Muslim population in some European countries ‘could triple’ by 2050′

THE Muslim population in countries across Europe could triple by 2050, a report has suggested.

Finland's Muslim population alone could increase by more than four times, while the UK could see an increase of 2.65 times in little more than a decade, according to projections made in the study.

According to one of the medium projections for 2050, 16.7 per cent of the UK population will be Muslim

Around 6.3 per cent of the UK's population is currently Muslim - compared to the percentage of 4.9 across Europe - with the country potentially reaching 17.2 per cent in the high migration scenario, to the Washington-based Pew Forum report suggested.

The report said countries like Germany and Sweden that would see the biggest growth in Muslim population, stating: "Countries that have received relatively large numbers of Muslim refugees in recent years are projected to experience the biggest changes in the high migration scenario."

Under the highest level projections, one in five people in Germany would be Muslim by 2050, Sweden is expected to see almost one in three.

The report examined three scenarios - where migration into Europe was to completely and permanently stop immediately, where all refugee levels would slow but that the migration of those who come for reasons other than seeking asylum would continue, or finally that the flow of refugees into Europe would continue indefinitely.

Top 10 destinations of migrants

United Kingdom - 1,600,000

Germany - 1,350,000

France - 790,000

Italy - 720,000

Sweden - 450,000

Netherlands - 310,000

Switzerland - 280,000

Austria - 240,000

Belgium - 230,000

Spain - 210,000

*Total immigrants to Europe between 2010-2016

Under the projection of high migration, that percentage could be as high as 14 per cent.

Even under the first projection where migration would stop completely, Europe's Muslim population was predicted to grow by 7.4 per cent.

The report identified the UK as the desired destination for a larger number of migrants from outside Europe, with 1.6m people arriving in the country between 2010 and 2016.

It stated: "The UK voted in a 2016 referendum to leave the EU, which may impact immigration patterns in the future."

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But the report noted that to predict future migration levels were ultimately impossible due to the changing economic situation and government policies in Europe.

The report was produced by Pew Research Center as part of the Pew-Templeton Global Religious Futures project, which analyses religious change and its impact on societies around the world.

It was funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts and the John Templeton Foundation.

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Source: Muslim population in some European countries 'could triple' by 2050′

How Europe still conquers in Africa race

        Abidjan. Hard cash but also the intangible ties of history have kept Europe in pole position as Africa's main partner, even if an influx of Chinese investment is prompting many African countries to look eastward.

Successive years of hefty spending, particularly in infrastructure, have propelled China into the continent's top slot when calculated in terms of individual investor nations.

But a quite different picture emerges when this is seen through a broader prism -- the ties between Africa and Europe as a 28-nation bloc.

"Europe is in front, given the shared history," said Pierre Dagbo Gode, professor of political science at the Felix Houphouet Boigny University of Abidjan.

"Europe is the premier trade partner, the top investor, the top donor," a European diplomat in Brussels added, speaking ahead of a summit between the EU and African Union in Abidjan on Wednesday and Thursday.

According to the Chinese ministry of commerce, trade between China and Africa was worth $149.2 billion last year -- $92.3 billion in exports from China, against $56.9 billion of imports.

That made China, for the eighth year, Africa's foremost individual trade partner -- well ahead of France and Germany.

However, trade between the EU and Africa totalled 286 billion euros in 2015 ($341 billion at current rates) with a 22-billion-euro surplus in Europe's favour.

Europe also contributed some 21 billion euros in foreign aid -- more than the United States and China combined.

"When people say Europe has let China overtake it you have to keep things in perspective," said an EU diplomat in Abidjan.

Factors such as language, cultural cooperation, university exchanges, a military presence and aid all help to ensure "Europe remains the point of reference" for Africa, the source said.

Even so, Chinese competition is hotting up.

Beijing's big policy is to mix aid and loans at ultra-low interest rates to muscle in on numerous large-scale projects.

"They have a very aggressive policy, in the good sense of the term, on loans and this seduces states," said one financial observer in the region.

According to China's state-run Xinhua news agency, quoting Fitch Ratings, loans from China to Africa over the past decade amounted to $67.2 billion -- a whole $12.5 billion more than those made by the World Bank.

