Kalymnos, Greece
Kalymnos has only recently opened itself to tourism. Sponge diving was the historical core of the island's economy. Sponge crops are now devastated by a disease, but the customs and traditions of sponge fishing are still very alive. This island has all of the picturesque beauty of the Greek islands and none of the blandness of a tourist trap.
Spectacular rock climbing is one of the strongest attractions of Kalymnos. If you like to climb or watch others climb, then this island may be a paradise for you.
Tallinn, Estonia
The capital city of Estonia is unknown to most foreigners. Tallinn is both a stunningly preserved medieval town and has been named one of the top 10 digital cities in the world. Wander the cobbled streets between castles, churches, and red-tile roofed houses. Visit the Old Town with its intact stone walls.
Tallinn, with its population of 416,000, holds both old merchant houses and a booming information technology sector. It may be wise to pay a visit to the church spires and medieval castles of the Silicon Valley of the Baltic Sea before the tourist hordes arrive.
Siena, Italy
It is easy to miss Siena as a vacation destination. Many other Italian cities have a higher profile. The wise traveler who heads to Siena instead will be amply rewarded.
Siena was once a capital city, as well known as Rome or Venice is today. Well-preserved architecture and living traditions date back to the 13th century. The Palio horse races are held twice every summer. Spectacular palazzos and piazzas are available to the sightseer. It is probably best to plan to visit in the summer to catch the Palio races and see the city in glorious sunlight. Remember to try the Tuscan wine.
Formentera, Spain
Do you want to visit a beautiful Spanish island with a relaxing atmosphere? If Ibiza is a little too heavy on the partying for you then you may prefer Formentera.
Endless white beaches and sparkling blue water will help you relax in the sun. The adventurous may even want to wade to the neighboring small island of Espalmador, which is possible at low tide. Nude sunbathing is allowed on most beaches.
Elba, Italy
Perhaps an Italian island is more to your liking than a Spanish or Greek one? Elba holds an amazing amount of diversity for a small island. Ancient castles, fishing villages, towns, beaches, high cliffs, and of course the blue-green sea are all to be found on Elba. Mount Capanne is a two-hour ascent, from which you can see the mainland and neighboring islands.
Additionaly, Elba has the historical significance of being the location of Napoleon's brief exile in 1814. He escaped less than nine months later.
