Croisette, that many miss the other side of Cannes. Tucked up in the hills is Le Suquet, the historic quarter. Wander along its cobblestone streets and enjoy views of the city below.

Porto Rotondo, Sardinia

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Named for its round harbor, Porto Rotondo is a resort town on the Costa Smeralda. While a little quieter than Porto Cervo to the north, the town is no less beautiful and appealing. Some of the most idyllic beaches in this port are obscured by large boulders, so discovering them is an adventure in itself. The unassuming village behind the port has attractive outdoor cafés, restaurants and clubs situated on a pleasant town square. For a taste of rural Sardinia, visit the nearby town of San Pantaleo. Long a haven for artists and writers, it has a bohemian vibe and a gorgeous setting.

Portofino

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This postcard-perfect destination, with its pastel-colored houses encircling the port, may be one of the most photographed in all of Italy. If you can take your eyes off the scenery, there is much to explore in and around Portofino. The 12th-century Church of St. George and the medieval Castello Brown both afford spectacular views of the harbor. A long, scenic hike or a short boat ride takes you to the restored 11th-century abbey in San Fruttuoso. Northwest of Portofino lies Genoa, filled with museums, palaces and the grand Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

Porto-Vecchio, Corsica

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The large island of Corsica rests enticingly between the French Riviera, Sardinia and Tuscany. This French playground has it all – hilltop villages, unspoiled beaches, rugged mountain scenery, dense forests, a dramatic coastline and thousands of years of history. Situated on the island’s western coast, Porto-Vecchio is Corsica’s St. Tropez, a city of luxury yachts, fashion shoots, nightclubs and some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches. For an entirely different experience, travel inland to the mountainous region with its gorges, rivers and waterfalls.

Calvi, Corsica, France

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With growing popularity as a beach resort, this small town on the northwest coast of Corsica is a delight to visit. Walk along the lively beachside promenade where you’ll find restaurants, bars and shops. A 15th-century citadel built by the Genoese takes its place of prominence on the hilltop above the town, affording spectacular views of the harbor below. Visit Église Sainte-Marie, a charming pink church, and Notre Dame de la Serra, a 19th-century chapel. You’ll see a plaque that commemorates the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, but the claim is controversial.

Roses

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With it's tranquil blue waters, 28 miles of beaches and some nine miles of coves, the Bay of Roses has been ranked one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Tempted by this harbor, the Greeks came in the 5th century BC to set up a commercial village. Various settlement remains can still be seen, including the monastery of Santa Maria. Other top sights include the 16th-century Castell de la Trinitat and the Dolmen de la Creu d’en Cobertella, the largest megalithic monument in Catalonia.