"The aspects which attract Chinese enterprises to Africa are the development potential, resources and the market," said Xu Tiebing, professor of international relations at the Communication University of China.

"The Chinese government has a South 'complex'. They think that when the South becomes powerful the world will be more balanced," added Xu.

"China thinks perhaps that as two of the world's poles of development (Europe and North America) are already in decline, Africa, Latin America and Asia are becoming the natural destination for Chinese investment.

"In the past, China was more concerned by the political angle, but now ascribes greater importance to common development and to mutual advantage," he said.

A European diplomat commented: "China's presence and engagement in Africa attracts a lot of attention.

How did China get involved in developing an African metropolis that westerners tend to associate with famine and death? And this is just one project among many across the continent.

Since the turn of the century, Chinese firms have built stadiums, highways, airports, schools, hospitals and, in Angola, an entire city that still stands empty.

China has pumped hundreds of billions of dollars into African governments and infrastructure. In return, it has reaped hundreds of billions in commodities. In 2015, it promised an impressive $60 billion in assistance and loans to boost development of the continent as it emerged Africa's largest trade partner, and.

Few in Africa are certain that there is fair quid pro quo at play here. Is this the dawn of a new colonialism, they wonder, a new scramble for Africa in which the continent is once again left in tatters? Or is it the beginning of an era during which Africans shake off old colonial masters and look elsewhere for direct investment and aid?

"But China is not the only one massively gearing up its interests in Africa. Look at Japan, India and the Gulf States. There is a multitude of players."

The so-called BRIC states -- Brazil, India, China and Russia -- have all gained a foothold on the continent.

Bolstered by its African roots and after first concentrating on fellow Portuguese-speaking countries, Brazil has been extending its influence, although its internal political problems have hampered the process.

Brazil-African trade was worth $12.433 billion ($7.830 billion of that made up of Brazilian exports) in 2016 -- but that was well down on the 2013 figure of $28.5 billion.

"With Lula (former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in power 2003-2010), Brazilian-African relations went through a very intensive phase," explained Pio Penna Filho, a professor of international relations at the University of Brasilia.

After Dilma Rousseff (2011-2016) succeeded Lula, Brazil "did not put an end to its African policy but there was a lessening of this intensity," owing to a political crisis sweeping the Latin American giant, he said.

Africa's allure for investors is multifaceted. One attraction is the notion that, in many countries, a middle class is rising, providing a potent market for housing, transport, clothing, education and consumer products.

Coupled with that is demography -- the continent's population is expected to roughly double to 2.5 billion by 2050, according to a UN estimate.

But, as Dagbo notes, there is also an age-old view of Africa as a "raw materials zone", a treasure trove of natural resources that are extracted but not transformed.

As a result, the continent misses out on the added-value part of the processing chain -- the extra margin that boosts prosperity and employment.

"An example: Ivory Coast produces two million tons of cocoa yet processes just 20 percent. This is the kind of thing that has to change," said Dagbo. (AFP)     

Source: How Europe still conquers in Africa race

Soft landings: great destinations for first-time travellers

Nothing beats the rush you get waiting on the tarmac for your flight overseas to roll down the runway. There's the excitement of the unknown, the jitters that come with taking on something new and the anticipation of what's to come.

Whether you've already begun to stretch your travel wings or have yet to take your passport for a spin, taking your first big trip is a rite of passage both life-changing and nerve-inducing. You can't predict what is going to happen once you touch down, but you can ensure a softer landing by choosing the right place to begin your adventure. Here are some of our favourite countries for first-time travellers.

Beach life doesn't get much better than Thailand's exotic isles © Natalia Siiatovskaia / Shutterstock

Thailand

If you want a mix of culture, beach life, wilderness and cuisine, Thailand is calling. You'll most likely land in Bangkok and the zing of Thailand's capital is just a taste of what the country has in store for you. Stroll the frenzied streets of Khao San Road, eat your body weight in pad Thai and explore Bangkok's myriad magnificent temples; then head north for jungle adventures or south for brilliant beaches on paradise isles.

Thailand has a well-established tourism infrastructure making it easy to navigate, yet offers a strong dose of exoticism; perfect for first-timers looking for culture shock with a safety net.

