Not Only Sun and Sea: Luxury Destinations With Lots Of History

Nothing infuses personality into a vacation like soaking up some of the local lore! Check out these four hotspots for an unbeatable mix of fun, beauty, and history at its finest. 

Crete

From idyllic shores to rugged mountains that contrast beautifully with the blue sky and clear Mediterranean waters, this Greek island is awash in personality! Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and the most scenically diverse; beachcombers will revel in the white sand shores while those seeking adventure can trek through any of the island's mountains and valleys.

Due to its location between Athens and Constantinople––two cradles of ancient civilization––Crete is an incredible hotbed of history! Visit the city of Knossos, legendary home of King Minos and the fearsome Minotaur, explore the fortified island of Spinalonga, take in classical Arcadian ruins at Gortyn, and so much more. 

Whatever your preference, Crete has a wide variety of hotels and villas designed to accommodate all tastes. Don't forget to sample some of the amazing local cuisine (snails, anyone?), washed down with a shot of raki, the favorite Cretan spirit.

Paris

Ah, Paris. The City of Light, epicenter of romance and effortless sophistication. With its well-earned reputation as an international leader in art, science, fashion, food, and design, the whole city is a feast for the senses. 

The first thing that comes to mind about Paris is, of course, the Eiffel Tower, but the most popular attraction in the city is the Norte Dame Cathedral, while museum lovers will find nirvana in any of the city’s 130 museums. The Louvre is world famous for its art and antiquities collections but beware––many visitors only go to see the Mona Lisa and then leave. We highly recommend taking your time and soaking up all the museum’s eight departments have to offer.

Of course, no trip to Paris is complete without some unforgettable meals, and the city’s many neighborhoods have something for everyone! The 11^th Arrondissement district in the city’s northeast is away from the tourist traps and home to some of the tastiest and most innovative cooking the city has to offer. 

Tuscany

There’s no denying all of Italy is incredible, but the central region of Tuscany might just take the top prize. The spectacular scenery ranges from nature preserves and lush farmland that has inspired artists and philosophers for centuries, to hotbeds of historical importance like the region’s capital Florence, the city esteemed as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Seven UNESCO World Heritage sites call Tuscany home, including the idyllic Val d’Orica landscape and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. 

It’s impossible to visit Florence without soaking up some of Tuscany’s rich heritage. You’ll be surrounded by stunning architecture like the Florence Cathedral and the Palazzo Vecchio, the "Old Palace" town hall. Wine lovers will find their own special paradise sipping Chianti at the many local restaurants, while shoppers will enjoy the luxury and variety on offer at Via Tornabuoni street in the city center.

Indonesia

This southeast Asian island nation is a natural stunner wherever you go! As home to hundreds of ethnic groups spread across the island's 17,000 islands, it's easy to see why Indonesia's motto is "Unity In Diversity." The country's culture has been shaped not only by the wide range of people, but also by its colonial history and importance as a trade center.

Indonesia's capital Jakarta on the island of Java is an important modern city as well as an architecture lover's dream. The Old Town (called Kota Tua Jakarta) was once the Dutch East India Company's headquarters and showcases some truly stunning colonial buildings, many of which are undergoing preservation efforts. Elsewhere on Java you can explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like the 9th-century Prambanan Hindu temple and the Borobudur Buddhist temple, built during the same period. 

Those seeking sun and relaxation will love the island of Bali. The beaches at Kuta and Sanur (known as "Sunset" and "Sunrise") are renowned for their beauty: rent a bungalow, join a local yoga retreat, and feel your cares melt away. The island is also home to numerous temples and points of cultural interest, all flanked by stunning tropical landscapes. 

A quality vacation doesn’t have to be all flash and no substance! Fortunately for travelers, the world is full of fascinating places chock full of charm with the history to match. 

About the author

Pedro Zapata has been in luxury hospitality for the past 25 years.  During his career, he has been part of luxury brands such as Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Trump International, Exclusive Resorts, and the Bentley Group.  Today he is one of the founders of Eterno Escapes, a luxury vacation rental company.  He is the proud father of 3 beautiful children, Leonardo, Allegra, and Micaela.

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