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Transylvania – a place of spooky legends and mesmerizing sites. Discover the best places to visit and be swept up in the living fairytale of one of Europe’s most mysterious regions.
Transylvania has long occupied the darker recesses of human imagination. Its fog-draped mountains and medieval castles inspired gothic novelist Bram Stoker, which resulted in the creation of his greatest villain, Count Dracula. His famous literary work caused an influx of tourism into this time-forgotten part of the world. However, travelers who explore Transylvania’s stirring landscapes discover more than just shadowy folklore.
After enduring a long and bloody tug of war, Transylvania is now made up of a tapestry of cultures. Admire the shimmering Hungarian murals adorning the walls of the Targu Mures Cultural Palace. Roam among the crumbling ruins of Rasnov Fortress, where the Teutonic Knights defended against Turkish and Tartar invasion. And of course, wander the dark passageways and windswept ramparts of Bran Castle, Stoker’s inspiration for Dracula’s clifftop lair.
Whatever your pace, a vacation to Transylvania will be sure to leave you completely captivated with this part of Eastern Europe.
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Perth – The gem of Australia’s west coast and the capital of Western Australia. This friendly metropolis boasts pristine beaches, clear water, and plenty of coastline – not to mention an abundance of nature and mineral resources. Start your Perth vacation with a walk through Kings Park, which is larger than New York’s Central Park and home to the Western Australia Botanic Garden. More than 3,000 species of Western Australia’s plant life, including vibrant flowers, are on display here.
Head to the Swan Bell Tower to enjoy a spectacular view of the city. Enjoy Perth’s architecture, from the modern glass structures and London-inspired Tudor buildings. Take a ferry ride to Rottnest Island, called “Rotto” by the locals. Snorkel in the Indian Ocean, see wildlife such as seals and birds, and travel across more than 31 miles of cycleways on a rented bicycle.
Don’t miss Swan Valley. This region is peppered with vineyards. Growing grapes has been a long-standing tradition in here. Visit Hillarys Boat Harbour for a sunset dinner.