Where to go next: Cambodia is great next stop after tackling Thailand. It offers plenty of those Southeast Asian draws – breathtaking temples, stunning landscapes, lip-smacking cuisine – but with a more off-the-beaten-track feel.

Spot elk amongst Canada's epic wilds © Natalia Siiatovskaia / Shutterstock

Canada

Canadians are renowned for being a friendly bunch – don't be shy, strike up a conversation and you might scoop up some insider tips for the locals along the way. Being such an enormous country, Canada offers a vast range of travel experiences: spot wildlife such as bears, bison, elk and moose in Alberta; catch the Northern Lights in the Northwest Territories; soak up a blend of North American and European city culture in Québec. Best of all, if you want to experience everything Canada has to offer all you need is time, as domestic flight, train and bus connections are plentiful and frequent.

Where to go next: With mountain ranges, desertscapes, bustling cities, cool coastal towns, lost-in-time regions and plenty of ground to cover, the USA is the perfect one-stop shop for a new traveller.

Porto combines European city life with an old-world elegance © Diana Rui / Shutterstock

Portugal

Portugal is a great entry point for Europe: it's safe, inexpensive, easy to get around and relatively less-travelled in comparison to its neighbours, meaning fewer tourists and shorter lines for top-drawer attractions.

Capital city Lisbon and rising star Porto are attracting an increasing number of visitors so you'll find plenty of like-minded travellers here. Start your Portuguese journey in one of these hubs for a taste of quintessential European city life, then head into the countryside for a slower pace and some off-the-beaten-track adventures.

Where to go next: Malta is another European gem perfect for new travellers. It's laid-back, cheap and compact, making exploration a breeze. Plus if you come outside of the summer season, you'll still find beautiful balmy weather without the crowds.

Germany

If road trips are your thing, head for Germany. The highways (known as autobahns) are superb and road users tend to stay in their lanes and drive in an orderly fashion. Note that the speed limit is higher on autobahns compared to motorways in many other countries and everyone drives on the right side of the road, but once you're used to it you'll be whizzing along with the best of them.

If you want to swap the driver's seat in favour of a stein or two along the way, you can easily explore Germany's charming medieval towns, beer scene and buzzing cities via the public transport system – it's simple to use and almost always on time.

Where to go next: Driving is a great way to see Norway's many stunning landscapes. The road infrastructure connects plenty of sights, while car ferries and tunnels that weave in and out of fjords add to that epic road trip experience.

Get an insight into island life with a Fijian cultural show © Nadezda Zavitaeva / Shutterstock

Fiji

Fiji is a great option if you're looking for that paradisiacal Pacific island getaway. Resorts here offer a plethora of options for every type of holidaymaker with couples, families and even solo travellers on a budget well catered for. Resorts are a great way to ease into island life and many offer the opportunity to experience the cultural aspects of Fijian life through song and dance performances. For your fix of wildlife and nature, you need to get in the water – the coral and sea life is astounding.

Where to go next: Cool and breezy Costa Rica has the beautiful beaches and resorts as well as plenty of options for backpackers – and no one leaves without rave reviews of the local wildlife.

The neon-lit streets of Tokyo are an eye-opener for any traveller © Luciano Mortula - LGM / Shutterstock

Japan

Japan is a very safe country to travel around with an efficient and easy-to-use public transport network linking all the main sights. And there are plenty! The ski fields are considered some of the best in the world, the countryside is beautiful, the cities are buzzing (Tokyo is like nowhere else in the world) and the food is… well, pack stretchy pants. Japanese people are exceedingly accommodating, so you'll settle into the swing of this incredible country in no time.

Where to go next: Oman is another otherworldly destination. And while it offers a completely different vibe to Japan, the people are just as friendly and eager to show visitors around their beautiful country.

