Set on the Gulf of Hammamet, Monastir’s white-sand beaches, palm-lined promenade, and historical landmarks offer an appealing alternative to coast’s busier resorts. Add in year-round sun, vibrant souks, and a relaxed ambience, and you have one of Tunisia's most inviting destinations.

Sardinia’s largest city (with a little over 150,000 people) and its capital for centuries, Cagliari on the island’s south coast offers the perfect mix of recreation and exploration options. The five-mile-long Poetto Beach is among the best city beaches on the Mediterranean, and together with the adjacent Marina Piccola, satisfies all manner of sun and sea pursuits. Seekers of culture will love Cagliari’s old district, Castello, where 13th-century towers still guard the medieval city walls.

The main city of the northern Tuscan Riviera area of Versilia, Viareggio began as a medieval fishing village, then later gained renown for its shipbuilding. In the mid-19th century, the town was developed as a seaside resort, which it’s been ever since. Today, the city is loved for its long beaches, pine woods, great shopping and lively nightlife. It’s also home to the famous carnival of Viareggio, dating back to the late 19th century and one of Europe’s most important carnival events.

As Belgium’s largest coastal outpost, Ostend offers a rare taste of Flemish beach culture. Inland visitors flock to sandy beaches and the seaside promenade, while reminders of the city’s military and maritime history run deep in the old harbour town.

This port city of about 275,000 on Spain’s north coast began 3,000 years ago as a fishing village. Today it’s a departure point for regional cruises, making it busy in summer (and making us wonder what those ancient fisherman would have thought of cruise ships). The original village, Cimadevilla, with its narrow, cobblestone streets, draws many tourists, and Cerro de Santa Catalina park at the tip of Cimadevilla’s peninsula provides great coastal views.

Forested hills, romantic white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters greet visitors to tropical Palau Langkawi, the largest of the 99 islands in Langkawi archipelago. Known mysteriously as "Legendary Island" because of myths associated with its ancient geological formations, it drifts serenely alongside Malaysia in the azure Andaman Sea. Sample local cuisine at the night markets, hike to dramatic waterfalls or dive into an underwater marine park to take a guided glimpse at life beneath the sea.

Looking out over the city of St. John's, you may be reminded of a mini San Francisco (minus the cable cars). St. John's provides the ideal balance between nature and nightlife, from the East Coast Trail and its stunning scenery to the colourful entertainment district along George Street. Although it's the largest city in Newfoundland, the vibe is still very small-town. You'll feel welcome in the City of Legends!