Bypass the big cities in favour of some small-town charm. All around the globe, there are lots of small towns with an old-school atmosphere, incredible landscape, and an array of activities for visitors...
28. TULBAGH, WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA
Located in a fertile, serene, wine-producing valley and bordered by mountains on three sides. The first farmers settled here in 1700 – which makes it one of South Africa’s oldest towns. Visitors will find in Church Street the highest concentration of national monuments in the country. The nearby Matroosberg reserve is known for its snowfall during winter and Saronsberg Wine Estate produces some of South Africa’s best wines.
29. ESSAOUIRA, MOROCCO
Dating back to the 18th century, the town has a ancient medina and lustrous fortifications, miles of stunning beaches, and a charming harbour and fish market to stroll around.The town guarantees moments of peace and tranquility far away from the mayhem of bigger cities and the charmless all-inclusive resorts of Morocco. It is the perfect spot to windsurf and kitesurf due to strong wind and currents. It is not only a picturesque coastal town, it is also a watersport lovers paradise.
30. DJENNE, MALI
Dating back to 250 BC, the town is one of the oldest in the country. It is a fascinating and beautiful place with mud-brick houses and mosques. The Grand Mosque – the larges and most creative mud-made building in the world, lies in town.With its magnificent mud-made sights, this is certainly a unique holiday destination.
31. STONE TOWN, TANZANIA
Right off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean lies the island of Zanzibar. A combination of a fascinating and rich history, beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, and Stone Town is the town cultural heart. The extravagant houses with carved wooden doors, the Sultan’s palace, winding alleys, narrow streets, and animated bazaars a place to visit. The Swahili coastal trading town is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
32. BAHIR DAR, ETHIOPIA
Located on the shores of Lake Tana, the city is home to some of the oldest monasteries and churches in the world. Wide streets with lines of palm trees and stunning river views make up Bahir Dar’s landscape. The Blue Nile Falls are also one of the most spectacular sights to see in Ethiopia and are only a short distance away from Bahir Dar. There are many boat tours available to travellers.
33. STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO
Named for its famous hot springs, the town is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure junkies. Fishing, hiking and camping are popular things to do in the summer as well as unwinding in Strawberry Park Hot Springs’ mineral pools. Winter months are ideal for snowshoeing, ice skating and snowmobiling. Start with a ride on the Steamboat Gondola for panoramic views. Visitors can also visit the art galleries and the Tread of Pioneers Museum.
34. POPEYE VILLAGE, MALTA
The beautiful village is a vamped up ’80 movies set. It was abandoned not long after the filming of the 1980 musical Popeye. The village is now home to quaint, colorful clusters of wooden buildings, a company of actors and an array of fun activities to do. You can watch shows, go on boat rides, explore the village, visit museums or go wine tasting while the kids romp at the playhouses.
35. CUA VAN, VIETNAMIt is not only Charming and enchanting, it is also famous for its natural beauty. Located along Ha Long Bay, the fishing village is believed to be the most popular spot for fishing.It is situated on an emerald green bay surrounded by mountains and is home to beautiful and exotic marine life, caves and grottoes perfect for exploring, and a vibrant village culture.