From middle-of-nowhere wilderness to Middle-earth, New Zealand abounds with incredible adventures © Blue Planet Studio / Shutterstock

New Zealand

New Zealand is a pocket rocket of all things travel, offering an unbeatable array of activities for foodies, culture-lovers and thrill-seekers alike. And thanks to its relatively compact size and brilliant transport links, you can be hiking in spectacular wilderness one minute, hop in a car and be quaffing wines at a local cellar a few hours later, and be in Middle-earth the morning after with a visit to some of the Lord of the Rings film set locations. New Zealand is a popular stop on the Southern Hemisphere traveller's trail so you'll find plenty of other travellers should you find yourself in need of a skydiving, stargazing or oyster-tasting buddy.

Where to go next: New Zealand will have left an impression, so the next stop will need to pack one hell of a punch. With jaw-dropping landscapes, sizzling steaks, wine-tasting, tango classes and dance-till-dawn nightlife, Argentina delivers! It may take considerably longer to get from A to B, but once you get the hang of the transport system, you'll be spoilt for epic experiences.

Source: Soft landings: great destinations for first-time travellers

Growing global demand for Germany as a travel destination

          More and more people are travelling to Germany on business or for pleasure. Since the country's reunification in 1989/90, the number of overnight stays by foreign visitors has well over doubled. In 2016, inbound tourism to Germany notched up record results for the seventh year running, with over 80 million overnight stays.          Working on behalf of the federal government, the German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is responsible for the worldwide marketing of Germany as a travel destination. "As a brand, Destination Germany is very well positioned in the global market," explains Petra Hedorfer, Chief Executive Officer of the GNTB. "The volume of overnight stays by international visitors could increase to a total of 121.5 million by the end of the next decade. A number of high-potential markets in the Asia-Pacific region are likely to generate particularly robust growth. Consequently, we predict that overnight stays from this region will increase from t he current level of around ten million per year to more than 14 million in 2030."Germany's strong image makes it an attractive destination          There are many reasons for the success of Germany's inbound tourism. Germany has an outstanding reputation as a country, economic power and travel destination. It is currently ranked second in the highly respected Anholt GfK Roper Nation Brands Index (NBI), which measures the brand image of 50 countries. Germany has been a continuous presence in the top three of the NBI for the past ten years. The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report, compiled by the World Economic Forum (WEF), puts German tourism in third place in a comparison of 136 countries. As an economic power, Germany is ranked fifth among 140 countries by the WEF.

Excellent position and tourism infrastructure          Germany lies at the heart of Europe, the most visited travel region in the world. The country's commercial airports are served by more th an 100 international airlines, which operate scheduled flights from every continent. Germany's transport infrastructure is also excellent. Frequent express trains and budget coach routes provide comfortable and eco-friendly connections between urban centres, and the close integration of regional and local public transport opens up the entire country. An extensive road and autobahn network ensures journeys are convenient and practical.          Travellers to Germany can choose from a wide range of places to stay, from simple accommodation for backpackers to world-class luxury hotels with exceptional personal service. At EUR93, the average room price in German towns and cities is significantly below that of their European counterparts, where the average price can reach as high as EUR124 (Switzerland).City breaks and culture are popular          Germany is a hospitable country that makes its guests feel very welcome. The urban centres, in particular, are very multic ultural and therefore highly attractive to international tourists.As a shopping destination, Germany benefits from the wide choice and high quality of products. The country generates revenue of EUR1.65 billion from tax-free shopping, giving it a global market share of 10.1 per cent and ranking it fourth among all travel destinations.

Source: Growing global demand for Germany as a travel destination

7 Places In India That Match Up To European Cities For Travel Plans

Raj and Simran fell in love in Switzerland, Ved and Tara found their romance blossom in Corsica, and even Dharam and Shyra made love like free-spirited youngsters in Paris. It's really no wonder that our fascination with Europe is constantly at its peak, especially when it comes to Bollywood.

But in the midst of all the stunning European locations we've been smitten by, we found Rahul and Meenamma fall for each other in the lush green lands of South India, and saw Kabir and Naina discover their thrill for adventure in Manali. Just goes to show that when it comes to gorgeous destinations, our country ranks really high on the list, and all we need to do is remind ourselves of the beauty that is India! Check out the following Indian holiday destinations that resemble Europe in more ways than one!

1. Pondicherry

Closest in comparison: France

From the quaint cafes to the beautiful streets that are tailor-made for cycling and sightseeing, Pondicherry (Puducherry since 2006), is a French colonial settlement and the largest Union Territory of India.

