South France and Switzerland and Italy

About the destination: Marseille is the second biggest city in France, the largest port on the Mediterranean, and the economic center of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Marseille is situated in a stunning location, nestled between rugged limestone hills and a vast bay, and is steeped in history, which wasn't always pleasant. Marseille is a favored vacation spot, boasting 300 days of sunshine annually. Today, Marseille still retains remnants of its turbulent past, this ancient city is now very vibrant and appealing. It possesses a potent allure that invites visitors to wander through its old neighborhoods around the Old Port, in the gardens with the ancient ruins or the gardens of Longchamp Palace and, of course, on the esplanade of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Cathedral, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city. Marseille is atmospheric and captivating, making it an absolute must-visit.

About the destination: Once a small fishing village, Cannes is now a glamorous and expensive seaside town considered to be one of the social hubs of Europe. Its moment to shine arrives in May as the venue for the Cannes Film Festival, entertaining the rich and famous. During the festival, fans can see actors, celebrities, and directors up close and in person on the famous steps of the Palais des Festivals at the end of La Croisette. Although its nightlife, casinos and high end restaurants give Cannes a feel of exclusivity, Cannes does have alternatives to suit all types of budgets. Tourists can check out the beauty and architecture of Le Suquet, with its cobbled streets and breathtaking views, or sit at street side tables and enjoy the favoured hobby of people watching up and down the lovely marina.

About the destination: Annecy, located in the northern part of the French Alps, is often referred to as the "Venice of Savoie" in the tourism industry. The medieval town center, built around a 14th-century chateau, is crisscrossed by small canals and streams that flow from Lac Annecy, which is known for its clean, fresh, and beautifully azure waters. Annecy also serves as the prefecture of the Haute-Savoie department. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS Annecy Castle This restored castle overlooks the old French town of Annecy in the Haute-Savoie department. The town purchased the castle, restored it, and converted it into a museum. The French Ministry of Culture has listed the castle as a historic monument. The castle was constructed between the 12th and 16th centuries. Palais de l’Isle This is perhaps the most iconic image of Annecy. The Palais de l’Isle, a whimsically turreted structure from the 12th century, sits on a triangular islet surrounded by the Canal du Thiou. Over the centuries, it has served as a noble residence, courthouse, and prison. Today, it is Annecy's most visible landmark and hosts exhibits on local architecture and history.

About the destination: The city of Geneva, with a population of 200,000 residents, is one of the largest cities in Switzerland. It serves as the capital of the canton and is located on Lac Leman, also known as Lake Geneva. The city is divided by the Rhône River, which flows from the lake. Geneva is a beautiful and enchanting city with numerous bridges. The Gothic St-Pierre Cathedral towers over the vieille ville, or old town, of Geneva, which is characterized by narrow, winding streets and houses adorned with flowers. For a breathtaking view of the old town, climb the north tower. Most of the city's museums are located in the vieille ville. The Musée d’Art et d’Histoire is known for its diverse exhibits, ranging from ancient Greek vases to Dadaism art. The Petit Palais is home to a wonderful collection of modern art housed in a cozy 19th-century palace. The lakefront of Geneva is stunning, with the daring Jet d'Eau, one of the tallest fountains in the world. Don't miss the well-groomed Jardin Anglais with its famous Horloge Fleurie, a large clock decorated with flowers, built in tribute to Geneva's clock industry. Geneva continues to be an international city, embodying Swiss neutrality that has welcomed diverse visitors like Lenin and Borges. Today, diplomats and executives of countless corporations occupy Geneva's offices, though rarely its immaculate streets. Calm and scenic, Geneva is the most delightful city in Switzerland.

About the destination: Interlaken is a town and municipality in the Interlaken-Oberhasli administrative district in the Swiss canton of Bern. It is a significant and renowned tourist destination in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps, and the primary transportation hub to the mountains and lakes of that region. The town is situated on the Bödeli, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and alongside the Aare river that flows between the two lakes. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • The Höheweg is Interlaken's main street which runs between Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost Railway Stations. Take a look at the "Japanese Garden", the 150-year old Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel, and don't miss the stunning view of the famous snow-covered Jungfrau mountain from "Höhematte". • Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn is a glaciated UNESCO World Heritage Site above Interlaken in the Bernese Alps. • Unterseen. Unterseen is a quaint old town near the Interlaken West train station.

About the destination: Como is a city and municipality in Lombardy, Italy. It serves as the administrative capital of the Province of Como. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Volta Lighthouse. Offering some of the best views of the lake, this towering structure allows you to gaze down at the lake from a height of about 2000 feet. • Cathedral. • Tempio Voltiano. A pleasant stop on your walk along the waterfront, this temple dedicated to Volta is designed in a neoclassical style. • War Memorial. • City Walls. The remnants of the 12th-century city walls, which surround the narrow, winding streets of the old town. • Isola Comacina. A small island featuring the ruins of several Byzantine churches.

About the destination: With an almost Northern European ambiance, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. This capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - a powerhouse in sectors ranging from finance to fashion, and of course, football. However, what sets Milan apart is its standing as the hub of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels, and paparazzi flock to the city biannually for its spring and fall fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama, and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. Undoubtedly, it's one of the best places in Italy for shopping, or even just window shopping. As Italy's primary industrial, commercial, and financial center, Milan unsurprisingly has a business-like demeanor. At first glance, it may not seem impressive, but if you take the time and make an effort to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle, and you'll find impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the trendy Brera district and vibrant university quarter, not to mention a landmark like the Duomo, or the fact that the city proudly houses Leonardo da Vinci's 15th-century masterpiece, The Last Supper. Milan leaves no room for criticism when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife usually begins at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo, where locals relax with after-work drinks and snacks before heading home, is more the norm than the exception. So, whether you’re in search of affordable fashion, an alternative city getaway, or an opportunity to paint the town red, Milan undoubtedly has it all.