region

Phuket, the "Pearl of the Andaman," is an energetic island paradise that captivates with its stunning beaches, vivid culture, and exciting activities. The island is a melting pot, with influences from Thai, Chinese, Malay, and Peranakan communities, creating a unique blend that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. A favorite for visitors is the Big Buddha, a towering statue that offers panoramic views of the island, and the historic Old Town, with its charming Sino-Portuguese architecture and bustling markets.

Mere mention of the city of Liverpool conjures images of the Fab Four. With its massive collection of memorabilia, The Beatles Story is the centerpiece of the superbly restored Royal Albert Dock, where you’ll also find other fascinating attractions like the prestigious Tate Liverpool galleries and the poignant International Slavery Museum. Soccer fanatics won’t miss the chance to tour Anfield Stadium, home of the Liverpool Football Club.

Wild, rugged and undeniably beautiful, the Shetland Islands capital of Lerwick is an unspoiled destination as rewarding as it is remote. More than 5,000 years of island history are on display at the Shetland Museum, and 17th-century Fort Charlotte offers an excellent bird’s-eye view of the town. The Shetlands typically catch more fish than the entirety of England, Wales and Northern Ireland combined, making this industry the heartbeat of Lerwick. Be sure to try some fresh cod, haddock or mackerel at a local eatery, and roasted lamb and mutton soup are popular dishes as well.

Kirkwall is the largest town on the Orkney Islands, a Scottish archipelago inhabited for more than 5,000 years. Dominating the skyline, 12th-century St. Magnus Cathedral is a magnificent red-brick structure with a tower that provides phenomenal views of the harbor, and nearby you’ll find ruins of the 12th-century Bishop’s Palace and 17th-century Earl’s Palace. The Orkney Museum offers a fascinating look at the islands’ millennia of history, from the Stone Age to modern times, while prehistoric remnants of the past still stand in place today at the nearby settlement of Skara Brae.

With a population of just under 12,000 Welsh souls, Holyhead is the largest town on the island of Anglesey. This unassuming seaside town has a number of interesting attractions, including a maritime museum and a 4th-century Roman fort, and is known for its excellent fishing, golfing and sailing. An invigorating hike to the South Stack Lighthouse is rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Welsh coastline and across the Irish Sea.

Nestled along the famously scenic shores of Spain’s Costa del Sol, the fashionable town of Marbella is a seaside resort with the stunning Sierra Blanca mountain range for a backdrop.