From chic boutiques and coffee shops in every corner to street names and restaurants marked in the French language, this is one destination on your list that you must visit to sample all the cheese and bread you can possibly find!

2. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Closest in comparison: Switzerland

Bollywood movies are probably the best examples you can find of the beauty of Himachal Pradesh that, sometimes, can be just as breathtaking as Switzerland.

Most of the villages and towns that dot the Himachal landscape are laid amongst the rolling green hills, and tucked behind the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas, with cosy houses and comfy establishments around every corner - much like the Swiss Alps!

3. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Closest in comparison: Greek Islands

India's best-known tourist spot, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are no longer treasured secrets of the country but are known to leave you with beautiful memories just the same.

With crystal clear waters, azure skies, prominent diving spots, and renowned beaches with white sands, there's really no asking why this is one of the most popular tourist hubs in India!

4. Nasik, Maharashtra

Closest in comparison: Tuscany

I think this speaks for itself, don't you? Nasik is the Mecca for wine lovers across the country, who religiously take an annual trip to the region when the harvest season is due.

With beautiful weather, scenic vineyard tours, and curated tasting sprees for the tipsy wine enthusiast, Nasik is as European-looking as it can possibly get!

5. Coorg, Karnataka

Closest in comparison: Scotland

There's a reason Coorg is called the Scotland of India, you know. Located at the Southernmost tip of India, the emerald hills of the region are sprinkled with pepper and coffee plantations, that are a visual treat to the eyes, if you should take a trip through the quaint hill station.

With the Madikeri Waterfalls, picturesque backdrops, and misty cool weather resembling the Scottish lands of the north, why leave the country at all?

6. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

Closest in comparison: Iceland

Gurudongmar Lake, the second highest lake in India, which is situated in the Northern region of Sikkim, is known to reach temperatures as chilling as the weather of Jökulsárlón Lake in Iceland.

The lake is sacred to the locals of Sikkim, and while you may need to obtain a special permit to visit the site, rest assured, the beauty of the place is going to take your breath away instantly. The only thing missing, we would say, are the Northern lights!

7. Munnar, Kerala

Closest in comparison: Azores, Portugal

Established as an autonomous region in Portugal, Azores is an archipelago of islands, out of which São Miguel - the largest island - is known for its Gorreana tea plantation, but we're sure it doesn't even hold a candle against the sprawling hills of a different varieties of tea that we can walk through, in 'God's Own Country'.

Munnar is the gorgeous pride of all South Indians alike, and to be honest, it's way more accessible than the Azores could possibly be, to Indians!

So, which holiday destination are you off to, to experience the charm of Europe?

Images: Shutterstock

Source: 7 Places In India That Match Up To European Cities For Travel Plans

5 of the Most Underrated Destinations in Spain

With over 75 million foreign visitors, Spain was the third most visited country in the world in 2016. It's also been ranked the most tourist-friendly country by the World Economic Forum. But let's face it, foreigners mostly flock to the same few cities: Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Those cities are well worth a visit, but there's more to Spain than that -- 17 autonomous communities to be exact. Each one offers a unique experience and some remain relatively untouched by tourists. So if you're looking for something different on your next visit to España, explore the history, beauty, and cuisine of these lesser visited but equally enchanting destinations.

Hernán Piñera/Flickr

This northern region is known best for three things: "mar"(sea), "montañas"(mountains), and "manzanas"(apples). Whether you're looking for a beach vacation, rugged adventure, or city escape, you can find it all in Asturias. As a former kingdom before Fernando and Isabella created Spain, and the heart of the nation's reconquest, it's also teeming with history. In fact, the friendly Asturianos, medieval architecture, and picturesque scenery often make visitors feel like they've stepped into a place unchanged by time. You'll surely want to don your wooden "madreña" clogs, fill up on smoked "fabada asturiana" stew, and jump right in. With its incredible cathedrals, fine art museums, and world-class restaurants, capital Oviedo is the perfect place to start. Despite taking center stage in Woody Allen's "Vicky Cristina Barcelona" and appearing as if its straight from a fairy tale, this city doesn't actually get many tourists. You'll feel an intimate connection despite the city's size.  

You'll also want to devote some time to the defining physical feature of Asturias: the Picos de Europa. It may look like The Alps, but we guarantee this is Spain. Driving through the lush, pristine wilderness, you could catch a glimpse of bears, wolves, and eagles in addition to the snow-capped peaks. You'll also see lots of cows, who you can thank for the region's incomparable cheese like Cabrales, Gamoneu, and Los Beyos. The colorful villages of the wild Costa Verde are worth a stop too, and no where showcases traditional Asturian life better than the artisan workshops of Taramundi. The lengthy seaside promenade and enormous botanical garden in Gijón, historic center of Llanes, and natural caves in Ribadesella should also be on your list. Of course no trip would be complete without drinking lots of Asturian cider poured dramatically from a great height. Be sure you visit a "sideria" in every city, town, or village you see. 

An Upscale Hotel Pick:

Gregorio Puga Bailón/Flickr

Aragon is best known for its intricate Moorish architecture and imposing Pyrenees mountainside. It was once the seat of a powerful kingdom which encompassed much of the Mediterranean coast. You may have heard of Catherine of Aragon, daughter of Ferdinand and Isabella and first wife of Henry VIII. Since the region's power has declined and population dropped, few visitors make the trip. But the natural scenery, historical significance, and bustling cities of Aragon definitely warrant a visit. Capital Zaragoza on the Ebro River is full of religious landmarks and home to the 11th century Aljafería Moorish palace. Its Plaza del Pilar is the perfect place to soak up the region's unique culture -- and some local wine. Even if Aragon isn't as famous a wine producer as Rioja or Ribera del Duero, it has several DOC-certified regions offering cariñena, garnacha, tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon. If you want to visit a wine town while you're near, try the winery- and warehouse-lined stree ts of Cariñena. 

For more small-town wonder, head to Huesca, Aragon's old capital which now acts as the home base for the Romanesque Loarre Castle and ski trips in the Pyrenees Mountains. The partially restored Old Quarter is dominated by an impressive Gothic cathedral and the nearby Miguel Servet Park features a wide range of sculptures and fountains. An hour farther north, Jaca also serves as a great starting point for mountain adventures. For some art history, head to Fuendetodos, where the artist FranciscoGoya was born. His 18th-century home is now open to the public so visitors can get a sense of his early life. All the exploring got you hungry? Traditional Aragonese fare includes trout, rabbit, and locally-raised lamb, but the region's best dish is called "migas." Unlike the tacos of Texas, Spanish migas is made from breadcrumbs, bacon, chorizo, garlic, onion, and paprika and served with grapes.

An Upscale Hotel Pick:

Pegatina1/Flickr

Bordered by Castile y León to the north, Andalusia to the south, and Portugal to the west, Extremadura is the fourth-largest community in Spain, but also the least populated. It takes its name from the word "extremar," which means "to go to extremes." And extremes it is full of -- along with ancient Roman ruins, elegant Gothic monuments, mysterious medieval towns, and dramatic landscapes. The only thing it doesn't have is tourists. Capital Mérida is great for viewing old Roman splendor from theaters and temples to villas and burial grounds, but the real magic awaits in Badajoz and Cáceres. Badajoz with its contemporary art museums and admirable old plazas and Cáceres with its Moorish mansions, Renaissance churches, well preserved medieval walls, and lively students. The Old Town of the latter has even been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its diverse history and architecture. 

Hiking and wildlife enthusiasts won't miss a stop to Monfragüe National Park, which hosts more than 200 species of fauna ranging from boar to lynx and including a wide variety of birds. Heading through the eucalyptus scented plains, visitors should also spend time in Zafra or "little Seville," whose fortress is full of narrow, white streets and delicious tapas bars. Guadalupe's Royal Monastery of Santa María is another spot an Extremadura traveler shouldn't miss. Some consider it a point of pilgrimage, since it's home to the Black Madonna supposedly carved by St. Luke himself. The beautiful town of Trujillo, where Francisco Pizarro lived before he left to conquer the Americas, offers incredible views of the region from its towering castles and churches. Wherever you choose to see, don't leave without a taste of the region's simple but delicious food like cured Serrano ham and Torta del Casar sheep's cheese.

An Upscale Hotel Pick:

Mario Sánchez Prada/Flickr

Galicia may not have endless sunshine or mega metropolises, but the Spanish region due north of Portugal has more than enough natural beauty and inviting people. Though the region has Celtic connections, the language currently spoken is like a marriage between Castellano and Portuguese. The perfect word to describe Galicia is "verde," as the regular rains keep the landscapes lush. The second word that comes to mind is probably seafood as the region produces arguably Spain's best "pulpo" (octopus), "chipirones" (baby squid), and "percebes" (goose barnacles). And local chefs know their way around more than the sea; they also make delicious "raxo" (pork loin and friend potatoes, "bombas" (giant croquettes), and "tarta de Santiago" (almond cake). True Gallegos will wash their meals down with "licor café"(coffee flavored liqueur) or wine from Ribeira Sacra. 

Beyond delicious food and legendary landscapes, Galicia is known to many as the end of a world-famous pilgrimage, the Camino de Santiago. The route ends in Santiago de Compostela, whose cathedral supposedly holds the remains of St. James. Its pedestrian streets and epic plazas make it one of Galicia's best destinations, but its fame also makes it the busiest.For something just off the beaten path, Galician travelers should head northeast to A Coruña, a port city with loads of charm. In addition to the compass rose, Tower of Hercules, and renowned science museum, it's also where Zara started and remains expectedly fashionable. Eager for more? Lugo has incredible Roman walls, Finisterre's views of the Atlantic helped the city earn its title as the end of the world, Vigo maintains a lively fishing culture, Ourense has revitalizing thermal baths, and the northern Praia das Catedrais is full of incredible stone arches and grottos. The dune beaches and sprawling "rías"(estuaries) in b etween all offer worthwhile trips as well. Galicia even has its own group of idyllic islands, the Illas Cíes. 

An Upscale Hotel Pick:

Rocío Garro/Flickr

If you're looking for unspoiled beaches, scroll no further. Murcia, which is sandwiched between Valencia and Andalusia, has over 150 miles of golden sand and crashing waves along its Costa Cálida. And since it has a Mediterranean climate and receives more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, Murcia is a pleasant destination during every season. The hyper-saline water here is also known for therapeutic qualities so spa lovers will rejoice. The whole region has a very laid-back lifestyle, but it comes alive at night. The region's capital, also known as Murcia, is great for a "paseo" (stroll). Commercial streets like Trapería, Platería, and la Avda offer prime window shopping while Paseo del Malecón will make you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. This city is home to some of Spain's best tapas bars, serving inventive dishes made with local market produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables from Murcia are actually shipped all over Europe. If fish is your meal of choice, plan a stop in the fishing town of Águilas. 

Once visitors gets their fill, they should head to one of Murcia's new galleries, museums, or art spaces. They city's grand baroque cathedral and still-used Roman theater are also on the don't miss list. Those itching for some relaxing time in the sun will love La Manga del Mar Menor, while history-loving beachgoers may prefer Cartagena. The Roman remains, city walls, Archeological museum, and Underwater Archeological museum will keep you busy between sunbathing sessions. If aquatic adventure sounds appealing, Los Alcázares is a good spot. For incredible mountain views, travelers should head further to the Moreras range in Mazarrón. There's also the opportunity to learn about the area's mining history inLa Unión. The former Workers' Lyceum, which was built in 1901,  has since transformed into a museum. Visitors can ride a mining train into an old mine. 

An Upscale Hotel Pick:

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Source: 5 of the Most Underrated Destinations in Spain

9 best European retirement destinations

This retirement hot spot showcases sunny weather, good health care, one of Europe's lowest crime rates and incredibly cheap prices.

"Americans think mostly of France, Italy, Ireland, and maybe Spain in Europe," Peddicord said. "They don't usually think of Portugal. For that reason, it's really undervalued."

She also points out the area's similarities to Paris — both share classic style architecture, with big squares and monuments and beautiful parks and gardens. Lisbon, however, is "much, much more affordable," she said.

Source: 9 best European retirement destinations